City Seeks Input on Throckmorton Bulb-Out

If you build it, will they park their bikes there?

That's the question being asked by City Hall as it proposes to modify the northeast corner of Miller and Throckmorton avenues to add bike racks, slow down turning cars and shorten the lengths of crosswalks at the intersection.

The proposal came from the city's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, which was established by the council in 1999 and reestablished in 2008 to update the January 2003 Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan. The proposal is part of the plan's goals to add bicycle parking and encourage bike trips to downtown, and to enhance pedestrian safety and manage traffic.

The project would extend the sidewalk by a radius of 15 feet into what's called a "bulb-out" into the street. The additional sidewalk space would provide for approximately 14 bike parking spaces in a secure, visible downtown location. By shortening the length of the crosswalks, it also hopes to improve pedestrian visibility and reduce the speed at which cars turn at the intersection.

The proposal doesn't call for any reduction in downtown parking, and the existing clock tower, tree and bench would not be impacted.

The city has posted a short survey on its Web site seeking public input on the proposal. The survey includes the following questions:

1. Do you have safety concerns when walking across Miller Avenue between the Depot and La Coppa?

2. Would bike parking in this location encourage you to ride your bike to downtown for trips you would normally use your car?

3. What elements do you feel are important to include in order to maintain the aesthetics of this central corner? Colored concrete, landscaping, paving materials, and "other" are listed as possible answers.

4. If you use bike racks, do you have a preference for specific type? Which bike racks are the easiest to use and why?

5. Do you have other concerns about adding the proposed bulb-out or bike parking at this location?

The city is accepting public input until Sept. 15, at which time Public Works Director Wayne Bush will develop a plan to take to the City Council.

Visit the city's Web site to complete the survey.