The recent BPAC Committee Meeting held on September 11 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, focused on critical infrastructure developments, particularly concerning the Saint Michael's Road project and the integration of Complete Streets guidelines into city planning.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the proposed road diet for Saint Michael's, which aims to enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. The project will specifically address the section from Cerritos to Pacheco, with plans to coordinate with the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) on improvements at the Saint Michael's and Saint Francis interchange. This includes the potential for elevated bike lanes and sidewalk-level bike paths, which are essential for promoting alternative transportation methods in the city.

Committee members expressed a desire for more visual aids, such as axonometric drawings and preliminary designs, to better understand the proposed changes and their implications for pedestrian and cyclist access. This request highlights the committee's commitment to ensuring that community feedback is integrated into the planning process.

In addition to the road diet discussion, the committee explored funding opportunities for bike racks, with a member suggesting the use of a $10,000 budget typically allocated for travel. This initiative aims to install bike racks at identified locations, further supporting the city’s efforts to promote cycling as a viable transportation option.

The meeting also acknowledged the leadership of committee member Romella, who played a pivotal role in securing funding for the Saint Michael's project. Her efforts were recognized as instrumental in overcoming obstacles to obtain the necessary grants.

Another key topic was the integration of the Complete Streets manual into the city's land use code. This manual is designed to provide clear specifications for developers, ensuring that new developments align with the city’s transportation and accessibility goals. The manual will serve as a living document, allowing city traffic engineers to update it as needed, thereby streamlining the development review process.

Overall, the BPAC Committee Meeting underscored the importance of collaborative planning and community involvement in shaping Santa Fe's transportation infrastructure. As the city moves forward with these projects, the emphasis on pedestrian and cyclist safety will likely play a crucial role in enhancing the overall livability of the area. The committee plans to reconvene to review additional designs and continue discussions on these vital initiatives.