ST. LOUIS — Runners, cyclists, and those who take public transportation were just a few of the groups that joined in for a 2.5-mile walk along Jefferson Avenue in St. Louis on Sunday.
This group of residents and members of the Saint Louis Coalition to Protect Cyclists and Pedestrians brought their thinking caps and tools like speed radars to one of the city's busiest roads to brainstorm ways to make the stretch of road safe and inclusive for everyone.
"One of the things that we're really trying to do out here is really get people aware of just the infrastructure for cyclists, pedestrians, transit riders and other folks who utilize these streets and people deserve to be here safely," said Malik Lendell. "I've experienced a lot of dangerous intersections and just dangerous drivers who some times are just reckless and whether it's intentional or not, it still endangers people."
The tour from Chippewa to Choteau Ave. sparked many ideas for improvements to infrastructure.
"I know a lot of people are really wanting to see medians. I'm one of those people. I know a lot of people want to see bus lanes and bike lanes that are spacious I should say," Lendell added.
The road is on the city's list for a $46,000,000 Principal Arterial Safety Improvement Plan.
There are plan for resurfacing, lane reconfigurations/reductions, restriping, various ADA improvements, traffic signal retiming's, and additional shared/protected bicycle facilities.
That is promising information for Tarika Walton and her service dog who are moving to the city soon.
"Anywhere I need to go, I take the bus. I take the MetroLink and I try to get him out as much as I can," Walton said.
Walton identifies as blind and mentioned the unstable sidewalks were bad for her "weak ankles."
"I would really appreciate some smooth wide concrete sidewalks that don't trip people. Are easy for wheelchairs to roll over," Walton said.
Members also addressed the Green Line, a planned expansion of the MetroLink light rail system along Jefferson, and ensuring the project is mindful.
"At some point or another. Even if we drive we have to get out of our car to walk to where we are going," said Christian Frommelt, a partner with Car Free STL.
"We just want to see a Jefferson that is friendly towards all modes of transportation," Lendell said.
Construction for the massive improvement project will start Fall of 2024 and wrap up Fall of 2026.