November 23, 2004 > Bicycle Master Plan

by Florence Ion

The city of Fremont is proud to announce that the Bicycle Pedestrian Program is in progress. The program will offer routes around Fremont to help bicyclists reach destinations inside and outside the city. Not only is it great exercise, but it will also reduce traffic in Fremont for commuters who work near their homes, and, help the environment. The lanes will serve to provide a safer commute for those who already ride their bikes to work.

The core objective behind the BPP is to "provide bicyclists and pedestrians with safe and accessible routes to all destinations within and outside the city, which are served by public roads, trails, transit, and rail. The bike paths will connect Fremont, Union City and Newark. Rene Dalton, associate transportation engineer for the city of Fremont, said the reasoning behind the project is that, "We want to develop routes on major streets and close gap with bicycle stations." There is already an existing bicycle route connecting the three cities. However, this project will expand the route, allowing more accessibility throughout the Tri City area.

The project was voted on and approved by the citizens of Fremont in 2000, under Measure B. Construction of the additions started last August. The program received great feedback. Dalton exclaimed that "people were pleased that the city is developing a plan" to help them get around the area. The route is not only for those commuting to work, but also for those who'd rather walk than drive. The program will also promote bicycling and pedestrian safety, as well as accessibility for the elderly and disabled. Construction is scheduled to finish in April 2005.

More information about the program, including a route map, please visit their website at http://www.ci.fremont.ca.us under "Bicycle Survey."