We've written here frequently that Florida has been found to be the nation’s deadliest state for pedestrians and one of the worst for bicyclists, as well. Hillsborough County has been ranked as having the highest bike fatality rate in the state. A group of Tampa activists have made a plan to eradicate the problem, or at least improve upon pedestrian safety.
The group is called Green Artery, they want to link 20 neighborhoods in Central Tampa with bike trails connecting existing green spaces and parks. Their proposal covers an area of 20 square miles with paths serving neighborhoods including Seminole Heights, Historic Ybor, Downtown Tampa, and Channelside, according to a report on Fox 13 News.
Mayor Bob Buckhorn supports the plan, which has already been presented to the city’s Parks & Recreation Department.
If all goes according to their plan, and the support and funding come through, organizers hope to have the bike trails ready by 2020.
Great idea, Tampa! If the plan is successful, perhaps the idea will take off and spread to other parts of the state. Florida has too many bike and pedestrian accidents, and it’s time for something to be done about it.
