City plans bold complete streets initiative for safer development

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed several transportation and development projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and connectivity in New Bern. Key topics included the analysis of high-crash areas, potential road improvements, and the integration of complete streets principles into future developments.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is currently evaluating Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard due to its history of accidents. While there is a consensus that a road diet could slow traffic, DOT has indicated that they will not support such measures for MLK. Instead, officials are exploring alternative solutions to improve safety along this corridor.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of pedestrian accommodations in upcoming projects, particularly at the Glen Burnie and Highway 70 interchange. Although the project predates the complete streets initiative, there is a push to ensure that future developments incorporate pedestrian-friendly features, such as sidewalks and bike lanes.

Future development plans include extending Broad Street to the Riverwalk and connecting Pine Valley Drive to New Bern High School with a sidepath. These projects will depend on collaboration with developers to meet the city’s updated land use ordinances, which aim to mandate pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure in new constructions.

Officials emphasized the need for clear regulations that would require developers to include complete streets elements in their plans. Currently, recommendations exist but lack enforceability. By formalizing these requirements into law, the city hopes to facilitate better planning and integration of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in new developments.

The meeting concluded with a call for support from committee members to advance these initiatives, underscoring the city’s commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility for all residents.