The cities of Newport and Covington have each adopted a new plan aimed at providing roadmap to connect and expand bicycling infrastructure in Northern Kentucky.
Adoption of the “The Covington + Newport Bicycle Transportation Plan” is the result of more than a year of collaboration between the cities, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Tri-State Trails, a local nonprofit focused on active transportation advocacy.
The planning process, which began in January 2023, featured a summerlong community engagement effort. More than 450 people took part and provided feedback.
Using that information, the parties created a series of short- and long-term recommendations for infrastructure improvements, as well as non-infrastructure suggestions focused on everything from policies and programs to evaluation metrics, design guidelines and maintenance.
For routes with proposed infrastructure improvements, the group considered what facilities will best fit using a context sensitive design approach. The plan concludes with a comprehensive listing of potential funding sources for implementation.
In March, Tri-State Trails presented the draft plan to both city commissions. Newport approved the plan on Aug. 19, and Covington followed suit on Aug. 27.
“The Cities of Newport and Covington commend Tri-State Trails for their leadership and efforts in the development of this plan,” Covington Mayor Joe Meyer and Newport Mayor Tommy Guidugli wrote in a joint letter inserted as a foreword to the plan.
“It is indeed aspirational and provides a well-considered roadmap for addressing serious problems and creating a safer, more inviting environment for the biking public.”
Funding for the plan’s development was provided by the Devou Good Foundation.
To review the plan and learn more about the planning process, visit tristatetrails.org/covington-newport-bicycle-transportation-plan/
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