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Planning commission debates sidewalks, bike facilities and connectivity in Saint Mary\'s 2050 transportation chapter
Summary
At the Dec. 1 work session the Planning Commission reviewed the transportation chapter of the draft Saint Mary\'s 2050 plan, debating mandatory sidewalk and interparcel-connection policies, new bicycle facility standards and the role of MPO studies such as an FDR Boulevard analysis.
The St. Mary’s County Planning Commission spent the bulk of its Dec. 1 work session reviewing the transportation chapter of the draft Saint Mary’s 2050 comprehensive plan, concentrating on pedestrian networks, sidewalks, bicycling facilities and policies to improve interparcel connectivity.
Jessica Andritz, director of the Department of Land Use and Growth Management, highlighted new and carry-forward policies and said the chapter begins with a target to "ensure a safe and complete pedestrian network." The draft lists several specific policies, including a proposed policy to "require sidewalks for new development," language that prompted extended discussion among commissioners about scope and cost.
Commissioners pressed staff for clarity about where sidewalks would be required. Several members supported a requirement in denser areas but opposed a blanket mandate in rural subdivisions. As one commissioner noted, the…
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