Dear ODOT...

Hundreds of thousands of cyclists could enjoy the views from this bridge each year.Over the past few months, we've been having a fascinating exchange with ODOT officials about the possibility of including a bicycle/pedestrian path on the I-90 Bridge over the Flats as part of the $1 billion Innerbelt reconstruction project. Go here to read about the idea.

Perhaps the most interesting part of the exchange has been a series of letters — first, my assertion that a bike/pedestrian facility should be done and would be an exciting amenity for the region; second, ODOT's rejection of the idea as totally impossible; and, third, my rebuttal of all of ODOT's points.

Together, the letters illuminate very different world views about the role of transportation in the redevelopment of great cities.

December 21, 2006 - 4:54pm

Follow-up questions

Stephen Gross Says:

ODOT sounds moderately sympathetic to your interests. I have a few questions:

(1) There's a large discrepancy in the per-sq.ft. cost of a bike lane. How did you come up with $75/sq.ft? How did ODOT come up with $350/sq.ft?

(2) I understand your point about the towpath connecting conveniently with the I-90 bridge, but otherwise I think ODOT has a good point. The other two bridges north of I-90 are way more accessible. Why not let the interstate system stand on its own, and focus on multi-use projects on smaller roads?

Thanks for your thoughts,

--Steve

Awed by my mastery of urban policy? Get more at grossreport.blogspot.com!

December 21, 2006 - 1:50pm

going it alone

Susan Miller Says:

David,
The exchange is great to read. Clearly you have given them what they need to turn their thoughts around on cycle/pedestrain access to whatever crossing they choose. I wonder where the cyclists and pedestrians are in this fray. Has Ecocity rallied the troops for this one? Have the cycling clubs planned a ride across the bridge?  It could be a test of the GCBL to see how many interested parties would sign a petition to help them consider more voices. Maybe this is happening, and I just don't know about it. Cyclists and pedestrians -- are you reading this? Please report on your efforts... Good work David!

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