Edmond Works Toward More Than 100 Miles Of Bike Lanes, Trails

More than 100 miles of bike lanes and trails are in the works in Edmond. It's part of a push to get people healthy, active and happy. The bike lanes along University Avenue near the University of Central Oklahoma campus are now ready.

"I think it's excellent," Edmond resident Marilyn Pourtorkan said. "I think it's the best thing that's happened to Edmond."

Currently, is just shy of a mile -- a small first step to begin a long journey called the Edmond Bicycle Master Plan. Cyclists such as UCO student Aaron Harvey is anxious for additional lanes.

"Adding bicycle lanes is pretty nice," said Harvey. "It adds for safety."

Harvey is excited for what's in store, which is a 146.2-mile system of trails and lanes on streets and in parks. The estimated price tag is about $17.2 million. But, that cash will be spread out over the next 25 to 30 years. Most Edmond taxpayers tell News 9 they don't mind.

"I think we need to be focusing more on health and exercise, and I think this is the best way to do it," said Pourtorkan.

The plan is to connect one end of Edmond to the next, linking Arcadia Lake to the city center and beyond. City officials are still considering what's next in line. Currently, they are focused on central Edmond. The city hopes the master plan will have Edmond residents kick starting their cardio workouts and spark a trend throughout greater Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City officials say they are working with Edmond to connect both city's cycling systems.