HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/19/2024 - WalkBikeAndover Comment - - 2/20/24,8:31 AM Town of North Andover Mail-Encouraging Bicycle Accommodations at the North Andover Mall
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Encouraging Bicycle Accommodations at the North Andover Mall
1 message
Walk Bike Andover<walkbikeandover@gmail.com> Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 11:18 AM
To:jen rig ht@northandoverma.gov, zmelcher@northandoverma.gov, bwolstromer@northandoverma.gov,
egoldberg@northandoverma.gov,jsimons@northandoverma.gov, pboynton@northandoverma.gov,
gwilkens@northandoverma.gov, ckoskores@northandoverma.gov, skevlahan@northandoverma.gov
Dear North Andover Planning Board,
We wanted to take a moment to address some of the concerns raised regarding our previous request for the addition of
bicycle accommodations at the North Andover Mall. First and foremost, we want to express our appreciation for everyone
taking the time to consider and discuss our initial comments at the recent meeting. It's heartening to see when a
community is invested in creating inclusive and accessible spaces for all.
In response to the question of who would bike to the grocery store, we believe it's essential to consider both current and
potential users. While it's true that biking might not be the primary mode of transportation for many at the moment, with
the state's redesign of Route 114 to include bike paths, we have a unique opportunity to align our commercial
infrastructure with sustainable transportation initiatives. By incorporating bike parking and safe cycling routes, we not only
cater to existing cyclists but also encourage a shift towards more eco-friendly modes of transport.
Moreover, biking serves as an affordable alternative to driving, particularly for residents of Environmental Justice
neighborhoods who rely on transit for longer journeys. The integration of bike racks on our McVa buses highlights the
interconnectedness of various modes of transportation, emphasizing the importance of seamless transitions between
them. Consideration should also be given to those who work at the mall, many of whom may prefer biking as a means of
commuting if there were safe and accessible accommodations.
Additionally, one mile south of the mall there resides approximately 1600 (of the 2800 total)students living on-campus at
Merrimack College who do not have a car. Providing bicycle accommodations becomes even more pertinent in enhancing
accessibility to the mall.
When we quantify"bicycle access" it extends beyond mere parking spaces; it encompasses the creation of safe and well-
defined cycling routes within the mall premises. While utilizing vehicular travel lanes is a temporary solution, dedicating
space for cyclists, perhaps by widening sidewalks to accommodate multi-use paths, would significantly enhance safety
and convenience for all road users. It's important to be deliberate in the design of safe circulation patterns for bicycles and
make the intended circulation clear to users.
It's understandable that the current lack of infrastructure might deter individuals from biking to the mall which is why the
natural response is, "Who would bike to the grocery store?" However, as we look towards the future, it's imperative that
we take proactive steps to make our community more inviting and inclusive, regardless of the chosen mode of
transportation. Lets not forget that this mall also is home to a bookstore, three restaurants, a salon, a mobile phone store,
a credit union, and a few other stores.
We urge the community to embrace this opportunity to foster a more sustainable and inclusive environment. By adhering
to bike parking guidelines and actively promoting cycling as a viable—i.e. safe and convenient—means of transportation,
we can position the mall as a welcoming destination for all. For further reference, we have included a link to bike parking
guidelines for your convenience that can be found on the Walk Bike Andover website (https-//www.walkbikeandover.
org/bike-parking/guidelines). When it comes to bike parking, getting the small details right can be the difference between
parking that is safe and secure, or parking that is completely unusable.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to continued collaboration in making our community a better
place for everyone.
Best Regards,
Walk Bike Andover
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