Construction on the I-86 Veterans Memorial Bridge is underway. However, if the mayor of Bemus Point and the County Executive have their way it would include a bike path and or pedestrian walkway added to it.
Submitted photo
BEMUS POINT – Bemus Point officials are supporting the construction of a bike path and walkway on the Veterans Memorial Bridge across Chautauqua Lake.
The mayor of Bemus Point has long-been a supporter of adding a bike path or pedestrian walkway to the bridge that takes up a partial residency in his village.
“I’ve long wanted to see a bike pathway or pedestrian walkway on the I-86 bridge,” said Jeff Molnar. “I can envision people from the Chautauqua Institution riding their bikes into town, grabbing lunch then taking the fairy back to their side of the lake.”
At a Bemus Point Village Board meeting this week, Molnar briefed the village trustees on his desire to apply for grant money to make this vision a reality.
“I’d like to apply for the Federal Highway Administration’s Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP) grant,” he said. “We’re kind of the starting point and taking the lead on this project.”
According to transportation.gov, the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program is a new competitive grant program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to construct projects to provide safe and connected active transportation facilities in active transportation networks or active transportation spines. ATIIP projects will help improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of active transportation networks and communities; improve connectivity between active transportation modes and public transportation; enhance the resiliency of on- and off-road active transportation infrastructure; help protect the environment; and improve quality of life in disadvantaged communities through the delivery of connected active transportation networks and expanded mobility opportunities.
Funds are typically granted for projects costing between $100,000 and $15,000,000. Furthermore, Federal Highway Administration may award competitive grants to help communities plan, design, and construct safe and connected active transportation networks such as sidewalks, bikeways, and trails that connect destinations such as schools, workplaces, residences, businesses, recreation areas, and medical facilities within a community or metropolitan region.
While the idea of including or creating a bike path and walkway on the bridge isn’t new, it has also garnered support from County Executive PJ Wendel.
In an email to The Post-Journal, Wendel wrote, “As County Executive of Chautauqua County, I fully support the proposed pedestrian crossing on the Chautauqua Lake I-86 bridge. This is a unique and opportune moment to create a safe and accessible walkway across our beautiful lake, as significant bridge repair work is already underway. By incorporating a pedestrian crossing into the current construction plans, we can maximize the efficiency of resources and ensure a seamless addition to our infrastructure.”
Wendel talked about the importance of creating safe pedestrian access around the Bemus Point and Stow areas, as well as the entire perimeter of Chautauqua Lake.
“A dedicated pedestrian crossing would not only enhance safety for residents and visitors but also promote healthier, more active lifestyles by encouraging walking and biking. Additionally, it would foster greater connectivity between communities, boosting local tourism and economic development,” he wrote. “I urge New York state to develop and implement plans for this vital pedestrian crossing as part of their ongoing construction work on the Chautauqua Lake I-86 Bridge. Let’s seize this perfect opportunity to improve our infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for everyone in Chautauqua County.
Wendel also expressed his willingness to mutually work with other agencies and governmental officials to make this vision a reality.
“My door is always open, and my office is ready to assist in any way we can. Together, we can create a safer, more connected community that benefits us all.”
The Village Board passed a resolution authorizing the mayor to move forward with the grant proposal and the initial pathway planning.