Does your street have sidewalks that end abruptly? Or spots on walkways without curb cuts?Bike Pittsburgh is documenting issues pedestrians and cyclists encounter in each of the city's 90 neighborhoods to bring attention to mobility obstacles in Pittsburgh.
Scott Bricker, executive director of Bike Pittsburgh, said the work of identifying things like overgrown steps, cars parked on sidewalks and visible crosswalks is central to the nonprofit’s mission.
“This is really about engaging people civically and getting them to understand that they can advocate for change on their streets,” Bricker said.
In addition to reporting issues to the city’s 311 service, Bricker said Bike PGH will be sharing data with the mayor’s administration, city council and community organizations.
“Certainly there are some streets that are way better off than others, and then there are some pleasant surprises,” Bricker said. “But certainly we see investment in our streets follow development money and where people are moving and things like that.”
Bricker said part of the data collection was about pushing back on the idea that Bike PGH was solely an East End entity. Rather, he said, the organization represents all the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
He said Bike PGH doesn’t formally have a relationship with any disability advocacy groups, but said through identifying these mobility problems, it’s not only helpful for able-bodied cyclists, but also for people who might be vision or hearing impaired.
“We’re focused on accessibility for all,” Bricker said.
Bike PGH is taking submissions from residents on social media through the tag #BikeWalk90.
