Based on a review of the Town of Cheektowaga’s Comprehensive Plan, there is a need for more pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and amenities to support the advancement of complete streets. 

GObike has been contracted by Erie1 BOCES through the NYS Department of Health’s Creating Healthy Schools & Communities program to provide community outreach and engagement, programming and small-scale infrastructure interventions to advance the goal of the town to adopt a complete streets policy and provide a multi-modal transportation network to improve community health.

The current conditions at Cheektowaga Town Park present a great opportunity to begin a process that will facilitate a welcoming atmosphere for increased walking and cycling. There are already multiple existing facilities at Cheektowaga Town Park such as the Youth Center and Ice Rink which will benefit from upgrading the cycling and trail amenities. Improving the existing conditions at Cheektowaga Town Park will lay a foundation for improving access and mobility through the Town of Cheektowaga connecting residents to everyday destinations.

The Cheektowaga Town Park neighborhood will be a great location to begin with some small-scale pedestrian and improvements. We’re recommending the implementation of pavement markings such as bumpouts, crosswalks, and shared lane markings, to improve visibility and safety for those accessing the park by foot. We also recommend the installation of bicycle racks within Town Park to encourage more people to ride their bikes to the park by providing amenities for secure bike storage.

In May 2022, GObike hosted an assessment and workshop for community organizations and leaders in the Town of Cheektowaga to better understand the planning process and solutions for improved walkability and street accessibility. Participants learned what Complete Streets are, the benefits to their communities, and began developing a vision and action plan for the implementation of various infrastructure improvements.

Building support for a town-wide Complete Streets policy requires the interest and input from communities all across Cheektowaga. Therefore, community engagement will play a crucial role, as part of our planning and policy work. We’ll be hosting different events and activities over the next several months to meet and hear from community residents. Check back here for more information!