During a recent government meeting in Leland, planning intern Katie Livingston presented a comprehensive analysis aimed at enhancing bicycle infrastructure in the town. The discussion was prompted by community concerns regarding the lack of safe cycling facilities, with a survey indicating that 70% of residents believe improvements are necessary.

Livingston outlined four potential policy alternatives to improve bikeability, ranging from maintaining the current status quo—which offers minimal bike lanes—to more progressive options involving painted bike lanes and protective measures like armadillo buffers or concrete medians. The analysis included a cost breakdown for each option, with the most feasible being the addition of painted bike lanes at an estimated cost of $18,500 for two key collector roads, Shelmore Way and Cape Fear National Drive.

The proposed painted bike lanes would not only enhance safety for cyclists but also encourage more residents to consider biking as a viable transportation option. The analysis showed a high probability of political support for this option, scoring 92% on the PRINT scorecard, which assesses the likelihood of policy implementation based on various factors.

In addition to the painted lanes, Livingston discussed the potential for armadillo buffers—low, mountable barriers designed to separate bike lanes from vehicle traffic. However, the cost for implementing these buffers could range from $71,000 to $142,500, which may pose challenges for funding.

The meeting also highlighted the need for a more comprehensive approach to Leland's bike and pedestrian infrastructure, with some board members suggesting that funds might be better allocated to completing existing pathways rather than introducing new, costly features. The discussion concluded with a call for updated surveys to gauge current resident sentiments and the exploration of grant opportunities to support these initiatives.

Overall, the meeting underscored a growing recognition of the importance of cycling infrastructure in promoting safe and accessible transportation options within the community.