Toms River To Plan For Improved Bicycle, Pedestrian Access

TOMS RIVER, NJ — As Toms River officials move forward with efforts to make the downtown area a place that draws new residents, new businesses and one with an energetic vibe, town officials will soon begin looking at ways to make the town more friendly for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Township officials announced Toms River has been selected to participate in the state Department of Transportation’s program that helps towns create Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans. Toms River will be working with the NJDOT and its consultant, NV5, with a sub-consultant Stokes Creative Group, on a plan will focus on the mainland part of the town.

The goal of the plan is to identify ways to enhance and expand walking and bicycling access — and in some cases create new access — "to advance Toms River’s vision for safe bicycle and pedestrian travel throughout the township."

There will be opportunities for public input, through a website, survey, workshops and more.

"Toms River will benefit from having improved bicycle and pedestrian paths," Mayor Thomas F. Kelaher said. "This not only gives our residents and visitors another means of travel without having to use a car, but it also spurs recreational and physical activity for the whole family."

Part of the intent is to create a network that links key destinations such as schools, parks, downtown Toms River, Winding River Trail, and the developing River Walk trail.

The plan will outline recommendations for the township to implement and help prioritize future transportation investment, officials said.

The hope is to have the development of the plan finished in the summer of 2019.

Photo by Karen Wall, Patch staff