FORT KENT-The town of Fort Kent is getting more bike- and walk-friendly thanks to collaboration between the municipality, Power of Prevention Healthy Maine Partnership and Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC).

   Funding from the Maine Department of Transportation is being used to create a bicycle/pedestrian plan for the community.

   "NMDC will be writing the plan and starting the public outreach process" said NMDC Senior Planner Jay Kamm. "We have begun mapping the present trail system and are now working to identify potential projects that would improve access and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians."

   The initiative is a result of priorities spelled out in the new Fort Kent Comprehensive Plan which states improved facilities for safer, more connected, opportunities to walk and bike will improve the quality of life for everyone in Fort Kent. The goal of the plan is to define what is needed to make Fort Kent a bike- and walk-friendly community.

   Studies show that improved opportunities for biking and walking make a community a more desirable place to live, and improves its economy and quality of life, according to a news release from the Power of Prevention Healthy Maine Partnership.

   Project stakeholders will prioritize a list of projects, from simple signs and markings, to improved sidewalks and crosswalks, to major trail development, including surfaces, lighting and benches.

   "This is a great opportunity for the resident's of Fort Kent to improve the bike and pedestrian trail system within their community," added Kamm. "Through the identification of potential projects and funding sources, the goal is a well connected trail system in Fort Kent."

   For example, identification of safe walking/bicycling routes between places where people live, work, go to school and play, will be a first step. Safety improvements, sidewalks, signs, maps and designated trails that connect existing facilities such as 10th Mountain and the new Senior Center may be suggested to encourage active, as opposed to motorized, transportation. The potential of a complete Fish River Greenway trail along both sides of the river in town will be examined.

   Kamm also stressed planners are striving to make sure efforts benefit people of all ages and not just cater to a specific group.

   "We want this to be as inclusive as possible," he said.

   The Power of Prevention release also indicated Community education and special events, such as Walk and Bike to School and Work, to celebrate the advantages of walking and biking will be part of creating a more walkable/bikeable Fort Kent.

   If you would like to participate in the advisory group, please contact Don Guimond Fort Kent town manager, (207) 834-3090; Karen Boutot at the Power of Prevention, (207) 436-5289; or Kamm, (207) 498-8736.

   Kamm said the project is to be completed by July 1 of this year.