There are many benefits to walking, running, and biking. Being active can lift people's moods, puts smiles on their faces, and improve their general health and well-being. However, when there are obstacles preventing people from safely biking to work or walking to their favorite cafe, it may become difficult to maintain an active lifestyle.

Recently, Quarryville Borough has received grants through PA WalkWorks and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (PA DCNR) to develop an Active Transportation Plan (ATP) for the borough. The ATP encourages people to use walking, running, and biking as a mode of transportation. The plan also addresses access to public transportation and access for users of mobility devices. In addition, the plan is intended to recommend actions, strategies, and potential funding sources to prioritize these improvements.

The borough has established an ATP committee, which consists of 15 members who represent a variety of sectors. The first public meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on Monday, March 21, at the Quarryville Borough's Municipal Building, 300 St. Catherine St., Quarryville. At the meeting, attendees can learn more about the ATP, voice their opinions, and share ideas for projects that would help encourage active transportation.

"The people should have a say in what the borough does to promote active transportation," said Scott Peiffer, Quarryville Borough manager. "If they have an opinion, they should make that opinion known. If they're passionate about something they feel needs changed or added or made or done, this is their chance to get it in that plan."

There is also a survey available at the municipal building. The survey can also be completed at http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QuarryvilleBoroATP. Data from the committee's input, the public's input, and the survey will be used to develop the ATP.

"We feel this is something we ought to go for," stated Peiffer. "Our vision would be that our projects will help people become more active and promote walking rather than always getting in (the) car."

For more information about the Quarryville Borough, visit https://quarryvilleborough.com.