1. Urban Bicycle Networks Throughout Virginia I. Introduction This multimodal investment network is the incorporation of four urban bicycle studies and plans that support the long-term goal of creating an integrated and complete network of bicycle routes and paths throughout Virginia. II. Need and purpose of multimodal system Northern Virginia Bikeway and Trail Network Study With increasingly challenging requirements for better air quality in the region and traffic delays growing worse each year, there is a great deal of interest in new approaches to land use and transportation in Northern Virginia. Richmond Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan The purpose of this project is to develop a regional bicycle and pedestrian transportation plan for the Richmond area. Virginia Capital Trails The trail will be an alternate transportation facility for area residents as it connects education centers, neighborhoods, and local recreation facilities, providing separation between motorized and non-motorized traffic and increased safety for all users within the Route 5 and Greensprings Road corridors. East Coast Greenway- Through Virginia It will contribute to increasing transportation options, improving air quality, reducing roadway congestion, encouraging ecotourism and adventure travel, local economic development, improving mental and physical health via recreation and exercise, helping to connect people and communities, and helping to create new public space. IV. Integration plan Virginia Capital Trails For development purposes, the project has been divided into two segments separated at the Chickahominy River. The focus of the project is now on the eastern section of the Virginia Capital Trail in James City County. This eastern section will be constructed in two phases. The first phase will be the Greensprings Trail between Jamestown High School and Jamestown Settlement. The second phase will run along Route 5 from the Greensprings Trail to the Chickahominy Riverfront Park. The alignment of the second phase was the result of an extensive feasibility study, supported by substantial public involvement, that was completed in 1999. VDOT's goal is to have the eastern segment of the Virginia Capital Trail built by the 400th anniversary of Virginia in 2007. III. Rationale for selected alternative Northern Virginia Bikeway and Trail Network Study The system of facilities includes both on-road bike lanes and paved shoulders, as well as off-road shared use paths. Richmond Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Program The resulting document shall be a planning document that is available for use by local and regional agencies as a guide in developing and promoting safe and convenient facilities and services oriented toward bicycling and walking. Virginia Capital Trail The Virginia Capital Trail will be a multi-purpose facility along Route 5 serving bicyclists and pedestrians. The trail will link the many historic, cultural, and scenic sites along Route 5 and provide essential non- motorized transportation accommodation for communities between Richmond and Williamsburg. East Coast Greenway- Through Virginia A potential route for the Greenway through Virginia has been mapped. Segments include the Mount Vernon Trail south from D.C., part of the Potomac Heritage Trail; a Route 5 bike route being planned from Richmond to Williamsburg; and a direct route from Richmond to the Raleigh area.