Public comment sought on
transportation issues

Forums organized by campus, PVTA

wo public forums are being held on campus next week to outline plans for a comprehensive campus transportation study and solicit public opinion on related issues.

     A joint effort of the University and the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, the study is aimed at identifying needs, deficiencies and opportunities for the campus transportation system and evaluating the effectiveness of alternative transportation improvements.

     "The study comes as a result of growing transportation demands, physical expansion of the university campus and a state environmental protection agency mandate to reduce commuting by single-occupancy vehicles," said Ted Weidner, associate vice chancellor for Facilities and Campus Services.

     Phase I of the study will include a comprehensive analysis of the campus transportation network, which is part of the regional system, and a review of existing conditions, issues and policies. Factors to be examined include campus community travel characteristics; public transit routes, service levels, fares and ridership; roadway and traffic operations; land use and neighborhood characteristics; pedestrian and bicycling environments; issues related to the Americans with Disabilities Act; and parking.

     The first phase of the study will also include a review of existing reports and studies, documentation of "best practices" at comparable universities and stakeholder interviews.
The public meetings are intended to garner comments from students, faculty and staff as well as residents, business owners and civic groups in neighboring towns. The meetings are being held in the Mullins Center's Massachusetts Room on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 4-6 p.m., and Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m.

     Among the possible transportation alternatives to be detailed at the forum are a multi-modal passenger transportation system, improvements to transit services, new parking structures, access ramps to Route 116, a consolidated freight depot and improved bicycle facilities.

     As the first phase proceeds, more public sessions will be held to update progress, present findings and solicit reactions. The final report is expected next fall. Phase II of the study will develop the selected scenario in greater detail and is anticipated to be undertaken in 2002.

     Parking for the forums is available in Lot 25 near the Mullins Center. Campus shuttle buses also stop at the Mullins Center. Special transportation is available by calling the PVTA at 732-6248.