When the Regional Intergovernmental Council (RIC) Metropolitan Planning Organization sought to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and connectivity across Kanawha and Putnam Counties, B&N was engaged to help turn long-range goals into an actionable, regionwide active transportation strategy.
Building on the region’s 2019 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, the 2025 RIC Active Transportation Plan (ATP) focused on closing critical network gaps, addressing documented safety concerns and expanding equitable access to walking and biking options. The effort responded to community needs, including limited safe routes to schools, access to parks and greenspaces, and connections to transit, grocery stores and essential services for residents who rely on active transportation.
From Regional Vision to Implementation-Ready Plan
B&N led the development of the ATP through a collaborative, data-informed planning process that balanced technical analysis with extensive community and stakeholder input. The team worked closely with RIC staff and partners in the region to make sure the plan took into account real-world conditions while also supporting long-term goals for transportation and land use.
B&N’s services included active transportation planning, safety and gap analysis, public and stakeholder engagement and implementation prioritization.
Key Plan Components That Drive Action
- Targeted Public and Stakeholder Engagement
B&N held pop-up events to engage with the community where they are, which included attending a Dirty Birds Minor League baseball game and community events at a popular regional park. - Data-Informed, Equity-Focused Analysis
Pedestrian and bicycle activity data from Strava Metro was paired with crash history, land use, points of interest and demographic indicators, including zero-car households, poverty status, age and disability to guide equitable investment decisions. - Multidisciplinary Safety and Gap Assessment
Planners and engineers worked together to identify missing links, unsafe crossings and high-priority corridors, with emphasis on areas where residents depend most on walking and biking. - Implementation-Ready Prioritization
The plan delivered prioritized infrastructure and program recommendations, supported by planning-level cost estimates and potential funding strategies to advance near- and long-term projects.
Positioning the Region for Measurable Progress
The RIC ATP provides a clear roadmap for improving safety, connectivity and access across two counties. By aligning technical analysis with community priorities, the plan positions RIC and its partners to pursue funding, advance implementation and make informed decisions that improve mobility and quality of life throughout the region.