Alexandria applies for grants to extend bike lane, install pedestrian crossing

The city of Alexandria hopes to receive federal funds for two projects that will benefit bicyclists and pedestrians.

One of the projects would extend the pedestrian and bicycle lanes on Geneva Road.

The first phase of that project has already been completed on Geneva Road from McKay Avenue to the public beach on Lake L’Homme Dieu. This second phase would extend the bike lane to County Road 73.

The other project would be to install an improved pedestrian and bicycle crossing on 3rd Avenue.

City Engineer Tim Schoonhoven told the Alexandria City Council at its November 22 meeting that the application process for the federal Surface Transportation Program is “very competitive.” He added, however, that the city was able to receive funds from the program for the first phase of the Geneva Road bicycle lane project.

The council voted unanimously to apply for the federal funds for both projects. Schoonhoven said this will get the city “in line” for funding that will be granted five years down the road.

Tags: local news, city council, news