Local Bike Paths
May 21 - Eric Iwerson from the City of Tempe's Community Development Dept. discussed Tempe's approach to planning, funding, and designing projects and pathways around the city. He explained that most of the bike and walking pathways were funded with federal dollars along with a city grant match, and often with support from local businesses. The pathway development projects were chosen based on their ability to activate an area (bringing people together); reinvent a corridor (celebrate history); or provide an opportunity for enhancement. Many of the pathways have been developed along the many miles of Tempe’s existing canals. Eric described several specific projects and showed us numerous photos showing the beauty of the finished projects. In some cases we were also able to see before and after photos - which underscored the value of the project. The city is taking a very creative and community-inclusive approach to these pathways and is justifiably very proud of their accomplishments.