South
Mountain Park attracts hundreds of cyclists a day, and many more on
Silent Sundays. These people come from all over the Valley, the State
and the world. While here, many buy food and other products. It easily
earns its designation as a Phoenix Point of Pride. Pedestrians (hikers
& skateboard users) enjoy the scenery and wildflowers.
There is one problem: Getting through the Park entrance while not using a
car. Central Ave is wide (a 2-way left turn lane, 4 vehicle travel
lanes, 2 bile lanes, curbs, and sidewalks) until the entrance. Suddenly
it is one lane each way, no shoulders (in fact, an immediate drop into a
crevice), up hill and around a blind turn. Just about all the things
that discourage cyclists.
An alternative for pedestrians and
cyclists is to upgrade the existing path from Mineral Rd. and 7th St.
(near Mystery Castle) of the east edge of the Activity Center parking
lot. Pictures of the areas can be seen at http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.234141143322872.52658.211604375576549&type=1
Phoenix Transportation and Parks departments are in favor of the
project, funding is what is needed. About $130k is needed, which, is a
small amount of the City budget. Phoenix Political Pedal Power
(p4bike@activist.com) is urging contributions and writing the Mayor and
Council persons to support and finance this project.
