The council’s discussion on the 2024 bicycle facilities implementation plan served as the epicenter of the meeting. With the ongoing PSG gas system modernization and the resurfacing program, the council explored opportunities to introduce bicycle facilities into these projects. The dialogue revolved around incorporating bike lanes, shared lane markings, and bicycle boulevards into the town’s landscape, guided by the master plan and complete streets goals. Negotiations with PSNG were highlighted as a step towards installing new bicycle markings.

Specific roads were identified for the implementation of bicycle facilities, including North Harrison Street, Witherspoon Avenue, Spruce Street, and Franklin Avenue. The council deliberated on the proposal for bike lanes on Franklin Avenue and considered recommendations from the Princeton Bicycle Advisory Committee. Walnut Lane was designated for a new shared-use path, and a section from Witherspoon to Valley Road was marked as a bicycle boulevard.

Continuing the focus on cycling infrastructure, the council examined road improvement projects and the potential integration of bike lanes on Hodge Road, Riverside Drive, University Place, Mount Lucas Road, Terhune Road, Cherry Hill Road, among others. The removal of parking to create bike lanes, especially on Riverside Drive, raised questions regarding traffic speeds and safety. The necessity of council action to bring forth new bike lanes and the impact on road design was debated, with a holistic approach to road planning and parking availability being advocated.

The conversation also extended to Hamilton and Valley Roads, where prioritization and safety of bike lanes were of concern. The council underscored the importance of a review of street-specific impacts on parking. The width of Franklin Street became a point of contention, questioning its adequacy for bike lanes. The council stressed the need to concentrate on areas where resources could be allocated effectively and cautioned against hasty decision-making.

Public participation featured prominently in the meeting, with residents voicing their concerns. Ronald Berlin called for a hybrid format for planning board meetings to accommodate both in-person and virtual participants. Another resident, Prata, highlighted the urgency for dedicated bike lanes and the need for driver awareness of the NJ safe passing law.

Council member Eve Niedergang announced the gas leaf blower ban for the upcoming season and the flag-raising event for Pride Month. The council also reminded the public of the Memorial Day Parade and sought feedback on Hines Plaza through display boards placed outside.

The meeting moved on to fiscal matters, introducing an ordinance to increase Princeton sewer service charges. A resolution was discussed, authorizing a cooperative pricing agreement with Mercer County Special Services District, which raised queries about the accessible items through the agreement. A contract with Motorola Solutions for mobile and portable radios was mentioned, noting the funding source as a state grant.

Environmental concerns were addressed as the council considered a resolution supporting the New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team’s application for a US Fish and Wildlife Services grant aimed at eradicating emerging invasive species.

The council also discussed a resolution to award a contract to UNIFirst Corporation for uniform purchases, with a request for more detailed information on such resolutions. The consent agenda was subsequently approved, and the meeting concluded.