Denver’s Alameda Avenue Debate: A City Divided Over Road Diets and Commute Times
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston is facing mounting pressure over revisions to the East Alameda Avenue “road diet” project, sparking a heated debate about traffic flow, safety, and the influence of lobbying. The controversy, which began with a six-month battle between neighborhood groups and bike activists, has now escalated into accusations of political interference and concerns about the impact on everyday commuters.
The Road Diet Controversy: What’s at Stake?
The original plan for Alameda Avenue aimed to reduce the four-lane stretch to three lanes, prioritizing pedestrian safety and potentially slowing traffic. However, the city revised the plan to maintain four lanes with “turn pockets,” a move critics claim was influenced by lobbying efforts. Johnston vehemently denies these claims, stating there is “no fact basis” to the allegations.
The core of the disagreement lies in differing visions for Denver’s streets. Activists advocate for prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety through lane reductions, while others fear increased congestion and the redirection of traffic onto residential streets. This mirrors a broader national conversation about “road diets” – traffic calming measures that aim to reallocate road space.
Johnston’s Concerns: Commute Times and the “Ripple Effect”
Mayor Johnston has publicly expressed concern that restricting lanes on Alameda, and other major arteries, could significantly worsen commute times for Denver residents. He pointed to the ongoing construction on East Colfax Avenue, where a reduction from four to two lanes has reportedly halved traffic volume but doubled his commute time.
“Where do you think those ten or fifteen thousand (cars) went?” Johnston asked during a recent podcast appearance on City Cast Denver. “Those are cars that are going on other streets to obtain to the same path.” He argues that a series of similar lane reductions across the city could create a cascading effect, making it increasingly difficult for people to get to work.
Accusations of Influence and Civil Discourse
The debate has become increasingly contentious, with accusations of improper influence and even threats against city employees. Johnston criticized tactics used by some advocates, including attempts to jeopardize the engineering licenses of those involved in the project. “That is not the way you have a civil discourse,” he stated.
Eight Denver City Council members have formally called on Johnston to reinstate the original plan for a full narrowing of Alameda Avenue, highlighting the depth of the division within city government.
A Pilot Program and Data-Driven Decisions
In an attempt to address the concerns, the city plans to pilot the two-lane version of the Alameda Avenue project and collect data on speeds, traffic volumes, crash rates, and neighborhood impact. A working group comprised of neighborhood and business representatives will be convened to “iron out additional details.”
DOTI will measure the impact on surrounding streets, acknowledging the potential for traffic to be diverted onto residential roads. This data-driven approach reflects a growing trend in urban planning, where cities are increasingly relying on empirical evidence to inform transportation decisions.
FAQ
Q: What is a “road diet”?
A: A road diet is a low-cost, proven safety measure to reduce the number of travel lanes on a street while often adding features like bike lanes, pedestrian islands, and improved crosswalks.
Q: Why is Alameda Avenue a point of contention?
A: The Alameda Avenue project has become a focal point for broader debates about traffic safety, congestion, and the balance between different modes of transportation.
Q: What is Mayor Johnston’s position on the Alameda Avenue project?
A: Mayor Johnston supports a compromise plan that maintains four lanes with turn pockets, expressing concerns that a full lane reduction could worsen commute times and divert traffic onto residential streets.
Q: Will the city reinstall the original plan for Alameda Avenue?
A: The city is currently piloting a two-lane version of the project and will use data collected to inform future decisions.
Did you understand? The debate over Alameda Avenue highlights a growing tension between prioritizing vehicle traffic and creating more pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly urban environments.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about local transportation projects by subscribing to city newsletters and attending public meetings.
Desire to learn more about Denver’s transportation initiatives? Visit the Denver Department of Transportation & Infrastructure website.
What are your thoughts on the Alameda Avenue project? Share your opinions in the comments below!
