HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-28-21 Public Comment - L. Kudrna - Kagy Blvd ExpansionFrom: Liz Ann Kudrna
To: Agenda
Subject: Kagy Blvd expansion
Date: Sunday, February 28, 2021 11:45:04 AM
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Hello
I am writing to oppose the Kagy 4 lane expansion as it is planned.
I was not able to attend the meeting earlier this year. But am glad I
have a chance to have my voice heard.
It has come to my attention that there have been no traffic data
collected from perhaps 2015...? Bozeman traffic has changed
drastically since then.
I would like to propose that we spend a little time and money on
studying the car, pedestrian and bicycle traffic on Kagy stretching
from Highland (and possibly Bear Canyon) to S. 19th.
I understand that there are some tunnels for pedestrians in the
current proposal. As a wheelchair user and hancyclist, a tunnel would
not prove very accessible to me. Going down a tunnel and then having to
push a wheelchair back up is very difficult and dangerous for many that
have mobility impairments or those pushing a stroller.
I have studied over the past 9-10 years with Mark Fenton, (an expert
on walkable/ accessible communities and continueous streets) on
facilitating walk audits and what safe routes to schools look like. Mark
has come and facilitated several walk audits and trainings in Bozeman
over the years.
What is proven, is that the wider the road, then the more traffic
comes and it is also faster and less safe for anyone that is not in a
motor vehicle. It seems to me that the current plan is taking cars into
the most consideration.
What I would love to see with a road widening is a 5 foot wide bike
lane as well as the present sidewalks, and some trees and greenery in a
wide island. The Island would provide a safe place for pedestrians to
stop if they cant make it across the already wide street. It would also
help to slow down traffic to a reasonable pace. There also could be
some turn lanes.... specifical for turning into and out of the Fairway Dr.
I have nearly hit someone turning out of there and also nearly been hit
turning out of that street . Has a round about been discussed for that
or any area. Round abouts are proven to slow down traffic but also keep
it moving. . I will attach a coolround about that is inclusive and works
that I saw a video of. Will you please look at this alternative and
others ? I am sure there must be a better alternative than to widen
the road to 4 lanes.
I also would like to suggest that a couple bus stops could be included
and possibly would be used by students and professors at the college.
I would absolutely be willing to help facilitate a walk audit at several of
those corners free of charge.
Let's make Kagy, Bozeman and MSU a bike and pedestrian friendly
community. Let's try to keep minimal cars on the road and encourage
people to use transportation that supports a healthy community that is
concerned with climate change.
I appreciate your time.
EXHALE…………
Liz Ann Kudrna
Body in Balance Pilates Studio
bbalancepilates.com
(406)581-7117