Tuesday, October 9, 2018
 

First Fairfax County & Franconia-Springfield Parkways Meeting Tonight

The first of three public meetings on the Fairfax County & Franconia-Springfield Parkways Alternatives Analysis and Long Term Planning Study will be held tonight. Fairfax Co DOT wants input on future corridor enhancements for the Parkways, based on residents’ personal experiences and desires for multimodal access, connectivity and overall operations. You can also send feedback to the project team via a form on the county website.
Here is the list of times and places for the three meetings:
  • Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2018, at Navy Elementary School, 3500 West Ox Road, Fairfax
  • Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, at Sangster Elementary School, 7420 Reservation Drive, Springfield
  • Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2018, at Armstrong Elementary School, at 11900 Lake Newport Road, Reston

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posted by Bruce Wright at 3:03 PM permalink

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Monday, October 8, 2018
 

Please Support Fairfax Co Parkway Trail Improvements

Parkway Trail south of Rt 29
VDOT is planning to widen Fairfax Co Parkway between Route 29 and Route 123. The parallel bike trail diverts from the parkway in this section between Burke Center Parkway and Route 123. As part of the project a new trail will be built to fill in that gap. According to VDOT, "In addition to the roadway widening, improvements will be made to the existing Fairfax County Parkway Trail. Where there is no trail currently, a new shared-use path will be constructed to make the trail continuous within the project limits."

While we believe VDOT is committed to improving the trial, it will help if a few people write in support of those trail improvements. Comments are being accepted until October 15. Please consider writing to VDOT to support the proposed trail improvements. If the above link does not work, the email address is http://meetingcomments@vdot.virginia.gov. Use the Subject "Fairfax County Parkway Widening".

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posted by Bruce Wright at 8:10 PM permalink

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Wednesday, October 3, 2018
 

FFX Co Pkwy/Franconia-Springfield Pkwy Meetings Oct. 9 and 11

Fairfax County is conducting a long term study of improvements to Fairfax County & Franconia-Springfield Parkways. This is a followup to a short term study completed in 2017. FABB made extensive comments for that study, mostly about improvements at intersections. Possible long term changes include widening to 6 or 8 lanes and major intersection changes.

 The existing paved trail needs to be improved. At several intersections sight distances are poor. If the road is widened and bridges are built at intersections, the trail should be improved at the same time. Where the trail detours off the Parkway, such as at the I-66 interchange, the trail should be parallel to the road.

 From Fairfax County:
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) will hold two public information meetings on the Fairfax County & Franconia-Springfield Parkways Alternatives Analysis and Long Term Planning Study to seek input on future corridor enhancements for the Parkways, based on residents’ personal experiences and desires for multimodal access, connectivity, and overall operations.
  • Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2018, at Navy Elementary School, 3500 West Ox Road, Fairfax 
  • Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, at Sangster Elementary School, 7420 Reservation Drive, Springfield
The meetings will begin with a presentation at 7 p.m., followed by a question and answer period at 7:30 p.m., and time for public input activities at 8 p.m. Both meetings contain the same agenda and format to allow for more community participation along the corridor.

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posted by Bruce Wright at 8:39 AM permalink

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Wednesday, September 26, 2018
 

Fairfax Co Parkway Widening Meetings Sept. 25, 27, and Oct 3

VDOT is planning to widen Fairfax Co Parkway between Route 29 and Route 123. The parallel bike trail diverts from the parkway in this section between Burke Center Parkway and Route 123. As part of the project the trail a new trail will be built to fill in that gap. From VDOT:
This project aims to reduce congestion and improve safety by widening the Fairfax County Parkway (Route 286) from four to six lanes between Route 29 (Lee Highway) and Route 123 (Ox Road). The project also includes building an interchange that will consolidate Popes Head Road and the future Shirley Gate Road extension.
In addition to the roadway widening, improvements will be made to the existing Fairfax County Parkway Trail. Where there is no trail currently, a new shared-use path will be constructed to make the trail continuous within the project limits.

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Friday, September 1, 2017
 

September 14 Meeting on FFX Co Pkwy Trail/Dulles Toll Road Ramp Crossing Options

Two of the more dangerous intersections on the Fairfax Co Parkway Trail is where the trail crosses the Dulles Toll Road entrance and exit ramps in Reston. Fairfax County is holding a community meeting to discuss two options for improving one of those crossings, at the Toll Road eastbound entrance ramp. The meeting is on September 14 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Dogwood Elementary School.

One option is an improved, signalized at-grade crossing. The other option is a ped/bike bridge over the ramp. While the bridge option would involve a circuitous loop, it would be safer than the at-grade crossing. Why not attend this meeting, view exhibits, and voice your opinion?

From Fairfax County:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2017

The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) will host a community meeting on the Fairfax County Parkway trail at Dulles Toll Road ramp intersection improvements on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017, in the cafeteria of Dogwood Elementary School, 12300 Glade Drive, Reston, from 6:30-8 p.m.

Two options that are under consideration for the intersection include at-grade intersection improvements and a pedestrian-bicycle bridge. For more information, including the study summary and details on the two options, visit the project website.

The proposed intersection work is part of the Reston Metrorail Access Group (RMAG) II improvements that were endorsed and funded by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Dec. 8, 2015.

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Tuesday, April 4, 2017
 

Trail Repair Work on Fairfax County Parkway Trail

Sections of Parkway trail being
repaired north of W&OD Trail
VDOT has contracted with Arthur Construction Co. to repair sections of the Fairfax County Parkway paved trail. Yesterday we encountered work crews between the W&OD Trail and Route 7. Signs were posted that the trail was closed and construction vehicles blocked sections of the trail. I was able to navigate through the work area.

When the Parkway trail was repaired in 2014 VDOT coordinated closely with FABB in advance of repairs on sections of the trail. VDOT also posted signs showing nearby bike routes that could be used for detours. During that time we asked that trail users be allowed to pass through the work areas when feasible. That arrangement worked well. Unfortunately there has been almost no coordination this year.

We hope that in the future the entire trail will be repaved, possibly in long sections. Patching small 2-3 foot sections of the trial is costly, takes significant manpower, and does not last as long as repaving.

If you hear of problems related to this maintenance work, please either comment below or send us a note at info@fabb-bikes.org.

Construction on Fairfax County Parkway Trail
W&OD Trail bridge in background

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Thursday, December 15, 2016
 

Cyclists Needed to Fill Out Short FFX Co Pkwy Survey

If you use the Fairfax County Parkway or Franconia-Springfield Parkway trails, Fairfax County DOT wants you to fill out a Parkway survey about your priorities for those roads/trails. Unlike the W&OD Trail, the parkway trails do not have a manager or a dedicated budget for maintenance or to ensure that safe access is a priority.


While FABB worked with VDOT to fund maintenance for the northern half of the trail two years ago, work on the souther half has stalled. Many of the street or ramp crossings are dangerous, with limited sight distance, speeding motorists, and motorists turning right on red without looking right.

If you use or would like to use the Parkway trails, please consider filling out the short 11-question survey and tell VDOT to do more to make biking along the Parkway trails safer and more convenient. When we filled out the survey we asked for dedicated funding for trail maintenance (including snow plowing), better, grade-separated ramp crossings, and ensuring that a safe, well-maintained trial is a priority.

These are the questions asked on the survey (emphasis added):
1. Where do you live (neighborhood)?

2. On an average weekday, how do you currently use Fairfax County Parkway and/or Franconia-Springfield Parkway (the Parkways)? Check all that apply.

Drive
Walk
Bike
Transit
Other (please specify)

3. What time of day do you typically use the Parkways? Check all that apply.

Morning (before 10 am)
Midday (10 am to 2 pm)
Afternoon (2pm to 7 pm)
Evening (after 7 pm)

4. How far is your typical trip on the Parkways?

Short (0-2 miles)
Medium (2-5 miles)
Long (5+ miles)

5. How many times a day do you use the Parkways (enter a number)?

6. How would you like to use the Parkways? Check all that apply.

Drive
Walk
Bike
Transit
Other (please specify)

7. What do you think should be prioritized? Choose top two

Top Priority:
Second Priority:

Traffic on the Parkways
Traffic crossing the Oarkways
Traffic turning onto the Parkways
Other (please explain in box below)

8. What strategies would you like to see for meeting the future transportation needs along the Parkways? Check all that apply.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes
High Occupancy Tolling/Express Lanes
Technology/Traveler Information
Transit
Adding Capacity (more lanes)
Adding Capacity (new interchanges)
Bicycle/Pedestrian Facilities
Other (please specify)

9. Should the Parkways have a consistent design or have area specific designs? Does a drive end-to-end along the Parkways need to have the same feel or should it change depending on the location?

Consistent Design
Area Specific Designs
Please suggest locations

10. What strategy should be considered for the potential widening of the Parkways? Check one of the following.

Minimal right-of-way (ROW) impacts (limited private property acquisitions)
Unconstrained by ROW (provide sufficient number of lanes to match traffic demand)
Other (please specify)

11. What other comments or suggestions do you have regarding the goals and objectives of the long-term planning study?

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posted by Bruce Wright at 5:29 PM permalink

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Thursday, August 4, 2016
 

Board of Supervisors Ask VDOT for Better Trail Maintenance

Overgrown vegetation on the
West Ox Trail near Navy Elementary School
At their July 27 meeting the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to send a letter to VDOT asking for better trail maintenance. Supervisor Cook brought this matter before the Board along with a concern about the need for more frequent mowing of roadside grass.

During the FABB monthly meeting in the Braddock District we discussed this issue with Supervisor Cook. He agreed that VDOT should do a better job of responding to concerns expressed by cyclists and other trail users about the poor condition of our extensive trail network. The timing was right because he was already planning to raise the issue of more frequent cutting of roadside grasses with VDOT. Thank you Supervisor Cook for listening to our concerns about the need for better maintenance of trails owned by VDOT.

From the July 27, 2016 Board meeting summary:
In addition, VDOT owns trails that run adjacent to major highways. Many of these trails have become dangerous to bicyclists due to uneven pavement, large deposits of salt and sand from winter plowing, and overgrowth of plants. VDOT needs to provide better trail maintenance to correct these issues.

Therefore, Supervisor Cook moved that the Board authorize the Chairman to send a letter, a copy of which is attached to his written Board Matter, to VDOT on behalf of the Board requesting that it allocate adequate funding to mow roadside and median grass at least six times per year in the County and provide better trail maintenance. Chairman Bulova seconded the motion and it carried by a vote of nine, Supervisor L. Smyth being out of the room.
In related news, we recently contacted VDOT about this same issue. We noted that the myVDOT form used for reporting road problems does not include options for reporting problems with trails and sidewalks and we asked that they be included. Earlier this year I had reported an accumulation of sand and gravel and other debris on bridges over the Dulles Toll Road on the Fairfax Co Parkway Trail and the Wiehle Ave Trail. That debris was put their by VDOT front loaders removing snow (and the other debris) from the roadway.

Let me begin by saying that VDOT is very good at responding to reports of most road problems such as potholes and other problems. They just haven't incorporated sidewalks and trails into the system. Using the myVDOT form, one can only report road problems. Here's what the form looks like when I reported the trial problem:


I was forced to say the debris was in the road, on the shoulder or in the ditch when in fact it was on the trail. The next screen allows users to easily identify the location of the problem. In this case it was on the FFX Co Pkwy trail bridge over the Dulles Toll Rd.



Once the location is identified, you can enter a description of the problem as well as uploading a photo.



The first response from VDOT regarding the Wiehle trail was that they don't maintain the facility, to contact Fairfax County. Fairfax County confirmed that VDOT owns and is supposed to maintain that section of the trail. That was in early Spring.

After contacting VDOT management directly last month we were told that the problems would be fixed, and within a week both bridges were clear of sand and debris. Thank you VDOT! We were also told they would look into how the myVDOT form could be improved. 


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posted by Bruce Wright at 1:08 PM permalink

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Wednesday, July 27, 2016
 

Faces of Fairfax - William Clougherty and Donald Curran

Donald Curran and William Clougherty
William Clougherty of Oak Hill and Donald Curran of Burke posed together when FABB approached them on Bike to Work Day in Burke. William said he does most of his riding on the W&OD Trail. Donald, who was featured in Faces of Fairfax last year, regularly bikes to work but also rides for enjoyment. He said that he enjoys the feeling of freedom he gets when he bikes. Both men said they would like to see more bike lanes and trails to make riding easier and safer in Fairfax County.  


In 2016 FABB has been active advocating for Fairfax County and VDOT to continue making multimodal improvements to improve side trails and ramp crossings and add bike lanes, shoulders and wide curb lanes to routes such as the Fairfax County and Franconia-Springfield parkways and the Little River Turnpike inside the Beltway. FABB continues to encourage people who ride bikes or love someone who does to make their voices heard on improving bicycling infrastructure and safety at public hearings publicized on this blog site.  

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Wednesday, June 22, 2016
 

One Month Until Richmond to DC Ride

The inaugural Ride to DC: Bike for Your Right event, a 160-mile ride from Richmond to Gateway Park in Rosslyn, will be held on 23-24 July 2016. Early registration closes next week on 30 June. The cost is $150, which includes access to food and water stations every 15 miles and a complimentary beer for riders over 21 who make the finish line. Transportation options are available for purchase during online registration.  


FABB is encouraging interested northern Virginia cyclists to participate in this challenging and fun advocacy ride, which is sponsored by Sports Backers of Richmond, to demonstrate our area’s strong support for bicycling in the Commonwealth.

 The ride will rely on back roads and trails to cover the distance between Richmond and Old Mill Park, Fredericksburg, on the first day.  On day two, riders will bike from Fredericksburg along the western border of Quantico Marine Corps Base into Manassas and Chantilly before joining the Fairfax County Parkway trail into Reston. From there, the riders will take the W&OD trail south to the Custis Trail and into Rosslyn.  More details on the ride can be found on the Sports Backers website.

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Sunday, June 12, 2016
 

Vesper & Ashgrove Trails and Fairfax Co Parkway meetings Monday

Two important meetings are planned for Monday, June 13:

Ashgrove Trail - 25
Vesper Trail - 24
Vesper and Ashgrove Trails Open House - FCDOT staff will be providing an update on these two important trail projects connecting neighborhoods to the Tysons urban core. Information boards for the Ashgrove and Vesper Trail Projects will be available for the community view and County staff will be available to answer any questions on the projects. See the Hunter Mill Facebook event page for more info. See previous FABB blog posts on Vesper Trail The meeting is from 6:30-8:30pm at Freedom Hill Elementary School, 1945 Lord Fairfax Rd, Vienna, VA 22182.

Fairfax Co Parkway - The Virginia Department of Transportation, in cooperation with Fairfax County, is holding a public information meetings on a multimodal study of the 31-mile Fairfax County Parkway (Route 286) corridor from Route 7 to Route 1, as well as a 3.5-mile portion of the Franconia-Springfield Parkway. The study is assessing existing transportation issues and developing short-term multimodal improvements that can be implemented within the next one to ten years. The public is invited to stop by to learn more about the study, view displays and discuss questions with VDOT and Fairfax County staff. See the Fairfax Co Parkway Corridor Study page. This is an opportunity to ask that the Fairfax County Parkway Trail be maintained and made safer. 6:30-8:30pm at Sangster Elementary School, 7420 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153.

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Wednesday, June 8, 2016
 

It's Time to Fix the Fairfax County Parkway Trail

Fairfax Co Parkway Trail in Reston
VDOT and Fairfax County are conducting a study of possible short-term multimodal improvements to Fairfax County and Franconia-Springfield Parkways. Now is your chance to tell VDOT to fix the trails parallel to those roads. On Fairfax Co Parkway there are especially dangerous ramp crossings at Spring Street, the Dulles Toll Road, and Route 50. The unsigned detours need to be signed and the detours and trail in general need to be improved.

Please consider attending one of the following meetings or submit comments to: meeting_comments@vdot.virginia.gov?subject= Fairfax County Parkway/Franconia-Springfield Parkway Corridor Study. Please include “Fairfax County Parkway/Franconia-Springfield Parkway Corridor Study” in the subject line.

The sections under study are Fairfax County Parkway from Route 7 to Route 1 and Franconia-Springfield Parkway From – Fairfax County/ Franconia- Springfield Parkways interchange west of I-95 To – Route 613 (Beulah Street). See the meeting presentation.

From VDOT:
Fairfax County Parkway & Franconia-Springfield Parkway Corridor Study
Assessing short-term multimodal improvements in Fairfax County

Public Information Meetings

The public is invited to attend one of three public information meetings about the study:

Meeting Times: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Presentation: 7 p.m.

June 8: Hayfield Secondary School - 7630 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
June 9: Oak Hill Elementary School - 3210 Kinross Circle, Herndon
June 13: Sangster Elementary School, 7420 Reservation Drive, Springfield

E-mail or mail your comments by July 5, 2016 to Mr. Abi Lerner, P.E. at 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22030.

About the Project The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), in cooperation with the Fairfax County Department of Transportation, is conducting a multimodal corridor study for the Fairfax County and Franconia-Springfield Parkways. The Fairfax County Parkway portion of the study corridor is approximately 31 miles in length, while the Franconia-Springfield Parkway portion is 3.5 miles long. The study is evaluating existing transportation issues and is developing recommendations for short-term multimodal improvements that can be implemented within the next one to ten years.

Project Activities and Schedule

The project is expected to be completed by early 2017 and includes the following activities:
  • Traffic/Safety Data Analysis - Spring 2015
  • Identify Issues - Spring 2015
  • Analysis of Existing Conditions - Fall 2015/Winter 2015-2016
  • Identify & Evaluate Improvements - Winter 2015-2016/Spring 2016
  • Public Information Meetings - June 2016
  • Finalize Evaluations/Final Project Documentation - Winter 2016/2017

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posted by Bruce Wright at 7:53 AM permalink

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Wednesday, June 25, 2014
 

Fairfax County Parkway trail repair - Tuckaway Dr to Franklin Farm Rd

We received the latest update from VDOT on the Fairfax Co Parkway trail repair work:

Fairfax County

Direction: Rte. 286 N/B Fairfax County Parkway.
Where:  From Tuckaway Drive to Franklin Farm Road.
When: Monday 6/30/14 thru Thursday 7/3/14 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (until noon Thursday)
(weather permitting)
What: Temporary Bike Trail closure.
Why: Maintenance repairs.
Project: 0286-029-112, N501
Police: NO
Contact Info: Erwin Milian: 571-237-5211
Emergency Contact: Sam Ghobadian: 571-722-5315

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posted by Bruce Wright at 8:15 AM permalink

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Wednesday, May 14, 2014
 

Fairfax Co Parkway Trail repairs progressing

Fairfax Co Parkway Trail work
just north of New Dominion Parkway
Despite a slow start, work on the Fairfax County Parkway Trail seems to be back on schedule. The crew is now working between New Dominion Parkway and Baron Cameron Ave, just north of the W&OD Trail (the work area may extend further north; we didn't check today). The view on the right is looking north from New Dominion Parkway. We're hoping that the debris that accumulated on the trail this winter will be removed as part of the project.

When work on the section between the W&OD Trail and Sunrise Valley Dr is underway, it will be very difficult for bicyclists to bypass the work area as there is no grassy median over the Toll Road and just south of there, so plan your trip accordingly. The trail should be open before 8 a.m. and after 4 p.m.

There are few detours in that area; the trail is a critical north-south link for a reason. During the most recent volunteer bike count at that location on May 8, during the evening rush, 5-7 p.m., 46 bicyclists were counted. As a side note, there were 362 bicyclists in that two-hour period on the W&OD Trail, nearly 100 more than in the Sept 2013 count during the same period.

See the VDOT page on the trail work for details.

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Friday, May 2, 2014
 

May-June 2014 FABB Newsletter

MAY-JUNE 2014 FABB News
A bi-monthly publication of Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling
www.fabb-bikes.org

Bicycle Master Plan

tysonsplanThe long process of approving the Countywide Bicycle Master Plan is still underway. Public hearings before the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors that were planned for May and June were recently postponed. Two countywide public meetings are now planned as a way to inform the public about the latest versions of the plan and recommended facilities maps.

While we are frustrated by the slow progress, the public meetings will be an opportunity for cyclists to learn about the latest drafts of the plan. This information should soon be available on the county bike plan webpage.

Once the public meeting dates are announced, we will spread the word via FABB social media and other outlets. The official public hearing dates will likely be announced after the public meetings are held. Stay tuned.

Fairfax County Parkway Trail Repair Underway

The first phase of the Fairfax County Parkway Trail Repair began in April. Work crews started at Route 7 and will continue south to Route 29 through the summer. Only the most damaged sections of the trail will be repaved. Where large cracks have developed but the remainder of the trail is in good condition, the cracks will be filled and sealed.

Trail sections being repaired will be closed between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. There will also be some nighttime work done between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Trail users should be able to carefully bypass work in progress if they are traveling during construction times. Informational signage and maps are being posted on site. See the FABB blog for more info, including examples of signs and maps posted at each end of the work area.

Tour de Fat

tourdefat1Tour de Fat returns on Saturday, May 31 to Yards Park in DC. The party starts with a costumed bike ride at 11 a.m. and includes music, games, food, and beer from New Belgium Brewery, makers of Fat Tire Ale.

Tour de Fat is a major fundraising event for FABB. Our volunteers check IDs and attach wristbands during the event to allow attendees to purchase alcohol. In exchange we receive a portion of the proceeds. Volunteers receive a free t-shirt and two beer tokens. We will likely form bike convoys of volunteers to the event.

We need volunteers for the the morning (10-1:30 p.m.), midday (11:30-3:00 p.m.) and afternoon (1:30-5 p.m.) shifts. Contact us at chairman@fabb-bikes.org to volunteer.

Tour de Tysons

Join FABB for rides, food, and fun at Tour de Tysons bicycle race on Sunday, June 29. The organizers of the bike race, National Capital Velo Club and Tysons Partnership, support all types of bicycling in Tysons. The race course will be on a loop in the vicinity of Tysons Corner Metro Station. FABB is sponsoring a family ride on the course during the event. Related activities will be held near the Tysons Corner Metro station. Check the FABB Tour de Tysons page for details as we get closer to the event.

Join FABB for the following activities at Tour de Tysons:
  • Bicycle caravans demonstrating three routes to the Tysons Metro stations and to get cyclists to the event from three different points, arriving at 9:30 a.m.
  • Midday social ride open to everyone on the race course. ($3 participant fee for insurance.)
  • Food trucks and other vendors will be present.
  • Commuter Seminar - "How to Ride Your Bike to Work - save money, have fun!" 10:30 a.m. in front of Firehook Coffee Shop.
  • FABB table with maps and bike-related info.

Plan on joining us for a great way to experience Tysons! If you want to volunteer to help, please contact alan.g.young.sr@gmail.com.

Bike to School Day May 7

466298_503584216356602_252783199_oOn Wednesday May 7 schools around the country will celebrate the third annual National Bike to School Day. Twenty-five schools in Fairfax County have registered so far. Lots of activities from bike trains to bike rodeos are planned at the various schools. Other events include safety clinics, helmet and token giveaways, and free coffee for the parents.

Several schools in Reston and Vienna are challenging one another for "Most Bikes" bragging rights on this day. In addition, the Vienna schools are holding their 6th annual Bike/Walk Challenge week with trophies for overall walkers/bikers and most bikers. Follow along on the FABB blog for daily updates on this challenge. National Bike to School day is an effort to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools. Fairfax County Public Schools have compiled information on walking and biking to school on their Safe Routes to School web page.

Bike to Work Day May 16

Register now for Bike to Work Day, which is Friday, May 16. Two new Fairfax County events are being held this year, at Fair Lakes and McLean. We now have 12 events in Fairfax County, and we hope to have FABB reps at most of them.

Healthy Community Design Summit

The Healthy Community Design Summit will be held on Tuesday, May 6. The Summit is a chance to "learn how communities throughout the U.S. are encouraging active living through design of the built environment. Hear from a panel of local business, development and planning experts about their strategies for and successes with integrating healthy design throughout the Fairfax Community. Brainstorm with your colleagues on ways to make your neighborhoods more friendly for pedestrians and bicycles and accessible to all people. Help craft a message for leadership that demonstrates the benefits of health in all policies – especially throughout the built environment."

The event is being held at the Kena Conference Center, 9001 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax. Check-in begins at 8 a.m.; the program will be from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Register for free at Eventbrite.

Women-Only Rides

Ladies, do you want to ride with other women? Three groups, Babesonbikes.org, WABA's Women & Bicycles, and Alexandria Spokeswomen, are just for you. These groups offer a variety of social and training rides. In addition, many local bike shops have no-drop women-only rides going on this spring. Invite a friend who might be interested in cycling to join you in this non-threatening atmosphere.

Upcoming Events

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Friday, April 18, 2014
 

Fairfax Co Parkway Trail repair work begins on Monday

Repair and repaving work on the Fairfax County Parkway Trail will begin on Monday, April 21. The work will begin at Route 7 and proceed south. We've asked that access be provided during construction but in some instances that won't be possible.

Below is a draft of the signs that will be placed on each end of the section of trail under repair. Below that is a map of the appropriate section of the county bike map that VDOT has agreed to post as well.

These signs are a major step forward for VDOT in notifying users of trail closures. In the past very little notice was provided and trails were merely closed. Thanks to VDOT for working with the bike community to help inform users about trail closures and provide an aide in finding detours.

See earlier FABB blog posts about this project.

Fairfax County Parkway Trail Repair

Direction: Rte. 286 N/B Fairfax County Parkway.

Where:  From Wiehle Avenue to Rte. 7 Leesburg Pike.

When: Monday 4/21/14 thru Friday 4/25/14 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (weather permitting)

What: Temporary Bike Trail closure.

Why: Maintenance repairs.

Project: 0286-029-112, N501

Police: NO

Contact Info: Roy Leake: 540-860-2601

Emergency Contact: Sam Ghobadian: 571-722-5315


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Wednesday, March 26, 2014
 

New Fairfax County Parkway trail signage installed

VDOT recently installed wayfinding signage on the Fairfax County Parkway trail between Route 50 and Route 29. FABB has been advocating for these signs since we formed in 2005. Thanks to VDOT and Fairfax County for working together to install the signs.

New Fairfax Co Parkway trail signs

The trail diverges from the Parkway in this area and continues along West Ox Road to reconnect with the Parkway just south of Route 29. Until now trail users were left to fend for themselves. Several cyclists have said they have gotten lost when the Parkway trail suddenly diverted from the Parkway at Monument Drive and West Ox Rd. These signs will be a big help to all trail users.

The county recently allocated $80,000 to place signs on the full length of the Fairfax County Parkway and Franconia-Springfield Parkway (item 117 on Approved Projects List).

In other news about the Parkway trail, work will begin this month, starting at the Route 7 end, on repairing and repaving sections of the trail. FABB worked closely with VDOT to identify needed repairs and to develop a strategy for informing cyclists about the progress of the work.

From the VDOT news release about the new signs:
Fairfax County Parkway Bike Trail Signs – VDOT placed a series of new signs to help Fairfax County Parkway trail bicyclists navigate through Fair Lakes. The FC Parkway bike trail separates from the main roadway in Fair Lakes in order to avoid I-66 ramps. Cyclists are directed onto trails on West Ox Road and Monument Drive or Fair Lakes Drive. VDOT coordinated with FABB (Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling) and Fairfax County DOT.

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Thursday, February 20, 2014
 

Fairfax Co Parkway trail repaving meeting recap

VDOT presentation on
Parkway trail repaving
VDOT had a full team of staff available to answer questions and discuss the Fairfax Co Parkway trail repaving project at the meeting on Tuesday. The project is divided into two phases. The first phase is from Route 7 to Route 29. That work is scheduled to begin in March and end in December. This is a major undertaking for VDOT on this trail that has been deteriorating over the years and needs major maintenance work in several sections. The project powerpoint presentation is available online.

The entire trail will not be repaved. Where large cracks have developed but the remainder of the trail is in good condition, the cracks will be sealed. Where the asphalt has deteriorated, those sections will be repaved. While the trail will be closed between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., those using the trail for commuting during regular business hours should be able to complete their trips before and after those times. Otherwise we've asked that where possible trail users be allowed to carefully bypass work in progress.

Sample of an info sign
at limits of project work
Small laminated signs will be posted on each end of the sections under construction providing information to users (image on left), including estimated dates for completion of the segment and a QR code for linking to the project website. Additionally, a reference map will be posted to allow cyclists to determine possible alternative routes, with a phone number for contacting on-site staff. We're hoping that the county bike map will be used as the basemap.

FABB has worked closely with VDOT on this project, helping identify where repairs are needed and discussing processes used during construction. The work will be a major benefit to cyclists who use this important north-south trail connection. Thanks to VDOT for funding the work and listening to our concerns. Their efforts are very much appreciated.

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posted by Bruce Wright at 11:16 AM permalink

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Monday, February 10, 2014
 

VDOT meeting on Fairfax Co Pkwy Trail repaving on Feb. 18

VDOT is holding an information meeting on the repaving of the Fairfax County Parkway Trail. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

FABB has worked with VDOT to identify sections of the trail most in need of repair. Unfortunately there are not enough funds to completely repave the trail so several sections will be selected. The work will happen in two phases. See the FABB blog for more details on the project and see the Fairfax County Parkway Trail Maintenance project page.

Cyclists are encouraged to attend the to support the project and to find out details about what provisions are being made for ensuring the trail users have short-term detours or alternate routes. While it does not make sense to spend scarce maintenance funds on building elaborate detours, more informal detours could be provide to ensure cyclists and other trail users aren't forced to fend for themselves when faced with a "Trail Closed" sign.

Below is from the VDOT announcement of the meeting.
VDOT TO REPAIR FAIRFAX COUNTY PARKWAY TRAIL
Join the project team for a “pardon our dust” meeting Feb. 18

Fairfax—The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will host a “pardon our dust” meeting on a $354,000 project to repair the pedestrian/bicycle trail adjacent to Fairfax County Parkway between Leesburg Pike (Route 7) and Lee Highway (Route 29).  The repairs will improve safety, readability and durability of the trail.
The meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.
Residents are invited to attend to learn more about the maintenance and repairs that are scheduled to take place from March 2014 to September 2014.
The meeting will begin with a project presentation, followed by an open question and answer session.
VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  If you need more information or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT’s Civil Rights 703-259-1775 or (TTY/TDD users, call 711).
For more information, visit the Fairfax County Parkway Trail Maintenance project page.

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posted by Bruce Wright at 2:00 PM permalink

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Tuesday, February 4, 2014
 

Date set for Bicycle Master Plan public hearings

At the January FABB meeting County Bike Coordinator Charlie Strunk gave an overview of recent bike-related activities in the County. As you can see from the list of projects, Charlie has his hands full. The big news is that dates have been set for the Bicycle Master Plan public hearings before the Planning Commission (May 8) and Board of Supervisors (June 17). 

 We're hoping the county can get more information about the plan on the web. Currently only info about Phase I, the Tysons Bike Plan, is on the Bicycle Master Plan page even though Phase II, the Countywide Plan, was completed in July 2012.

 Highlights from the discussion:
Bicycle Master Plan – County is holding weekly status meetings with DPZ and consultants.    BMP will go in front of Planning Commission on May 8 and Board of Supervisors June 17.   Because it’s a plan amendment the process is arduous.   There is not yet a draft available for FABB review.  The consultant is finalizing the plan language, maps and a glossy, bound document that contains the full plan document.  The Comprehensive plan will reference this bound document. The plan will be a guide, not an ordinance. Charlie’s goal is to take the glossy doc to the board (approximately April) as an information item and have a final Bicycle Advisory Committee meeting afterwards.
Wiehle/Reston East Bike Room – As of today 90 members have requested application packages. Access fobs have been delivered.You will need a sticker on your bike. The packages should go out last week in Jan first week in Feb. There is discussion of having an open house on the long weekend of Feb 15th (Presidents Day and Valentines Day), but it is not final. There will be a booklet as part of the marketing material.
Project Bike the Sites – A consultant is on board. The map might be done by BTWD. (This is info from the County Bike Pages: "The County was awarded Federal Enhancement Funds to create a family-friendly non-motorized route to Historic sites and buildings located in the Western region of Fairfax County, mostly comprised within the Sully District. The project consists of a bicycle map pinpointing historical locations over an approximate 15 mile bike loop, including wayfinding signage. The County is currently looking to hire a consultant that can provide cartographic and design services to create and print a map. FCDOT is looking to complete the projects in summer 2013."
FFX Co Parkway Signage – (Rt 50 to Rt 29) A signage plan was put together by Charlie for VDOT.  The signs are going up in about two weeks. The signs are similar to McLean.  
WOD & Gallows Rd – The traffic signal at that intersection is scheduled to be replaced in Fall 2014/Spring 2015. This may be the FIRST bicycle signal in Fairfax County.  It will be a red/yellow/green light alongside a Ped Signal. Bicyclists will have a longer green bike signal, allowing them to enter the crosswalk even when the ped light is flashing "Don't Walk". There may be active or passive cyclists detection. There's also discussion of reducing the wait time for cyclists and pedestrians.
Bicycle Parking Guidelines are COMPLETE.  Will be sent to the Board as an informational item in March.
BTWD is May 16th.  13 Pit Stops.  They may move Reston from RTC to the Silver Line station.  Dennis will check on the possible McLean stop
Demonstration Project in FFX Co Gov’t Center Area.  There is lots of reserve road capacity near the Government Center.   Gov Center Pwky has a median, so it may have buffered bike lanes.   Ridgetop may also be included due to overcapacity, including re-introduction of on-street parking.  Legato Rd is in the proposal.  These are all together as a demo project.

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posted by Bruce Wright at 5:02 PM permalink

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