Since late February 2017, the SAVES* and Connects 56th Street group has been actively engaged with making 56th Street safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, runners and cars. We have combined the initial efforts of concerned parents and residents of the Arcadia Osborn Neighborhood Association (AONA) with the needs of ACMNA residents. Our monthly meetings include members from the Phoenix Streets Department, a traffic engineer from CivTech, leaders from local parent/teacher associations, a representative from the District 6 Council Office, and members from both ACMNA and AONA.
The work so far has been to generate the necessary research and supporting information for our case with the City. A survey of over 600 local school attending families was conducted and shared with the City. Also several letters of support from schools, churches, neighborhood associations, and civic leaders have been handed over as well. In short, we are actively engaged in securing grant funding as a part of our planning process. The committee has already applied for several grants and is pleased that we have been granted $120,000 for design studies and concepts. In addition we have receivedanother $5,000 grant in support of the sustainable aspects of our proposal.
* = Safety, Aesthetics, Volume, Enjoyment, Speed
Existing safety issues
Connectivity is lacking. For example; there is no complete sidewalk or bike path that allows pedestrians (notably school kids) to walk or bicycle from the north end of 56th (Camelback Road) to the GreatHearts School, south of Osborne Rd.
Research and Design
We are very grateful to Scott Logan and Eileen Yazzie of the Phoenix Streets Department for all of their help and patience with this project. It is amazing how much is involved with planning a versatile thoroughfare that is safe and enjoyable for walkers, bicyclists, runners and cars.
Case Study
A recent street redesign project took place in Paradise Valley. The design transformed 56th Street North of McDonald Drive from an unexciting stretch of 2-lane Collector Street to a vibrant Visually Significant Corridorthat conveyed a pedestrian friendly sense of place.
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