Want to get a little insight into what your paving, striping, or sealcoating job might involve in the not-too-distant future? Take a look at what 52 towns and cities, six counties, and 10 regional governments have already instituted. The American Association of Retired Persons AARP Bulletin (I read it in the checkout line) reports that walkers, bikers, and the disabled might be the driving forces behind major changes to city streets and intersections.
In an article titled StreetSmart AARP focuses on Kirkland, WA, which it says might just have the streets of the future. Officials from towns and cities throughout the country are visiting Kirkland to see firsthand its use of wider, raised sidewalks; flowered medians; flashing lights imbedded in crosswalks; bike lanes; ramps to crosswalks and more. The Kirkland approach is termed "complete streets" and is designed to allow pedestrians, bicyclists, and riders of public transportation to safely share the road with cars and trucks.
Will "smart streets" offer more opportunity?
February 26, 2008
