Re-Building Bridges

In the wake of the Minneapolis bridge collapse, expect a wave of risk-averse bridge repairs in communities across the country. And you know what that means: delays, detours, traffic, and inconvenience.

One hip town in upstate New York (mine) knows how to soften the blow.

When Ithaca's heavily trafficked Aurora street bridge re-opened after being closed for repairs all spring and summer, the city threw a party with "stilt walkers, jugglers, a caricature artist and music from local bands."


Another note: as part of ongoing downtown revitalization, Ithaca increased the stories in their parking garage and doubled the width Aurora street's sidewalk by eliminating street parking. Result: more room for pedestrians and outdoor dining. This seems very sensible and pleasant.