LCBPMMP: Entry No. 003

Here is the 3rd through 9th paragraph from the Executive Summary of the Loudoun County Bicycle and Pedestrian Mobility Master Plan:

Loudoun County can ensure that bicycle and pedestrian accommodations will be more fully integrated into local, state and regional transportation improvements. State and federal transportation policy with regard to bicycle and pedestrian accommodations continues to evolve and improve, creating new priorities and opportunities for funding. A clear articulation of local bicycle and pedestrian needs is vital to ensure that our transportation investments will improve and expand opportunities for bicycling and walking in Loudoun County.

Why is Bicycle and Pedestrian Mobility Important to Loudoun County?
Bicycling and walking issues are important to Loudoun County residents for a variety of reasons:

• Bicycling and walking are a necessary part of the transportation system in Loudoun County. Already significant numbers of people are walking and bicycling in locations that are not safe. Improving intersections, completing sidewalks, and providing highway overpasses will reduce the potential for bicycle and pedestrian fatalities and injuries from crashes with motor vehicles.
• Bicycling and walking can play a vital role in improving the health of Loudoun County residents. Research conducted in 1999 by the Centers for Disease Control found that “obesity and overweight are linked to the nation’s number one killer – heart disease – as well as diabetes and other chronic conditions.” The report also states that one reason for Americans’ sedentary lifestyle is that “walking and cycling have been replaced by automobile travel for all but the shortest distances.” – from JAMA - Journal of the American Medical Association, October 1999.
• Increased levels of bicycling and walking will help to improve air and water quality in Loudoun County. The Washington (DC) metropolitan region, of which Loudoun County is a part, is classified as a severe non-attainment area for ground level ozone by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This means air quality in the County is below federal health-based standards for clean air. Motor vehicle pollution is a major contributor to ozone pollution.
• Developing trails, bikeways and walkable communities makes good economic sense for Loudoun County. Businesses tend to invest more in locations that have a high quality of life, and corporate employers have an easier time attracting employees to these locations. Loudoun County’s ability to retain its status as a first class employment location will depend on its perception as a high quality place to live.
• Bicycling and walking can improve the overall quality-of-life of Loudoun County residents. Providing a livable community is a necessary part of attracting and retaining businesses and residents and ensuring that Loudoun County remains competitive in the 21st century. Bicycling and walking are integral to the image of Loudoun County as a safe and welcoming community.