Why the Future of Spartanburg Should Be Walkable
A short introduction on the ideas this blog will expand upon
In this introductory post, I hope to express just how important walkability is to me and to a thriving community. For the past few years, I have been watching YouTube videos, reading urban planning books, and listening to lectures. I hope to use all of this knowledge I have soaked up to benefit the community that I care about. I hope you are along for the ride.
Why this, why now
Spartanburg is currently undergoing a transformative phase, marked by projects such as the renovation of the Montgomery Building in 2018 and the forthcoming baseball stadium. As the city expands, it is crucial to establish a clear vision for the desired outcome of this growth. Emphasizing the ways in which development can positively impact the residents of Spartanburg is essential.
Many could describe this as a make or break moment for Spartanburg. We have the opportunity to be on the ground floor of the positive changes that are coming to our community. There are many great people and organizations working behind the scenes to make this development work for the folks who live here. We can transform our city into a vibrant place where people can live, work, and play. We just have to advocate for it.
Why walkability
I hope to advocate for the prioritization of walkability and accessibility during this period of growth because it would benefit a wide range of folks. The development of downtown Spartanburg and its surrounding neighborhoods should better facilitate pedestrian and bicycle movement. While walking and biking are often perceived as recreational activities, they also serve as modes of transportation. Enhancing the comfort and feasibility of these transit methods can foster community building. Personally, I have experienced meaningful interactions during my walks around town, such as stopping to engage with acquaintances. Additionally, these activities provide a subtle yet effective form of exercise. Promoting alternative transit options can also contribute to reducing the number of cars on the road.
Currently, there are numerous areas in Spartanburg lacking sidewalks or featuring broken sidewalks that are not wheelchair accessible. Until Morgan Square was closed off to cars and pedestrianized, it was difficult for me to go out and eat with my mom because her chair did not fit in many restaurants and the sidewalk was too narrow for her to roll on it. Some individuals, due to financial constraints, rely on our limited bus system for transportation. They rely on the bus to get them to work. They rely on the bus to get them to the grocery store. Yet the bus system struggles to retain drivers and often has to cut routes. Moreover, certain multi-lane roads pose safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists alike due to the speed of traffic. I find myself in many perilous situations where I have the right of way as a pedestrian but still feel unsafe due to vehicles going 50 on a 35 just because they can.
In closing
These challenges faced by members of our community highlight the need for improvement. We can design better, safer places that benefit all who call Spartanburg home. Downtown development should adopt a more traditional, people-centered approach. Our neighborhoods should be places where children can safely play in the street and places where neighbors gather. Strengthening our public transit system is imperative, and establishing safe trails and bike lanes is equally essential. Folks should have more, healthier options when it comes to transportation. I am excited for the expansion of the Dan Trail System and the redevelopment of West Main. I hope that projects like these continue to improve our growing city, as I believe they are integral to the future of Spartanburg.
On this blog, you can expect me to discuss walkability in Spartanburg from a myriad of vantage points. Sometimes we may look at the past to see how Spartanburg is designed. Other times we may excitedly discuss the possible implications of trail expansions. Through all of it, I hope that my passion for and belief in Spartanburg shines through.
Until next time,
Liv.