The LECOM Park and Village of the Arts Mobility Study seeks to better understand how people move within and through the area, whether they’re walking, riding a bike, driving a car or truck, or riding transit. The Study is generally broken into the following four sections:

• Analysis of Existing Conditions | This section focuses on understanding the existing conditions regarding the study area. Items such as the presence of infrastructure like lighting or sidewalks, or traffic volume will be documented. A review of previous planning efforts, including programmed construction projects, will also be undertaken in addition to the collection of traffic count data.
   
• Needs Assessment | The Needs Assessment is essentially a summary of where the transportation system is currently deficient. This section includes a review of the date and location of crashes, an analysis of how vehicular traffic operates, an analysis of gaps in infrastructure for people walking or riding bikes, and a review of relevant land use policies. This review will help inform potential solutions within the area.
   
• Complete Streets Solutions | This section will take the findings of the previous two sections, along with preliminary stakeholder engagement, to develop projects that enhance mobility within the area. This section will include a catalog of general mobility solutions that could be applied throughout the area, as well as site-specific interventions. Solutions will be sorted by short-, medium-, and long-term based on how quickly and affordably they can be designed and deployed.
   
• Public Involvement & Stakeholder Engagement | The general public will be engaged throughout the project, including the opportunity to participate in an online survey and interactive map, through social media, two workshops, and at various public hearings. In addition, a stakeholder group made up of professionals ranging from engineers and planners to first responders will be convened to expertly guide the outcomes of the project. You can learn more about those opportunities by reviewing the Ways to Get Engaged page.

Study Area

The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization has contracted Benesch to carry out the planning activities for the LECOM & Village of the Arts Mobility Study in partnership with the City of Bradenton.