Three major connection projects are slated to open in the next year, bringing a comprehensive regional bikeway network one step closer to reality.
The Urbanist’s Ryan Packer describes a series of new pedestrian bridges that will connect more parts of Seattle’s Eastside and provide better access to local light rail stations. According to Packer, “all three bridges are connecting areas that have long been divided by car infrastructure, not natural barriers, and all have been in the works for well over a decade.”
The bridges—the Totem Lake Connector, the Overlake Village Pedestrian Bridge, and Redmond Technology Center Bridge—will open between this summer and next year. The Totem Lake Connector, which will open this July in Kirkland, “will fill in the final gap on the city’s backbone of a regional multi-use trail, the Cross Kirkland Corridor.” The Redmond bridge, a fully covered span over SR 520, is funded by Microsoft (whose split campus will be connected by the bridge) and owned by the city.
Packer expresses optimism that these bridges will create “invaluable” connections to Kirkland and Redmond’s off-street bike and pedestrian trail networks and raise demand for more bike infrastructure.
FULL STORY: Coming Pedestrian Bridges Will Create Invaluable Connections on the Eastside
Houston Bike Advocates Propose Two Bridges Across White Oak Bayou
An as-yet-unfunded proposal to build two new bridges would create essential connections and help riders avoid a mile-plus detour.
Seattle Redesigns Long-Delayed Ballard Bike Trail
Seattle officials hope a simplified design that avoids relocating railroad tracks will let the decades-old Ballard bike trail project move forward.
Bike and Pedestrian Improvements Proposed for Seattle Light Rail Stations
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Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
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