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Planning committee advances federally backed Franklin Street cycle track project; CHIPS to fund local share
Summary
The planning committee reviewed the Franklin Street cycle track project, discussed federal reimbursement (95%) and CHIPS funding for the local share, and noted the project will connect park trails to the Empire State Trail; design and e-bike regulation issues were raised.
The Planning Committee on June 16 discussed the Franklin Street cycle track project, including funding, alignment and how it will fit into the broader park-to-trail connector plan.
"This is a federal project, so it's 95% reimbursement to the city," said a planning presenter during the meeting, noting the local share will be paid with CHIPS funding approved in the state budget.
Staff described the cycle track as a fully separated two-way facility on a wide section of Franklin Street that will be curb-separated from cars and pedestrians. The project is intended to help complete an off‑road connection from Central Park to the Empire State Trail by linking the Vail Trail connector at Clinton Street to the Empire State Trail at Jay and Union; staff said additional work will be required on the final blocks near City Hall and the Green Market.
Committee members raised operational and regulatory questions including whether the city should specify speed limits or other rules for different classes of e‑bikes because some electric bicycles are essentially small motorcycles while others provide only pedal assist. Staff also said the project will include a dedicated bike signal at a crossing.
The agenda listed an award of bid and contract for the Franklin Street cycle track to Harbor Construction; the meeting record shows staff presented the project and funding details for committee review.
