This week, October 2-8, 2023
Porchfest was so great again this year! I love it because it brings us all together with a love of music, and especially because almost everyone gets to the porches by bike, scooter, or walking.
The city feels much safer without so many cars.
Do you feel dependent on a car? Why?
Do we have enough options for equitable mobility in Asbury Park?
People with disabilities or elderly can get around in a city that has 24/7 transit like VIA in Jersey City – Like rideshare but better.
I’ve discussed this with our city transportation manager for years, and it remains in the “discussion phase” …
People who can’t easily walk, often can ride a bike or a trike – using it as their best form of mobility. We believe that residents and visitors would benefit from reinstating a robust bike share program.
Do you feel safe walking or rolling?
Asbury Park is only 1.4 sq miles. It should be walkable and rollable for everyone.
Traffic in Asbury Park swells on weekends and in the summer, but it’s often a problem throughout the year within the business district. People driving around looking for parking is traffic.
When I ask moms and dads if they’ll allow their kids to ride bikes to school the reply is, “No – because of drivers.” Parents don’t realize that they are traffic because they’re driving their kids to school.
Sidewalks are cracked, too many curbs don’t have ADA ramps, and bike lanes are only painted stripes, so it’s a deterrent to people who might be willing to walk or roll – because of #toomanycars, drivers who are speeding, and running stop signs.
What can YOU do?
Drive less, or don’t drive at all this week, and find out what it feels like to be a walker or roller in our city. You’ll benefit from the exercise, the fresh air, and the social opportunities of being out of the car!
People without a car or unable to drive should be able to get to where they need to go safely and effectively. But every day, Americans who can’t drive – approximately 25 percent of the population – face significant barriers to mobility such as inadequate sidewalks, poor transit, lack of connectivity and dangerous roads. The needs of non-drivers are too-often disregarded in transportation infrastructure and policies.
Onward~
Polli Schildge Editor APCSC
