Letters: Wider riverwalk would be safer for walkers, bikers

Mike Dawson and the River Alliance have worked hard to improve our community. Unfortunately their legacy will be tarnished due to inadequate design of the riverwalk.

New greenway to link Richland, Lexington counties and Riverbanks Zoo

The current and proposed paths are eight feet wide, making it difficult and dangerous for bicycles and skaters to dodge around pedestrians. That’s also too narrow to allow service trucks to maintain the trail, making work more difficult and expensive.

The Swamp Rabbit Trail from Greenville to Travelers Rest, which ranges from eight to 12 feet wide, has experienced conflicts between cyclists, skaters and pedestrians.

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials says two-directional shared paths should be at least 10 feet wide and that “Wider pathways, 11 to 14 feet, are recommended in locations that are anticipated to serve a high percentage of pedestrians … and higher user volumes.” That would certainly apply to the section from Columbia to Riverbanks Zoo and most of the existing system.

New shared-use paths should follow national guidelines to ensure a good experience for the public. As the Bicycle and Pedestrian Information Center explains, good planning and design of shared-use paths are crucial to provide for safe use, to maximize long-term benefits and reduce future maintenance problems.

Please widen the new trail, especially from downtown to Riverbanks Zoo.