Photography courtesy of Trailnet
The Calm Streets project puts pedestrians first.
Who says you can’t fight city hall? In 1988, cyclists asked St. Louis’ mayor for a trail along the riverfront. An organization called Trailnet was formed. Members set to work on
- That new Riverfront Trail
- Restoration of the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
- The wildly popular Grant’s Trail in St. Louis County
Then Trailnet pushed to create an entire Great Rivers Greenway District and its counterpart in Illinois. Success meant Trailnet could gracefully transition from capital projects to advocacy and education,
- Working with more than 30 municipalities to create bicycle and pedestrian master plans
- Advancing Vision Zero safety measures, on the assumption that Missouri’s traffic deaths and serious injuries are preventable. (Their work’s cut out: In 2015, pedestrian deaths rose more than 30 percent over the previous year and bicyclist deaths rose 55 percent.) Trailnet’s also pushing for a state ban on texting while driving; Missouri’s one of only three states without one.
- Helping create Complete Streets that make it easier to walk, bike, or take MetroLink.
- Educating kids, cyclists, and community leaders.
- Planning Calm Streets that slow speeding and increase safety.
- And organizing the annual Ride the Rivers, the only century ride in the U.S. with two ferry crossings.
At the moment, Trailnet is focused on identifying the best routes for pedestrians and bicyclists. For years it’s been collaborating with St. Louisans from all walks (and cycles, forgive the pun) of life, figuring out which streets would make the most practical and enjoyable walking and biking network. The study corridors extend north to O’Fallon Park and Fairground Park and south to the Missouri Botanical Garden and Cherokee Street, making sure future transit projects connect seamlessly.
On Thursday, March 22, at 6 p.m., an open house at the Thomas Dunn Learning Center will seek further input.
Meanwhile, it's time to celebrate three decades of progress. Since there's been enough walking and cycling to work up some thirst, a new brew will make its debut this Thursday, March 22: The Trailnet 30, created by Urban Chestnut and baptized at Pint Night, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Urban Chestnut’s Grove Bierhall. When you RSVP, you can preorder the limited-edition, insulated stainless pint glass, which will keep you out of the long line and get you a first beer free. And those who attend both March 22 events get the pint glass for free. Raise it to toast the region's greener, livelier future.
