Projects like the proposed Allegany School Trail require layers of approvals in order to be constructed. At this time, GObike’s scope is limited to assessing feasibility and developing preliminary design, which is the earliest stage. GObike will examine a number of factors including speed studies, current roadway usage, roadway measurements, and extensive public engagement with Five Mile Road residents, Allegany-Limestone Middle High School students and faculty, and Allegany community members, in order to make a recommendation on improvements.

Cattaraugus County will be the ultimate decision-maker for whether or not any changes are made to 5 Mile Rd. Further, any changes will require significant funding, which typically comes in the form of federal and state grants. These grants require Town of Allegany approval to submit. The Town of Allegany will decide whether or not to pursue grant funding following completion of the feasibility study.

The existence of the school on a roadway with no sidewalks or bike paths presents a barrier for any of the 626 students, 99 faculty and staff, and the 100 households along the route who would like to choose to travel using any mode other than a vehicle. Walking, bicycling, and walking with the use of strollers or assistive mobility devices has been shown to have significant benefits for individual and community wellness, both physically and mentally. GObike recognizes that many residents along 5 Mile Rd did not support the school’s construction at this location. While we cannot undo the past, we can improve upon the future by studying the conditions along 5 Mile Rd and providing recommendations for community review.

The Allegany School Trail feasibility study will examine conditions along 5 Mile Rd and provide recommendations to improve both safety and connectivity. One recommendation that might result from this study is the lowering of the speed limit; additionally, other traffic calming measures instituted through complete streets design – like the narrowing of lanes or creation of round-abouts near the junction of Buffalo Road and Five Mile Road – could potentially be recommended to reduce speed, improving both safety and connectivity for alternative transportation modes.

Greenways and bike trails increase connectivity of residents to amenities. Unlike private homes and residences, roadways are shared public spaces maintained by municipalities, and are therefore required to meet certain measures of accessibility in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); in its current condition, Five Mile Rd does not meet ADA standards. Any invasion of private property by individual trespassers should be addressed with local law enforcement, and could potentially occur with or without a trail.

Our data and observations support the fact that people – including students and teachers – are already walking and biking on this route. The establishment of a bike/ped trail will make their commute easier and safer, while encouraging others to partake in healthy active transportation options.