The Bicycling and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) is marking its evolution since its establishment in 2003, with a renewed focus on enhancing community engagement in Santa Fe. Originally known as the Bicycle and Trails Advisory Committee, BPAC underwent a name change in 2021 to better reflect its mission, which now includes a broader emphasis on pedestrian issues alongside cycling.
During the recent meeting, committee members discussed the organizational structure that supports BPAC's initiatives. The Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments play pivotal roles, with the engineering division overseeing key areas such as roadways and trails, traffic engineering, and drainage engineering. Notably, BPAC serves specifically as the advisory committee for roadways and trails, ensuring that cycling and pedestrian needs are prioritized in city planning.
Support staff from various divisions, including the roadways and trails staff and the Parks Division director, have been integral to BPAC's operations. Their involvement, along with contributions from the Santa Fe Metropolitan Planning Organization (SFMPO) and other stakeholders, underscores a collaborative approach to improving infrastructure for non-motorized transportation.
As BPAC continues to evolve, its commitment to fostering safer and more accessible pathways for cyclists and pedestrians remains a top priority, promising to enhance the quality of life in Santa Fe. The committee's ongoing discussions and initiatives are expected to lead to significant improvements in the community's transportation landscape.