Aerial View of Proposed Two-Way Cycle Track on Tucker Boulevard in Downtown St. Louis
Ready for Growth
Amidst the aging infrastructure and remnants of bygone eras, Midwestern cities are moving toward sustainable mobility solutions. From Detroit to Pittsburgh, urban neighborhoods are embracing an infrastructure overhaul with the help of American Rescue funds, state initiatives and local policies. These initiatives promise to reshape the urban landscape for generations to come.
The imperative for Rustbelt cities to embrace this mobility overhaul extends beyond just improving transportation infrastructure—it's about positioning themselves competitively in the national landscape. To remain viable and attract residents and jobs, these cities must demonstrate readiness for growth and development. Enhanced transportation policies are just one aspect here. With two major factors driving migration being economic opportunity and climate, Midwest cities must diversify their offerings and share a strong narrative about what life here can look like.
Projects
One notable project on the horizon is the Tucker Boulevard Cycle Track in St. Louis, set to break ground in 2024. This initiative will transform Tucker Boulevard, a major thoroughfare in downtown St. Louis, into a safe and dedicated space for cyclists. By creating a separated bike lane along Tucker Boulevard, cyclists will have a protected pathway to navigate. Learn more about the project and view construction documentation here.
Shown at the left is a diagram of proposed greenway initiatives in the city of St. Louis.
Similarly, Detroit and Pittsburgh are making strides in enhancing their cycling infrastructure. Detroit's Joe Louis Greenway, spanning 31 miles, will traverse diverse neighborhoods, connecting communities and providing vital access to recreational opportunities, green spaces, and cultural landmarks.
Notice in the cross section below that the "clear zones," used by pedestrians and cyclists are growing wider. Similar to the Tucker Boulevard Cycle Track Project, Detroit's Joe Louis' project shows that vehicular lanes are being reduced or eliminated in favor of larger shared paths and bike lane networks.
To learn more about the sweeping mobility infrastructure and accessibility changes in the United States, check out this read.
Shown above is a cross section of the Joe Louis Greenway in Detroit.
As Rustbelt cities continue to embrace this mobility overhaul, the future looks brighter than ever. By prioritizing sustainability and accessibility these cities are not only revitalizing their urban cores but also setting an example for cities around the country. The cross sections of the future are taking shape, and Rustbelt cities are leading the way towards a more vibrant, connected, and resilient urban landscape.