since we moved a few blocks away. It strikes me that the Village has some
opportunities to improve walkability. In short, crossing Ford Parkway or
Cleveland is frightening, and the streetscape is in very poor condition. I'd
be interested in hearing about any efforts to address this.
The recent upgrades to pedestrian crossing signals has helped, but I hope that
more can be done over time. I think one of the biggest factors is the sweeping
curve the curb makes on each corner which adds around 6-10 feet of traffic
conflict to any pedestrian crossing (incidentally I have one of these poorly
designed intersections right in front of my house at Fairview and Highland
Parkway). Modern design principles often call for bump-outs to narrow the
street, or pedestrian refuges in the median where pedestrians can dive for
cover when cars careen at them. I also hope that the continuation of Cretin
Avenue through the former Ford plant site will help spread out the traffic.
I've looked at the sample plans and I'd really like to use a future curving
Cretin-Montreal connector.
I remember the brick planters and sidewalks being put in when I was a kid.
They were really nice looking in the 80s but clearly they've outlived their
serviceable life. Does anyone know what the plans are to replace the walks and
planters? I hate to think how another assessment would affect businesses, but
I think they could grow their revenue a lot with a more walkable and attractive
environment.