Policy Actions to Improve Safety and Comfort for Cyclists and Pedestrians in San Marcos, Texas
Date
2019-05
Authors
Carpenter, Tory
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Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this applied research project is threefold. First, it describes the ideal components of effective bicycle and pedestrian policy. Second, it assesses the City of San Marcos’ policies using case study methodology (document analysis and direct observation). Third, it provides recommendations for improving bicycle and pedestrian polices at the City of San Marcos.
Method: This research uses three policy categories; legal protections, development patterns, and network design that are framed to evaluate the bicycle and pedestrian polices of the City of San Marcos. Each policy category is divided into multiple sub categories which have their own rating criteria. The study assesses the San Marcos’ development codes, comprehensive plan, and code of ordinances.
Findings: This project finds that the City of San Marcos sufficiently meets most of the suggested policy actions outlined in the literature. The project also makes recommendations for the City of San Marcos to improve certain bicycle and pedestrian policies. Some specific examples of recommendations include; revisions to the existing complete streets policy by including retrofit projects; and additional public outreach via social media to inform the public of safe passing laws.
Description
An Applied Research Project Submitted to the Department of Political Science, Texas State University, in Partial Fulfillment for the Requirements for the Degree of Masters of Public Administration, Spring 2019.
Keywords
bicycles, pedestrians, cyclists, policies, San Marcos, safety, transportation, Public Administration
Citation
Carpenter, T. (2019). Policy actions to improve safety and comfort for cyclists and pedestrians in San Marcos, Texas. Masters of Public Administration, San Marcos, Texas.