A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the proposed 10-foot wide shared-use path aimed at connecting neighborhoods and schools in Franklin. This path is intended to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. Concerns were raised about the existing infrastructure, particularly a crosswalk near a large apartment complex that is perceived as dangerous. Discussions revealed that children are hesitant to use this crosswalk due to safety concerns. The committee reviewed a cost estimate for the project, approximately $133,000, covering the path’s section by Norman Avenue leading to the football field. This estimate includes potential safety enhancements like high-visibility crosswalks and additional lighting. One member highlighted the project’s potential health benefits, stating it would enhance micro-mobility and community health.

Despite the project’s potential, some members expressed reservations about its necessity without addressing roadway safety measures on Norman Avenue. Concerns about fast-moving traffic and parked cars contributing to cyclists’ and pedestrians’ sense of danger were discussed. The committee agreed on the need for thorough planning and community feedback before proceeding. Participants suggested gathering opinions from local residents and school personnel to identify natural crossing points and existing safety measures. This initiative aligns with previous committee activities focused on health and wellness, emphasizing mental health benefits by connecting with nature.

The conversation shifted towards planning for National Trails Day, scheduled for June 7. Members discussed potential locations, with Bunker Hill and Six Mile Run being the primary contenders. Parking capacity and event logistics were key considerations, particularly given Six Mile Run’s popularity among the biking community. A permit would be required if attendance exceeded 20 people, adding another layer of complexity to the planning. There was interest in combining a hike with a tour of a historical site, potentially collaborating with Suanne to facilitate the tour. Discussions also touched on incorporating a volunteer signup sheet and encouraging donations to support the historical site.

The committee also considered a “Walk All Trails” program designed to encourage residents to explore the township’s 14 trails. A feedback form was proposed to gather trail users’ experiences, including favorite views and amenities, to promote the trails. The form aims to collect valuable data for the mayor’s wellness campaign while maintaining user-friendliness by making most questions optional. Members debated whether to include questions about health metrics, ultimately deciding to focus on essential information to avoid overwhelming respondents.

Further discussions covered ongoing trail maintenance issues, particularly at Negri Park, where inadequate maintenance led to overgrown trails. Concerns were raised about communication regarding maintenance practices, prompting a call for clearer guidelines for the Department of Public Works (DPW). A specific incident involving debris from a broken mirror highlighted the need for proper protocols, including police reports before cleanup. Members emphasized the importance of collaboration between the trails committee and DPW to manage park maintenance effectively.

In addition to trail maintenance, the meeting addressed safety concerns related to transportation infrastructure. A connection point deemed unsafe highlighted the committee’s mandate to advocate for non-automobile transportation infrastructure. While discussing old business, members expressed frustration over delayed adoption of the pathways and trails plan due to the planning board’s focus on warehouse reviews. This delay has hindered progress on several initiatives.

The committee explored opportunities to improve connectivity between schools and neighborhoods through the micro-mobility study. A proposed shared-use path connecting Franklin Middle School and Hillcrest Elementary School sparked interest, with members emphasizing the need to accommodate students without driver’s licenses. Suggestions included incorporating bike repair stations and bike corrals along the trails to encourage biking and improve safety. However, financial constraints were acknowledged as a potential barrier to implementation.