ACHD postpones hearing of Barber Valley Transportation plan

The Ada County Highway District postponed public comment and action on a plan that identifies future projects to improve roadways in Barber Valley.

ACHD collected feedback from more than 300 people last spring who live or work in Barber Valley about challenges they face when it comes to transportation around the neighborhood. Much of the feedback from respondents said they wished there was more walkability and bikeability in the area.

The Barber Valley Neighborhood Transportation identifies 12 projects focused on improving connectivity and pedestrian, bicycle, and roadway safety. Upgrades include widening roads, crossing improvements on Warm Springs Avenue, completing sidewalk connections, enhancing bike facilities, and more. You can see the projects in detail here.

ACHD’s needs analysis said that the Barber Valley planning area has “high stress roadways.”

“Barriers to mobility in the Barber Valley planning area include high-stress roadways, gaps in the bikeway and sidewalk network, areas with a history of crash incidents, and other natural barriers such as topography and the Boise River,” the analysis said. “High-stress roadways generally see higher vehicle speeds and volumes, causing congestion for vehicle traffic and unsafe conditions for people traveling along the corridor or trying to cross it using active modes…Gaps in the bicycle and pedestrian network also serve as barriers; they include missing sidewalks and roadways with no or limited accommodations for people on bicycles.”

Public testimony and possible adoption of the plan was scheduled for October 26 but has now been postponed “at the direction of the commission.” ACHD will provide updates when a future hearing is set.