Washington Park Traffic Chaos - Part 1

"Road Way Usage" has become a critical issue for those who enjoy the benefits of one of the city's most beautiful parks.

Cyclists are accused of being reckless by the pedestrians. Complaints about skaters are that they don't consider themselves in the same classification as cyclists and therefore ride anywhere, in any direction, and occupy the entire lane with their swaying back and forth. Pedestrians are often seen crossing both lanes without looking, pushing strollers, being pulled by dogs on long leashes, and walking down the wrong side of the road, oblivious to their surroundings as they strut to their favorite tunes on their I-Pods.

Years ago Denver Parks and Recreation painted stripes down the middle of the road that passes around and through Washington Park. The objective was to separate cyclists from pedestrians. Later, they painted figures on the pavement to indicate in which direction and on which side of the road the different types of users should ride, walk or pedal. Last year speed limit signs along with radar were posted in the park to advise cyclists of their excessive speed.

But as traffic has increased, these measures have less and less effect on the users of the Park and chaos reigns.

If traffic were to decrease these issues would not be problematic. However, that is not going to happen. Traffic is going to increase. Users of the Park are going to be more numerous and more diverse. Different sports are going to practiced there. And the community is going to be faced with some important decisions regarding how to use this resource so that the most people can use it safely.

Friends and Neighbors of Washington Park (FANS) is an advocacy group for the Park. FANS has begun a dialogue with the Denver Parks and Recreation Department and representatives of the cyclists, pedestrians and others to try to identify short-term and long-term solutions.

If you want to get involved, join FANS. It costs nothing to participate.

Related Articles:

Washington Park Neighborhood Evolution

Washington Park Traffic Chaos Part 2

"Washington Park Cares," or Does it?

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