Town committee pushes for sidewalk completion along Elm Street and Birds Eye Street

The Town of Stratford Greenway Committee convened on January 3, 2024, to discuss ongoing projects and future initiatives related to the town's biking and walking paths. The meeting highlighted several key agenda items, including public outreach efforts, updates on specific greenway projects, and concerns regarding sidewalk continuity.

The committee began by discussing the potential for a bike ride event to promote new bike path stripes, suggesting a route from Paradise Green to Shakespeare Park. Members emphasized the importance of involving the press to capture the event and showcase the town's greenway improvements. It was noted that coordination for public outreach should be directed through the mayor's chief of staff, Sarah Matthews, to ensure proper organization.

A significant topic of discussion was the Shore Road spur, which was initially planned to include a brick stopping area with a bike rack. However, due to property ownership issues with the local boat club, this plan was retracted. The committee decided to repurpose the purchased bricks for future projects, particularly in conjunction with mulch pathways leading to Shakespeare Park.

Members raised questions about the status of the bike path and sidewalk developments, particularly regarding the new sidewalk on Academy Hill, which is part of the bike path initiative. The committee confirmed that the sidewalk is indeed included in the bike path plans.

Concerns were voiced about gaps in the sidewalk system, particularly on Elm Street, where two sections remain incomplete. Committee members expressed frustration over the lack of funding to address these gaps, which hinder accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs. The discussion highlighted the need for the committee to advocate for funding to complete these critical sidewalk sections, ensuring a contiguous pathway that enhances community accessibility.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to pursue further discussions with the mayor's office and public works to address the sidewalk gaps and to advocate for the necessary funding to complete the greenway projects. The committee plans to compile an annual report detailing their progress and future project recommendations, reinforcing their role in promoting complete streets initiatives in Stratford.