During a recent government meeting, officials engaged in a critical discussion regarding pedestrian safety and sidewalk infrastructure in the city. A key concern raised was the prioritization of investments, particularly the need to address pedestrian safety over the development of bicycle lanes. One participant emphasized that the majority of accidents in the past year involved pedestrians, suggesting that focusing on bicycle infrastructure while neglecting pedestrian needs would not be well-received by the community.

The dialogue also highlighted the importance of ensuring that sidewalks are available on at least one side of every street before considering the addition of sidewalks on both sides. This approach aims to create a more comprehensive and accessible pedestrian network throughout the city. Participants expressed frustration over fragmented sidewalk availability, which complicates safe travel routes for pedestrians, especially those with mobility challenges.

Concerns were raised about the city's ability to implement sidewalk projects on private property, which often requires neighborhood initiatives or Local Improvement Districts (LIDs). The discussion pointed out that the feasibility of closing gaps in the sidewalk network would vary significantly based on property rights and existing structures.

Funding for these infrastructure improvements was another focal point of the meeting. Officials acknowledged the challenges in securing funding for sidewalks compared to roadways, which typically have more accessible financial resources. The need for a targeted funding plan that addresses the 57% deficiency in sidewalk infrastructure was emphasized, with participants advocating for a strategic approach to secure necessary funds and improve pedestrian safety.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for a cohesive strategy to enhance pedestrian infrastructure, prioritize safety, and effectively allocate funding to address existing deficiencies in the city's sidewalk network.