Fry Corridor Study

I attended the Fry Corridor business outreach meeting this afternoon. The basic idea is to turn the "Fry Corridor" from 7th to Buffalo Soldier Trail into a downtown pedestrian/bicyclist friendly area. I am fully in support of this. Many studies have shown that cities with a delineated downtown or Main Street area bring in more income through taxes and more tourist dollars. By making this area on Fry an actual destination, Sierra Vista would be better able to position itself as the "hub" of tourism. This, in turn, would bring more tourists to fill our hotels, eat at our restaurants and spend their money in Sierra Vista.

Three concepts were presented:

Concept A) This plan would bring Fry boulevard down to three lanes. The speed limit would be lowered as well. The sidewalks would be enlarged significantly. I believe to 18-25 feet. This would be a multi-use path of sorts to allow bicyclists as well. The large sidewalks may also provide a means for small "incubator" businesses. These would be similar to kiosks, however, they would have water and electric. These would allow for small businesses who aren't quite ready for a storefront to begin their business.

Concept B) This plan would also lower the speed limit and bring Fry boulevard down to three lanes. Instead of large sidewalks, this concept emphasized a cycling track. The bicyclists would be separated from vehicular traffic by a boundary which would take advantage of water conservation and landscaping. The bicyclists would be separated from pedestrians by a 6 inch curb.

Concept C) This plan was my least favorite and judging from others comments, it was the least favorite of everyone present. The speed limit on Fry would be lowered, however, it would remain five lanes. This plan would require the full use of the 100 feet of easement on Fry that the city possesses. Like the other plans, it would include larger sidewalks and a bike path. However, it would significantly hinder parking for many businesses.

Other meetings will be coming to include a meeting for the public. It is vitally important that we express your feelings about how you would like free to look.

#FryCorridorstudy #bicyclists #downtown