City pedestrian projects include walking bridge, on-street parking

Some projects are in areas near student living.

By Ryan Schmitz

Published Feb. 5, 2009

In upcoming meetings, the Columbia City Council will consider several proposals to improve pedestrian safety throughout the city, including a walking bridge on William Street near the Boone Hospital Center.

"We believe the Council should allow for the construction of this bridge," said Bonnie Bourne, head of the East Campus Neighborhood Association. "We've seen the plans for the project, and it would be helpful to have a parking garage."

Bourne said she listens actively to the concerns of the many MU students who live in East Campus, and tries to consider their interests along with those of other citizens. Her group prioritizes its projects in order for pedestrians and motorists to move safely and efficiently through the area.

"I have regular conversations with students in the neighborhood," Bourne said. "We take into account the neighborhood as a whole when we talk to the council. Our main concerns are safety and quality of life."

Bourne said she is excited about the GetAbout Columbia project, and the opportunities it offers to improve transit throughout the city. Funded by a $22 million federal grant, the program seeks to improve the city's infrastructure by promoting biking, walking and other alternative modes of transportation.

In recent months, the city has focused on several different projects to enhance non-motorized transportation in the community.

On Monday, the council heard public comments regarding improvements to intersections of Providence Road with Business Loop 70 and Green Meadows Road. They also heard comments regarding the construction of a trail between the Grindstone Nature Area and Stephens Lake Park. At the meeting, the council also resolved to hear public comment regarding the addition of connectors to the MKT Trail on March 2.

"We focus on on-street parking, trail projects and bicycle parking," said GetAbout Columbia Project Manager Ted Curtis. "We may expand in the future, but we have no specific plans to grow to other areas right now."

GetAbout Columbia will offer Confident City Cycling classes beginning in March, to educate riders about bike maintenance and safety. The nine-hour course is available in one- or three-day options, and all lessons take place at the Stephens Lake Activities Center.

"The Confident City Cycling classes keep people safe, and they learn how to deal with traffic," Curtis said.

The cycling class offers educational tips and techniques to riders of all ages and experience levels. Curtis wants to involve the local student population in biking, to help their own physical health and the health of the environment.

"I see students all over Columbia on bicycles," he said. "They are a great way to make a positive environmental impact."