Complete Streets Save Lives

It's been two years since Anthony Saluto's death. Joseph Lasala, under the influence of several drugs, crossed over four lanes on Independence Avenue and struck Anthony with his car. Lasala fled the scene leaving Anthony on the side of the street. Last year Lasala was charged with involuntary manslaughter.  

Today, on a happier note 41 Action News reporter Cat Reid came along for our family's walk/ride to school (see video below). But the story is still a chilling reminder that justice for Anthony has yet to come and that we have a long way to go to make our streets safer for everyone. 

Specifically, in my roll as the chair of the city's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, I am working with my fellow BPAC reps to make sure that the are where Anthony was killed gets a major complete street upgrade. Just yesterday the committee saw an updated plan for the "Paseo Gateway", a massive redesign of the intersection of Independence Ave and Paseo Blvd. This will include brand new sidewalks and a wide separated bike path along both streets. It's just a short stretch for now, but it sets a corse forward for reconnecting the Historic Northeast to River Market. 

Anthony's "ghost bike" marking the spot in Indie Ave near Lydia where his life was so senselessly lost. 

The Paseo Gateway will include new sidewalks, an improved intersection, and separated bike paths (green). BPAC approved this plan yesterday.

Let's make our streets safe for everyone!