A lot has been discussed recently concerning sidewalk and bicycle improvements throughout West Windsor. I would like to offer some history about planning these improvements in the Township and on Cranbury Road, a county road.
In 2002 Mayor Hsueh created the Mayor’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Task Force to change the philosophy from that of implementing standard transportation infrastructure to a more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Shortly after, West Windsor Township received a grant from the NJDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Assistance program. The Task Force and a consultant developed a report, finalized in 2004, that provided general recommendations for bicycle and pedestrian facilities for township roads.
In 2005 the Municipal Master Plan was amended to include the recommendations of the report into the circulation element. Having completed its objective, the task force became the Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance.
When the Capital Improvement Plan was updated in 2007, the entire length of Cranbury Road was evaluated for upgrades. The section of roadway located between Princeton-Hightstown and Clarksville roads is listed in this document with a total cost of $6.2 million for these improvements. Those costs included a bridge replacement over the Big Bear Brook at $3.9 million.
Also in 2007 the Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance, Mercer County Engineers, and Township Engineer walked Cranbury Road to determine if there was a quick remedy for a safer walking path. The topography and width of road was inconsistent and constraining. It was suggested that a colored pathway from Hightstown Road to Stobbe Lane might be possible.
We have been trying to get a Safe Routes to Transit grant to implement some improvements along Cranbury Road. However, as directed by the mayor at a July 10 meeting with residents, the Engineering Division will move forward with a study using existing allocations. We will also identify and reach out to other sources of funding and support.
M. Patricia Ward
Director, Community Development,
West Windsor Township
