During the latest city council meeting, discussions centered on enhancing bicycle and pedestrian safety following a tragic incident involving a cyclist. Councilman Ozar expressed his condolences regarding the recent death of a bicyclist at the intersection of Royal St. George and Ogden Avenue, emphasizing the need for a long-term strategy to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in the city.

Ozar proposed that while immediate budget considerations may not allow for new initiatives this year, he would like to see a comprehensive plan developed for 2025. He suggested gathering statistics on pedestrian and bicycle safety, particularly concerning children walking to school, to inform future actions.

Councilwoman Taylor supported Ozar's sentiments and highlighted that the city is already in the process of developing a bike and pedestrian safety plan. She noted that funds have been allocated for this initiative, which is expected to culminate in a request for proposals (RFP) by the end of the year.

Jennifer Plaut, the deputy director of the city's transportation department, confirmed that both a bicycle and pedestrian plan and an update to the roadway improvement plan are underway. These plans aim to create a cohesive mobility strategy that addresses safety across various modes of transportation. Plaut indicated that stakeholder engagement will be a key component of the planning process, ensuring that community input shapes the future of the city's transportation network.

The council's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing safety concerns and improving infrastructure for non-motorized road users, with plans set to evolve over the coming years.