Project DTO: People Priority

Bike and pedestrian accessibility top the priority list to advance Downtown Orlando, according to Project DTO’s Access Committee.  Think the Orlando Urban Trail becoming the connecting “spine” for a network of bikeways. A pedestrian bridge over Colonial Drive. And, a linear park underneath I-4 with recreation options – skate parks, art exhibits, or iconic destinations.

Other findings included converting the multi-lane one-way streets back to two-way traffic like Orange Ave. Such conversions could encourage greater pedestrian and bike activity and, studies show, calmer streets are more livable, prosperous, and safer.  Dan Tracy, of the Orlando Sentinel, recently reported there is a movement to consider just this.  Many balk because it will slow down traffic and increase pedestrian injuries. Traffic is already slow through downtown so why wouldn’t we consider encouraging people to stop, shop, and dine by offering on-street parking, bike racks, and visible ped crossings.

Look no further than downtown Louisville where their two-way conversion significantly reduced crime and collisions, increased property values, business revenues, taxes and bike/ped traffic. Check out the article for details.