Brentwood has a perplexing problem. Between tax dollars and a grant, around $800,000 was spent on new sidewalks between Metro Link and the Promenade, but in the busiest section people aren’t using them. They walk on the road.
The sidewalks follow Hanley Industrial Court, and were placed on the south side because of trees on the north side. However walking on the north side is the shorter route, and people often walk in the street.
“It’s definitely a safety issue,” Ward 4 Alderman Tom Kramer said, “but maybe with some creativity, maybe with some signage, maybe with some pavement markings we can change behavior.”
He said it’s a law that if there is a sidewalk it needs to be used.
Ward 2 Alderman Lee Wynn suggested arresting offenders, but said then they’d need to be arrested all over the city.
“At some point we have to say, aren’t you kind of responsible for yourself?” Wynn said. Ward 3 Alderman Keith Robertson agreed.
Kramer said he doesn’t know if people see the sidewalk on the south side. City Administrator Bola Akande said they know it’s there but are choosing to walk on the north side.
The committee decided to put up signs for 90 days with a message such as “Sidewalk to the Promenade.”
Really! Walking on the other side of the street makes it too far! Just how out of shape are these walkers? Next thing they’ll complain about is they aren’t moving sidewalks. Next time, spend the money where it will be appreciated.
I am confused… the photos look as if they are really in the Hanley Industrial Court, however where the Metro Link lets you off at the Brentwood Station, there are also no sidewalks, but it is not the place in the photos.
I am extremely frustrated that there are no sidewalks, and no convenient way to get from the Brentwood Metro Link station to the Promenade shops. I am not sure how it relates to the Hanley Industrial Court.
If I am missing something, please clarify,
“Ward 2 Alderman Lee Wynn suggested arresting offenders, but said then they’d need to be arrested all over the city.”
Typical Nanny state attitude.
I love that the new sidewalks went in, but they should have put them where the foot path wear marks were.
Having walked that many times, and it feels weird to walk on the sidewalk side of the road, when you know the other side is closer.
How ridiculous! If I want to walk in the street I will.