With gas prices the way they are, cities around the country have been improving their public transportation systems. Although St. Louis has attempted to hop on board with the Metro Link and bus system, the city and county are still largely inaccessible through public transit. But, don’t give up just yet: bicycles to the rescue!
Great Rivers Greenway is an organization who has taken the initiative since 2004 to build bike trails through St. Louis, and its neighboring cities, to facilitate alternative transportation that encourages positive health and promotes local economy. The project is a sect of Americorps and mainly run through volunteer and community efforts. Most of us are familiar with one of their most famous outcomes from the project: Grant’s Trail. Extending 8 miles across southwest St. Louis County, it is an easy trail that houses many St. Louisan’s sunny afternoons. Although the bike trails are great as an afternoon destination, the goal is to extend the trails throughout St. Louis and its surrounding areas as a means of transport.
On the macro level, the project will help to promote health and wellness, community cohesion, and affordable transportation for our progressive city. Over the past 7 years, the organization has developed over 80 miles of on-street bike lanes throughout St. Louis City, Kirkwood, Clayton and Maplewood. Street bicycling can be intimidating, especially to newly procured cyclists. Adequate bike lanes provide a safety zone for your commute as well as cautioning neighborhood traffic in the area to be more aware of cyclists and share the road.
Bike safe and have fun St. Louis!
Written by Ciara Brewer on behalf of Monica Brewer
