California
Big victory laps for the state of California this round! California has been busy with a string of recent wins from improvements in zoning meant to address affordable housing and even more notably, a law that decriminalizes *crossing the street safely* (aka jaywalking). AB 2011 and SB 6 address affordable housing while AB 2097 abolishes parking minimums near public transit. All of these efforts are years in the making and are a direct reflection of advocacy efforts on the ground across the state.
Seattle, WA
Seattle’s City Council members voted 7-1 in favor of Councilmember Morales’s proposals for funding a $404,000 permanent biking and walking path from Seward Park to Mount Baker Beach. This proposal enjoys popular support and comes after successful car-free days along Lake Washington Boulevard. The projects are expected to roll out in 2023 -2024.
Colorado
“Victory! Colorado Cancels Highway Expansion, Funds Transit Instead” The plans to expand Interstate 25 have been shelved and funding reallocated for investments in walking, biking, and transit. The highway project would have added to the high air pollution happening in Denver and surrounding areas. The goal is to promote healthy and vibrant communities, and we’re looking forward to seeing the outcomes!
Providence, RI
Hope St. in Providence, RI is a robust area with local businesses and eateries but was designed to serve cars first, so it can feel intimidating to visit on foot. That changed last week. The Providence Streets Coalition put together a week-long pilot program to incorporate a two-way path for many people to utilize via foot, bike, skates, etc. Positive feedback from locals can really push to make this a permanent change for Hope St.
…And a new segment – #InfrastructureFails
Omaha, NE
On September 21st the Metro Smart Cities (co-chaired by Omaha Mayor, Jean Stothert) advisory board made the decision not to permanently extend the Market-to-Midtown Bikeway pilot project despite nearly unanimous support by the City Council and community. The board deemed the protected bike lane would be unsafe since it would be sharing the street with a streetcar. Once removed, the city will have no protected bike lanes in its 146 square miles.
