Baker Neighborhood Greenway Based on best practices research and community input, this proposal envisions a flexible neighborhood greenway that connects proposed multi-functional stormwater infrastructure. Rooted in Baker’s community values, this greenway will knit together the city’s suburban fabric to foster new resilient futures for the city of Baker. Constructing a series of greenways along canals and drainage ways creates space for bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages to move safely through town while increasing the capacity for stormwater retention. Greenways increase the area along the drainage ways able to hold excess stormwater during heavy rains that may cause flooding. The proposed network builds upon Baker’s 2020 bicycle and pedestrian plan to connect parks within Baker and allow non-vehicular traffic to access Greenwood Park and BREC Zoo. The routes along roads include different types of bike and pedestrian pathways such as sidewalks, shared-use paths (bikes and pedestrians), shared bike lanes (bikes and cars), and buffered bike lanes (physical barrier between bikes and cars) in accordance with the master plan. The space available for the pathway varies from place to place within the city. As such, the type and size of a pathway may vary along a single route, as well as between routes. This plan expands the master plan by adding in greenways along waterways, such as drainage canals and bayous. This increases opportunities for cyclists and pedestrians to move through the city away from cars. In the engagement process many residents wanted pathways away from cars for safety. Placing these pathways along waterways provides multiple functions by expanding stormwater storage capacity, providing transportation connections, and encouraging active lifestyles. Creating space for being in the natural environment also improves individual health + wellbeing.
Map of proposed waterfront trails connecting bike/ped plan to existing parks.
Vision for a Healthy & Resilient Baker
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