A Vision for Active Transportation
The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) is beginning work on a comprehensive, region wide Naugatuck Valley Active Transportation Plan (NVATP) that will aim to coordinate efforts across our 19 municipal members.
By compiling best practices and standards, NVCOG aims to encourage increased access to safe, convenient walking/rolling and biking facilities.
Building a More Inclusive Built Environment
The NVCOG supports the growth of our region in an environmentally and economically sustainable way and aims to create a built environment that is welcoming and functional for people of all ages and abilities. Improving active transportation facilities provides additional options to those who cannot use a motor vehicle while also encouraging physical activity and healthier lifestyles for residents.
Aligning with Connecticut’s Momentum: Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety
The Naugatuck Valley Active Transportation Plan (NVATP) is being prepared at a time when the State of Connecticut has increasing momentum on pedestrian and bicyclist safety and seeks to build on that progress. In the Connecticut 2021 legislative Session, several key changes occurred that prove relevant to this plan, including the creation of a statewide Vision Zero Council and many changes to the State’s pedestrian and bicyclist protection laws. This momentum continued into 2023, as the Connecticut General Assembly passed a comprehensive traffic safety bill, implementing several recommendations of the Vision Zero Council.
Previously, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) established the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board whose main purpose is to ensure that the needs of non-motorized users are considered in a statewide context. CTDOT has also previously prepared a statewide active transportation plan, originally released in 2015 and most recently updated in 2019. A complete streets policy was adopted in 2014. In 2023, the CTDOT expanded this policy, releasing new Complete Streets design criteria that is to be incorporated into all transportation projects.
Achieving Roadway Safety Goals
In 2022, the NVCOG Board endorsed CTDOT’s Complete Streets Policy, formally recognizing Complete Streets as a design and policy priority for all projects in the region. NVCOG plans to develop a regional Complete Streets Plan, which will include a more specific regional policy. Implementing Complete Streets at a regional level will be crucial in helping NVCOG achieve our Vision Zero goal of eliminating all roadway related fatalities and serious injuries by 2050.
Public Involvement Process
NVCOG staff is currently developing a public engagement process to ensure that we reach a broad audience with this study. In addition to traditional public information meetings, we will be posting a region wide survey beginning in Fall 2023 and conducting a broad series of stakeholder conversations with organizations and leaders throughout the region. Please send any outreach ideas or requests to Elliot Wareham at ewareham@nvcogct.gov.
Stay Updated on Social Media
In addition to this website, NVCOG staff will keep you up-to-date regarding the project’s status and progress on NVCOG’s social media platforms, which include Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Helpful Resources
Linked below are resources from the CT Department of Transportation, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Board, and the new Vision Zero Council highlighting some of the work happening at the state level around active transportation.
- CTDOT Bike/Ped Dashboard
- Connecticut Active Transportation Plan
- Statewide Bicycle Planning Network (Map)
- Connecticut Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board
- Connecticut Vision Zero Council
- Watch for Me CT
Existing Walkways and Bike Routes
The Naugatuck River Greenway and Farmington Canal Heritage Trail both cross through region, providing vital connections between places and recreational opportunities for our residents.
Study Duration
This study will take place over the next 18 months, with an expected final draft available to the public in summer of 2024.
Existing Conditions Report
NVCOG is writing the existing conditions report, a foundational step in the study process. A draft of the existing conditions report will be available in spring of 2024.
Public Outreach
In the fall of 2023, NVCOG will host public outreach efforts to gather valuable insights from residents, stakeholders, and the general public.
Stay Tuned for Updates
As the project progresses, staff will provide ongoing updates and insights into the development of the Active Transportation Page. Be sure to check back for a more comprehensive and detailed timeline.
Access Information and Materials
Documents related to this study will be uploaded here when available.
