Riverside Approves Creation of Bike and Pedestrian Plan

The plan aims to improve safety for walkers and cyclists in the village

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Riverside officials have approved the creation of a comprehensive bike and pedestrian plan for the village. The plan, to be developed by the village's engineering firm, will identify near-term, mid-term, and long-term projects to enhance safety and connectivity for those walking and cycling through Riverside. The plan will be created with community feedback and is expected to connect to potential grant funding opportunities.

Why it matters

The new bike and pedestrian plan responds to calls from local advocates for safer streets and a commitment to reducing traffic-related injuries and deaths. By developing a comprehensive plan, Riverside is taking a proactive step to improve mobility and safety for all residents, including children walking or biking to school.

The details

The plan will be developed by Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd., Riverside's contracted engineering firm. The engineers will review existing policies and transportation plans, analyze current conditions, and categorize potential projects for near-term, mid-term, and long-term implementation. The final plan will connect some projects to specific grant funding opportunities that the village can pursue.

  • On February 19, 2026, Riverside officials approved the creation of the bike and pedestrian plan.
  • The plan is expected to be completed within the next 12 months.

The players

Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd.

Riverside's contracted engineering firm that will develop the bike and pedestrian plan.

Valerie Kramer

The founder of community cycling and transit advocacy group Ride Riverside, who thanked trustees for considering the plan.

Jessica Frances

The Riverside Village Manager, who noted a $55,000 budget for the plan development to allow for additional public engagement if needed.

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What they’re saying

“We asked for safer streets, traffic quality for our children and a commitment to reject the idea that traffic injuries are inevitable. Now, just months later, the village is moving forward to begin developing a comprehensive bike and pedestrian plan.”

— Valerie Kramer, Founder, Ride Riverside (rblandmark.com)

“If additional public engagement or other meetings are required, we have that buffer. We won't have to come back to the village for a change order.”

— Jessica Frances, Village Manager (rblandmark.com)

What’s next

The bike and pedestrian plan is expected to be completed within the next 12 months, at which point the village will begin implementing the identified near-term projects and pursuing funding for mid-term and long-term initiatives.

The takeaway

Riverside's approval of a comprehensive bike and pedestrian plan demonstrates the village's commitment to improving safety and connectivity for all residents, including the most vulnerable road users. By proactively developing this plan with community input, Riverside is positioning itself to access grant funding and make tangible improvements that will benefit walkers, cyclists, and drivers alike.