In case you are living under a rock, Cleveland needs a new bridge on Interstate 90. Despite requests from citizens and public figures, ODOT has no intention of even considering a pedestrian lane or bike path for our new bridge. If we want to make Cleveland a more sustainable city that is built on dense urban neighborhoods and connectivity, rather than the past standard of flight to the suburbs and single car commuters, we need to think in a more progressive way. Of course, I am left to think that perhaps ODOT is really not invested in Cleveland as much as they are in the status quo and getting paid. It’s not like adding a pedestrian and bike lane on a freeway bridge is a completely new idea. There are multiple cities across the country who have done it already. ODOT’s argument is a concern over safety and maintenance. They also say that there are plenty of other places to cross the river by foot or bicycle that are safer and more convenient. Really? I wouldn’t call the Lorain-Carnegie bridge a safer byway than I-90 with a separate lane with a concrete barrier. I would say that the spokeperson from ODOT who had the nerve to say such a thing has not been on a bike in the Near West side anytime recently. I say go over their heads and send your thoughts to the governor himself, or maybe your state rep or senator. Isn’t this an election year? Make your voice heard.
The one really cool thing about what is going on these days in NE Ohio is participation by its citizenry. Now that you have seen this video, go to Green City Blue Lake to learn more about how you can get involved or add your name to a letter to Governor Strickland.
