The Downtown Bikeways work group has been talking to people that live, work, go to school, eat, or recreate along the corridor that connects downtown with Loring Heights, Stevens Square, Whittier, and neighborhoods to the south. One person that we spoke with is Mike Becker, who lives along the corridor.
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Where do you like to go along LaSalle-Blaisdell or 1st Ave S?
We live in the neighborhood, and I walk with my young children every day to school, to parks, or to restaurants. I like walking with my kids, but I worry about their safety. They’re still learning how to stay safe while they negotiate traffic and cross the street.
How does the car traffic on these streets affect your life?
My son and I were almost hit by a driver recently while we were crossing 1st Ave in a crosswalk. We had the walk sign. The driver wasn’t paying enough attention. I wish that the street crossings were designed with the safety of pedestrians more in mind.
What are some parts of the city where the streets and sidewalks feel safe to you?
The new [Capital City Bikeway] in St. Paul feels really safe; it gives pedestrians a head start walking across the street. I like that.
Would you like to see protected bike lanes on LaSalle-Blaisdell Ave S and 1st Ave S?
I don’t really like to bike, but I’d like to have more protected bike lanes, like the ones on 26th and 28th. I like those because it shortens the distance to cross the street. It seems to me that being conscientious about the safety of bicyclists helps to keep pedestrians safe, too.
If you would like to share your support for a safe, protected bikeway that will connect downtown with Loring Heights, Stevens Square, Whittier, and neighborhoods to the south, please fill out this digital postcard.
