What Denver Is Doing To Build Bike Lanes, Fix Sidewalks, Increase Composting, and More
Nov 27, 2024
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Amy Ford, the head of Denver's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, discusses the city's ongoing infrastructure improvements. She talks about the balance urban planners must strike between bike lane safety and community needs, particularly concerning the contentious 29th Avenue project. Ford also highlights challenges with e-scooter accessibility and the importance of urban planning for people with disabilities. Additionally, she addresses the frustrations with Denver's composting services and the goal of achieving a 50% waste diversion rate by 2027.
Denver's bike lane project emphasizes community engagement to balance safety and accessibility, leading to adjustments for traffic concerns.
The city's snow removal strategy prioritizes effective service on major roadways while addressing residential needs during winter storms.
Deep dives
Improvements to Protected Bike Lanes
Plans for the 29th Avenue bike lane project have generated significant discussion due to adjustments made after community feedback. Initial designs included more protected sections, but as local residents expressed concerns about traffic safety and access, alterations were made to incorporate regular bike lanes in certain areas. The project now includes unique speed cushions to slow traffic, pedestrian enhancements, and a balanced approach to mobility that aims to respect users' needs along the corridor. The design process reflects an ongoing commitment to community engagement and safety priorities, underscoring the importance of inclusive urban planning.
Winter Snow Removal Strategies
Snow removal remains a significant concern for residents as winter approaches, with past issues of ineffective plowing still fresh in their minds. The city has developed a nuanced plowing plan that focuses not only on arid conditions, but also on residential streets that can suffer from ice and snow buildup. With a fleet of 45 to 60 plows deployed during storms, their strategy includes prioritizing major roadways while also employing volunteer efforts to address smaller residential areas. The city has acknowledged the importance of effective service and has committed resources to enhance snow removal operations and customer satisfaction.
Sidewalk Maintenance and Expansion Plans
The implementation of the Denver Deserve Sidewalks plan reflects the city's dedication to improving pedestrian access, especially after the recent decision to charge property owners a flat fee for maintenance. With approximately 3,000 miles of sidewalks, the city is preparing to address significant gaps and repair existing infrastructure through a soon-to-be-launched sidewalk master plan. This initiative aims to prioritize areas with high demand and to develop a systematic approach for gradual expansion and improvement. As funding begins in January, residents can expect efforts to enhance accessibility across neighborhoods.
E-Scooter Corral Initiatives
The introduction of designated scooter parking areas has become a focal point for improving urban mobility and safety, particularly in densely populated downtown areas. With six million annual rides, the city's partnership with e-scooter providers now includes mandates for building dedicated parking corrals and encouraging responsible riding practices. Innovations such as geo-tech are being explored to ensure riders park in proper zones while addressing sidewalk safety concerns. Together, these efforts are intended to integrate e-scooters more effectively into Denver's transportation landscape, enhancing the overall user experience.
From bike lanes and sidewalks to trash pick-up and snow plowing, Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is in charge of the big things that make our city work. And if such issues make the news — like when Denver cyclists rallied against the city’s decision to ditch new bike infrastructure or when composting services got a big boost — someone has to answer for these choices. Amy Ford is the head of Denver DOTI and joins host Bree Davies to dig into some of the city’s biggest decisions that impact how we interact with this place every day.
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