Last month we sat down with MODOT, Emory Sapp and Sons, Councilman Ian Thomas, and representatives from the City, PedNet, the MO Bike Federation, and the disabilities community to discuss access and safety concerns for people who will bike, walk, or wheel from the Business Loop under I-70. The specific areas of concern were West Blvd (the construction of two new roundabouts), Garth (the improvement of the road and sidewalk under I70), and Rangeline (the construction of a "dogbone" or modified roundabout).
The plans for the new roundabouts will increase safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists (a key point since it's the only way for residents south of the Business Loop to access Cosmo Park). The City has also agreed to add landscaping to provide an attractive gateway into The Loop. Even better, we will be getting a crosswalk just east of the roundabout (roughly from Sexton across to the grocery stores).
The sidewalk under Garth will be improved and we'll be advocating for a second sidewalk on the west side of the street in the next round of capital improvements.
At Rangeline, we still have a few concerns about traffic speed and bike access which we asked to be addressed.
We will be attending a follow up meeting on September 29 to review some changes and offer input on signage, crossings, and pavement markings. We'll keep everyone posted on these important improvements.
