While 2020 looks like a lighter year in terms of road-related projects in Anderson Township, one larger project is scheduled for this summer. The plan includes resurfacing of Beechmont Avenue within the township, adding a new striping pattern that seeks to better accommodate all forms of transportation.
The project stems from recommendations in the township’s consolidated Beechmont Corridor Plan, updated in 2018.
Handicap-accessible ramps will be reworked in some areas, while bicycle-specific lanes will be identified on Beechmont through the use of pavement striping. The improvements are planned in conjunction with work the Ohio Department of Transportation is undertaking to modify traffic signal operations. Signal changes will allow pedestrians advance time to begin crossing Beechmont (similar to the Five Mile Trail crosswalk at Clough Pike).
“Anderson Township, working with ODOT, has made great strides to improve traffic flow and safety along Beechmont,” said Township Planner 1 Sarah Donovan. “However, throughout the corridor, we still have a ‘no-man’s land along the shoulder,” areas that could be used by bicyclists but where the law actually prohibits them from riding.”
To address that problem, the new striping pattern provides for defined bicycle lanes, she said. “These upgrades will not only improve the safety of bicyclists but improve traffic flow and safety by separating riders from vehicles,” Donovan added.
Trustee Andrew Pappas added that the plan also provides for defined bus stops, making it safer for METRO riders as well. Between Salem Road and Birney Lane, defined areas of on-street parking will be added. “Planned change here will help to enhance the single-family nature of this area,” Pappas added, where limited off street parking opportunities exist.
Similar to changes in the “Downtown Anderson” area (Wolfangel to Asbury Road), which stemmed from the township’s award-winning plan for that area, this upcoming project best utilizes the pavement and right of way for all forms of transportation. However, “The proposed changes still maintain five lanes of traffic through the entire corridor” added Steve Sievers, assistant administrator for operations.
We envision this to be one more in a growing list of very successful joint projects with ODOT,” said Donovan. “We are thrilled with their level of responsiveness to the needs and desires of Anderson businesses and residents,” he added, and to take into consideration the safety of motorists, pedestrians, transit users and cyclists as they resurface our “Main Street.”