The Bottom-Up Revolution Is…Advocating for Better Transit and Safe Streets
Aug 8, 2024
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Erik Lowe, founder of Reimagine Spokane, advocates for safer streets and enhanced transit options in Spokane. He discusses his $1 billion 'Spokane Reimagined' plan aimed at improving community connectivity over 20 years. The conversation reveals the importance of walkable neighborhoods and pedestrian-friendly spaces. Erik shares insights from personal experiences, the challenges of urban mobility, and the innovative AFTram project to boost connectivity. Community engagement and grassroots advocacy play key roles in shaping a better, more accessible urban landscape.
Erik Lowe emphasizes grassroots advocacy as essential for enhancing community engagement and advocating for safer streets and better transit solutions.
The $1 billion Spokane Reimagine proposal aims to transform urban infrastructure by prioritizing pedestrian safety and connectivity through innovative urban planning strategies.
Deep dives
Local Motive Training Sessions
A series of live workshops titled Local Motive Training Sessions is being organized to empower advocates with essential tools for strengthening their communities. These workshops, held every Thursday, aim to address a variety of pressing topics, including enhancing safety for school children, creating housing solutions that support neighborhoods, and fostering third places through tactical urbanism. The sessions will feature guest speakers from renowned organizations, allowing attendees to gain insights from experts in various fields. Each workshop will also include presentations from Strongtown staff, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Eric Lowe's Journey to Advocacy
Eric Lowe, a stay-at-home dad, founded Spokane Reimagine to campaign for safer streets and improved transit in Spokane, Washington. His journey towards urban advocacy began after experiencing the challenges of navigating a car-centric environment with his child, particularly when trying to access local amenities. The realization that street designs heavily prioritize vehicles over pedestrians inspired him to develop a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach toward urban planning. Through the $1 billion Spokane Reimagine proposal, he seeks to enhance safety and connectivity across the city over a span of 20 years.
Spokane Reimagine Proposal
The Spokane Reimagine initiative includes transformative proposals to repurpose over 140 miles of city streets, making them either car-light or entirely car-free. This ambitious plan aims to enhance the walking experience by adding features like bioswales, shade structures, and public amenities, while simultaneously decreasing vehicle traffic and maintenance costs. By creating a network of 'people-powered highways,' the proposal looks to reconnect communities that are currently segregated by high-traffic roads. Additionally, a proposed tram would provide safe public transit options, linking key neighborhoods and attractions to foster urban development.
Encouraging Community Engagement
To mobilize community support for urban advocacy, Eric emphasizes the importance of attending city council meetings and directly engaging with elected officials. By sharing specific concerns and proposed solutions, citizens can foster connections with government representatives and generate public interest in improving their local infrastructure. The approach of proposing bold ideas serves as a catalyst for dialogue, encouraging city leaders to consider alternative solutions for urban development. This grassroots advocacy aims to unite community members and build momentum around urban improvement initiatives, promoting a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
Erik Lowe is the founder of Reimagine Spokane, a grassroots group of citizens who are calling for safer streets and better transit in Spokane, Washington. He's also the designer of the “Spokane Reimagined” plan, a $1 billion proposal to improve safety and connectivity in Spokane over 20 years. On this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution, he joins host Tiffany Owens Reed to talk about transit advocacy and the importance of walkability and safe streets.