EUGENE BIKE COALITION MINUTES 11/26/07

David Roth explained that the Bike summit would include booths for those organizations that would like to display their materials. David is looking for help in organizing the event. Contact David Roth if you are interested in helping.

The designs for Elmira and Maple streets in the Bertelsen Rd. area have been in the makings for several months. It is an unimproved street with lots of bicycle use. Several plans have been discussed which include. 1) 14 feet traffic lanes shared with bicycles. 2) 9 feet traffic lanes and 5 foot bike lanes.

If anyone is interested in following this project and giving input the next meeting is on December 4^th.. Check the city web site for time and location.

Sue Wolling and Richard Hughes met with GEARS to discuss a possible merger. GEARS is losing members and sees the merger as a way to boost membership. The EBC is interested in GEARS nonprofit status as it would facilitate the organizations needs. There is a similar organization in Flagstaff, AZ. that has 500 members. Richard has been in contact with the club and they are willing to share some of their ideas on organization and structure. Further discussion centered around the need to take a look at the Gears By Laws to see how the EBC fits into their organization. Some issues to be looked into would be:

1) Liability 2) Dispensing Money 3) Nonprofit Rules 4) Dues, do EBC members pay? 5) How will money from both organizations be combined or can they remain separate?

Future improvements to Willamette street might include changing the one way section near 18^th into a two way thus making it possible to have 3 traffic lanes and bike lanes. Power lines may be relocated. A question was raised about traffic volumes and the new design. David said the new configuration would not impede traffic flow. A meeting will take place on December 11^th from 6:30-9:30pm. Check the city web site for location.

The poor condition of High Street due to EWEB work was brought to the groups attention. It was suggested that people send emails to the EWEB maintenance division in regards to the need to restore the High Street bike lane to its previous condition. Emails or letters can also be sent to the City of Eugene's maintenance division or to Lee Shoemaker.

Leaf Removal is once again playing havoc with cyclists. Anyone wanting to see a policy change on how leaf removal takes place should contact the city or your city councilors. Much discussion took place on how to educate the public on where to place the leaves on the street. It was pointed out that Salem allows no leaves in the street and people are fined for doing so. In the south hills the leaves sit in the streets for weeks and end up in the storm sewer or are pulverized on the road making it slick for bicyclists and pedestrians.

A Crest Drive design update was given by Lyndell Wilken and David Roth. At this time it appears that the CDCT will move forward with the current designs, which do not include bike lanes. The design includes 18 feet lanes, traffic calming, and a sidewalk on one side. Most of the sidewalks will be on the downhill side of the streets. David Roth indicated the design will have a public hearing in February and come before the city council for approval in March. Actual construction will not start until Spring 2009.

The EBC is working on their mission statement. A sign up sheet was sent around for those interested in working on the statement. Anyone interested in adding their name contact Jim Wilcox or Sue Wolling.

The next EBC meeting will take place on December 17^th.