City imagines foot-bike link to downtown
Loop planned in south-central neighborhoods
Link (JG)

“The city scheduled a public information session Thursday evening to gather input on its plans to make it easier to travel by foot and bicycle in the city’s south-central region.

Heather Pressley, deputy director of community development, said the effort arose from the city’s desire to connect the Renaissance Pointe housing development to downtown. The project includes the 36 block area near downtown bordered by Hanna Street, Creighton Avenue, South Anthony Boulevard and Pontiac Street. It has the capacity for 400 new homes and 100 rehabilitated homes.

But as city leaders examined the area, they found a more comprehensive approach was necessary. The plan calls for connecting numerous areas in the city’s core, including Renaissance Pointe, downtown and Harrison Square.

Pam Holocher of the city’s planning department said it is becoming more important to residents to be able to walk and bike to different places. While those activities were once thought of strictly as recreation, she said rising fuel prices means they are now becoming important modes of transportation.”

City explores idea of new biking/walking trail
Link (WANE)

“An Indianapolis-based architecture and planning firm is launching a feasibility study to see what it would take to link Renaissance Pointe with Harrison Square.

In this first phase, developers will study how much it would cost and who would pay for it - and whether the concept would work for people who live in those areas.

Landscape architect Meg Storrow says there are challenges. “I think the hard part is how do you fit a new idea into an existing place and how you can visualize that. People are so used to using their car to get around.”

The bike/pedestrian trail could also connect to the River Greenway - and beyond. But for now, it’s far from a done deal.

“It will depend on the will of the people to make it happen and I see a lot of interest,” explains Storrow.

The feasibility study should wrap up next month.”