In a recent government meeting, officials discussed plans to enhance public transportation and pedestrian safety along River Road, a corridor identified as a high-crash area. The conversation highlighted the need for small interventions to improve bus transit efficiency, such as better bus shelters and improved sidewalk connections. A key focus was on enhancing pedestrian crossings, particularly at busy bus stops, to ensure safety for those traveling to and from the bus.

Officials expressed a commitment to prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety, with one member emphasizing the importance of making crossings safe and comfortable. Concerns were raised about the current treatment of River Road as a highway, which poses risks for pedestrians and cyclists. The meeting underscored the community's long-standing demand for improved safety measures, as reflected in public surveys.

While there was support for enhancing the corridor, some officials noted the challenges in expanding the existing MX (bus rapid transit) system due to increased construction costs and a decrease in ridership post-pandemic. Despite these challenges, there was optimism about moving forward with enhancements that would benefit both bike and pedestrian safety, aligning with the city’s Vision Zero goals aimed at eliminating traffic-related fatalities.

The discussion concluded with a commitment to further community engagement and detailed planning to ensure that the enhancements meet the needs of residents and improve overall safety along River Road.