LETTER to the EDITOR

Dear Editor,
As a West Ashley resident, I wanted to take a minute to express an alternative and widely-held viewpoint on the Legare Bridge lane conversion project to include bicycle and pedestrian traffic than the one put forth by Mr. Steinberger in his recent column ‘Nix the Bike Lane.’
While I understand the hesitation felt by some due to the assumption that traffic gridlock would increase, the thorough background research and traffic improvements put forth by the project team at the public information meeting on Aug. 27th was comprehensive and extensive.
A 141-page traffic study, conducted by HDR Engineering, Inc., demonstrates that a lane conversion is feasible with minimal traffic impacts — an estimated 7 seconds by 2040, though Mr. Steinberger claims that this finding “defies credulity” with no further justification as to why.
One fact about the project plan not mentioned in the recent column is that it includes installation of an additional left turn lane at Lockwood Drive, the source of many traffic back-ups on the bridge. Mr. Steinberger commented that City Councilman Bill Moody suggested completely replacing the Legare Bridge and including a pedestrian lane when reconstructed. While a new bridge will someday be a welcome improvement, Charleston County Councilwoman Colleen Condon made it clear at the recent informational meeting that based on the good shape that our bridge is in, a new bridge is at least a decade away, likely more.
Many in West Ashley are awaiting the lane conversion with excitement and impatience, because we feel that it will be a well-used community resource. Not only will it be used frequently by walkers, joggers, and cyclists for recreational purposes, but many will use it as a safe way to commute out of West Ashley for work. If a bicycle serves as your mode of transportation, by choice or necessity, the only options currently available are either both illegal and dangerous (James Island Connector shoulder) or just dangerous (inaccessible narrow sidewalk on the Legare Bridge).
As a former College of Charleston grad student, I utilized CARTA buses to commute over the Ashley for work and classes, but had the bike and pedestrian lane been available, I certainly would have seized the opportunity to exercise on my way to work (despite the supposed “hygiene impact on the workplace”) and to enjoy the freedom to travel at will.
For other West Ashley residents who will commute for work or for social engagements on the peninsula, this will equate to fewer cars on the bridge and fewer cars parked on the peninsula. For locals and visitors who simply want to get outside, extend trips on the West Ashley Greenway, or enjoy our beautiful city from a new vantage point, this new lane will be a valuable addition to our West Ashley community. It’s time to #bridgetheashley.
Sincerely,
Sarah Petkus,
West Ashley resident