Just a note that blog posts may be few and far between over the next couple weeks. I'll be out of town for some job training (not sure it will be like in the picture though). I'll try to post stuff as time becomes available, but in the meantime, Jeff Selle will be your 'guest blogger' but he's pretty tied up with some big assignments so not sure how much time he'll have to devote to it.
Friday, July 31, 2009
At Least It Gets Me Out Of The Office I Guess
Just a note that blog posts may be few and far between over the next couple weeks. I'll be out of town for some job training (not sure it will be like in the picture though). I'll try to post stuff as time becomes available, but in the meantime, Jeff Selle will be your 'guest blogger' but he's pretty tied up with some big assignments so not sure how much time he'll have to devote to it.
FREE Bike Corral At Art On The Green
I'm on a roll lately for posting things a little too late, but here goes anyway:
The North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation is hosting a free bike corral for Art on the Green visitors this weekend. Bicycles are not allowed within Art on the Green, so they hope that the bike corral will encourage people to ride by providing a hassle-free, secure area to leave their bike.
The corral is located in front of the entrance and will run concurrent hours to Art on the Green (Fri 12 -7, Sat 10 -7, Sun 10 -4).
A shuttle bus will also run from the NIC Student Union Building to A Taste of the Coeur d'Alene and Street Fair. Visitors could use a bike/bus combo to visit all three events.
The bike corral is free but we will be taking donations.
The North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation is hosting a free bike corral for Art on the Green visitors this weekend. Bicycles are not allowed within Art on the Green, so they hope that the bike corral will encourage people to ride by providing a hassle-free, secure area to leave their bike.
The corral is located in front of the entrance and will run concurrent hours to Art on the Green (Fri 12 -7, Sat 10 -7, Sun 10 -4).
A shuttle bus will also run from the NIC Student Union Building to A Taste of the Coeur d'Alene and Street Fair. Visitors could use a bike/bus combo to visit all three events.
The bike corral is free but we will be taking donations.
CDA Gets Stimulus Money For Signal @ Kathleen & Howard
Good news for the City of Coeur d’Alene- they received $307,000 in stimulus funds for construction of a traffic signal at Kathleen Avenue and Howard Street.
City Engineer Gordon Dobler says it will be “a few months” before work can start to install the signal. He expects it to be installed and functioning in late fall. The City has been working since 1996 toward putting a signal at that location.
City Engineer Gordon Dobler says it will be “a few months” before work can start to install the signal. He expects it to be installed and functioning in late fall. The City has been working since 1996 toward putting a signal at that location.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
US 95/Lincoln Way Bridge Project Starts Monday
A news release from the Idaho Transportation Department:
An Idaho Transportation Department project to resurface the U.S. 95/Lincoln Way bridge at Interstate 90 in Coeur d'Alene is set to begin Monday (Aug. 3).
Contractor's crews will resurface the roadway and bridge deck. New curb, gutter and sidewalk will be installed at the Appleway intersection. The old pavement will be removed and replaced with a new asphalt surface. A new video detection system also will be installed at the Ironwood and Appleway intersections, to replace the outdated detection loops embedded in the roadway surface.
Most of the work directly impacting traffic will be performed Monday through Friday, overnight from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Additional work also may be performed on weekends. Motorists may experience minor delays as traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction across the bridge. Flaggers will guide traffic through the work zone area. Work is taking place at night to lessen the impact to motorists.
The contractor for this $1.2 million project is N.A. Degerstrom, of Spokane, Wash. Work is expected to be complete by mid-October.
ITD and the Idaho State Police caution motorists to slow down and pay attention when driving in work zones, where increased speeding fines and other penalties apply. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov for information on the state highway or interstate system.
An Idaho Transportation Department project to resurface the U.S. 95/Lincoln Way bridge at Interstate 90 in Coeur d'Alene is set to begin Monday (Aug. 3).
Contractor's crews will resurface the roadway and bridge deck. New curb, gutter and sidewalk will be installed at the Appleway intersection. The old pavement will be removed and replaced with a new asphalt surface. A new video detection system also will be installed at the Ironwood and Appleway intersections, to replace the outdated detection loops embedded in the roadway surface.
Most of the work directly impacting traffic will be performed Monday through Friday, overnight from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Additional work also may be performed on weekends. Motorists may experience minor delays as traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction across the bridge. Flaggers will guide traffic through the work zone area. Work is taking place at night to lessen the impact to motorists.
The contractor for this $1.2 million project is N.A. Degerstrom, of Spokane, Wash. Work is expected to be complete by mid-October.
ITD and the Idaho State Police caution motorists to slow down and pay attention when driving in work zones, where increased speeding fines and other penalties apply. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov for information on the state highway or interstate system.
Drop In RV Sales Hurting Economy Even More
We've heard a lot about the economy hurting car sales, auto production plants, and unemployment rates in general. But what we haven't heard much about is how the poor economy is hurting RV sales, which in turn also takes a toll on the unemployment rate.
RV sales have dropped 65% from their peak just a few years ago, and predictions are that hundreds of RV dealers will go under in the coming year. Here's more on that from MSNBC.
RV sales have dropped 65% from their peak just a few years ago, and predictions are that hundreds of RV dealers will go under in the coming year. Here's more on that from MSNBC.
ITD Needs Your Help To Place Ped Curb Ramps
The Idaho Transportation Department wants to hear from you about Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) facilities within their public right‐of‐way. ITD is hosting a meeting next week to ask for help identifying key locations for pedestrian curb ramp improvements. The meeting is Tuesday, August 4 from 4-7 p.m. at the Post Falls Public Library, 821 N. Spokane Street. A short presentation will be given at 6 p.m.
For more info, click the flyer above to view it in a larger size.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Downtown CDA Events Will Impact Traffic
This is your early warning that upcoming events in downtown Coeur d'Alene will mean some traffic impacts for you. The annual Downtown Street Fair, Taste of the Coeur d’Alenes, and Art on the Green all take place this weekend.
Because the Street Fair has expanded this year though, Sherman Avenue will be closed from Independence Point east to 7th Street to add additional vendor space. Traffic headed into the downtown area from Northwest Boulevard will be routed onto Lakeside and then south on Third Street, or north on Fourth Street. Traffic leaving the city’s Third Street parking lot will be directed eastbound only and northbound on Fourth or Seventh Street. Resort traffic only will be directed southbound on Second Street and leaving the resort eastbound only on Front.
Barricades will go up Friday morning.
Because the Street Fair has expanded this year though, Sherman Avenue will be closed from Independence Point east to 7th Street to add additional vendor space. Traffic headed into the downtown area from Northwest Boulevard will be routed onto Lakeside and then south on Third Street, or north on Fourth Street. Traffic leaving the city’s Third Street parking lot will be directed eastbound only and northbound on Fourth or Seventh Street. Resort traffic only will be directed southbound on Second Street and leaving the resort eastbound only on Front.
Barricades will go up Friday morning.
Stop- Or Face The Consequences
This picture (which I lifted off the Coeur d'Alene Press' 'More Main Street' blog) cracked me up because it seems to suggest that you should definetely stop at that stop sign- or a higher power is going to have his/her way with you.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Cash For Clunkers- What You Need To Know
I haven't seen much in the print media lately, but the local TV news programs are going kind of crazy (especially the morning shows) over the 'Cash for Clunkers' program.
The 'Consumer Assistance Recycle and Save' Act (also known as 'CARS' or 'Cash for Clunkers') is a $1 billion program that will provide a voucher of up to $4,500 to help offset the cost of new car purchases or leases until November.
While the program is getting a lot of attention though, there are some definete drawbacks, such as if a car is worth more than the voucher for which it qualifies the driver would be better off just taking the regular trade-in value. And vouchers don’t come as an addition to trade-in values because cars brought in under the cash-for-clunkers program have to be scrapped, so their trade-in value is essentially zero.
Plus, it's a stretch of the imagination to believe that someone driving around in a car that’s worth less than $4,500 is going to want the payments that come with a new car. There’s a reason they’re driving that car and a $4,500 discount isn't going to do much to change that.
If you're not turned off by any of that though and are interested in more details, here are some of the requirements:
- Your vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
- Only purchase or lease of new vehicles qualify
- Generally, trade-in vehicles must get 18 or less MPG (some very large pick-up trucks and cargo vans have different requirements)
- Trade-in vehicles must be registered and insured continuously for the full year preceding the trade-in
- You don't need a voucher, dealers will apply a credit at purchase
- Program runs through Nov 1, 2009 or when the funds are exhausted, whichever comes first.
- The program requires the scrapping of your eligible trade-in vehicle, and that the dealer disclose to you an estimate of the scrap value of your trade-in. The scrap value, however minimal, will be in addition to the rebate, and not in place of the rebate.
For even more details, the government has set upthe cars.gov website to answer questions on the 'Cash for Clunkers' program.
The 'Consumer Assistance Recycle and Save' Act (also known as 'CARS' or 'Cash for Clunkers') is a $1 billion program that will provide a voucher of up to $4,500 to help offset the cost of new car purchases or leases until November.
While the program is getting a lot of attention though, there are some definete drawbacks, such as if a car is worth more than the voucher for which it qualifies the driver would be better off just taking the regular trade-in value. And vouchers don’t come as an addition to trade-in values because cars brought in under the cash-for-clunkers program have to be scrapped, so their trade-in value is essentially zero.
Plus, it's a stretch of the imagination to believe that someone driving around in a car that’s worth less than $4,500 is going to want the payments that come with a new car. There’s a reason they’re driving that car and a $4,500 discount isn't going to do much to change that.
If you're not turned off by any of that though and are interested in more details, here are some of the requirements:
- Your vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
- Only purchase or lease of new vehicles qualify
- Generally, trade-in vehicles must get 18 or less MPG (some very large pick-up trucks and cargo vans have different requirements)
- Trade-in vehicles must be registered and insured continuously for the full year preceding the trade-in
- You don't need a voucher, dealers will apply a credit at purchase
- Program runs through Nov 1, 2009 or when the funds are exhausted, whichever comes first.
- The program requires the scrapping of your eligible trade-in vehicle, and that the dealer disclose to you an estimate of the scrap value of your trade-in. The scrap value, however minimal, will be in addition to the rebate, and not in place of the rebate.
For even more details, the government has set upthe cars.gov website to answer questions on the 'Cash for Clunkers' program.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Who's Afraid Of A Train At 40 MPH?
You want a light rail system in our area? You may have to get creative about it, like they do in the Philippines. Some resourceful 'entrepreneurs' in Manila have built what look to be trolleys and use them to get commuters around the city... on active railroad lines.Here's more on this story, and some crazy pictures, from the 'Oddity Central' blog.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A Victory For US 95
The Idaho Transportatin Board today decided to give $15.8 million in federal stimulus savings to fund a project to widen US 95 north of Hayden to avoid a bottleneck situation.
The project will widen the two-lane section of U.S. 95 between Wyoming Avenue and the Idaho 53 junction to connect with four-lane segments on both sides. Widening the small segment of highway will create four continuous lanes from Coeur d'Alene to north of Garwood when construction is completed.
Funneling traffic from four lanes to two lanes in such a short section creates a safety risk.
The state anticipates saving $33 million on the eight major federal transportation stimulus projects bid by contractors. Transportation department officials credit an increase in the number of contractors bidding projects for the savings. The transportation board decided to wait until bids on the U.S. 93 Twin Falls Alternate Route project is open this month to decide which projects to fund with remaining stimulus savings.
The project will widen the two-lane section of U.S. 95 between Wyoming Avenue and the Idaho 53 junction to connect with four-lane segments on both sides. Widening the small segment of highway will create four continuous lanes from Coeur d'Alene to north of Garwood when construction is completed.
Funneling traffic from four lanes to two lanes in such a short section creates a safety risk.
The state anticipates saving $33 million on the eight major federal transportation stimulus projects bid by contractors. Transportation department officials credit an increase in the number of contractors bidding projects for the savings. The transportation board decided to wait until bids on the U.S. 93 Twin Falls Alternate Route project is open this month to decide which projects to fund with remaining stimulus savings.
Healthcare Legislation Includes Money For Walking
Healthcare legislation working its way through Congress is apparently more than an effort to provide insurance to millions of Americans without coverage. Included is a provision that could provide billions of dollars for walking paths and walking ammenities.
Some people say this is a classic example of pork barrel spending, but others argue it's a necessary way to promote healthier lives and, in the long run, cut medical costs. Here's the Boston Globe article.
Some people say this is a classic example of pork barrel spending, but others argue it's a necessary way to promote healthier lives and, in the long run, cut medical costs. Here's the Boston Globe article.
Area Bicycle Polo Club Formed
You can street ride, mountain bike, and I've even seen my neighbor kids ride their bikes off the end of the dock into the lake. But what else can you do to entertain yourself on a bike?One group of diehards has started the Spokane Bicycle Polo Club, and they're hoping to get more people to join. Here's the story from the Spokesman-Review.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
3 Wheels Are Better Than 4 In This Case
Google is taking to the streets to advance its Street View service this summer... on tricycles. Google is deploying bikes mounted with its 360 degree Street View cameras this summer to map areas of Britain inaccessible by its fleet of Street View cars. Here's more on this story. I think I'm going to have to take a leave of abscence to ride a Google trike this summer.
A Bunch Of Complaints & One Legitimate Concern- You Decide Which Is Which
Here's my list of transportation irritations for today:- A woman in a Miata almost hit me while I was crossing the street this morning. That surely would have left a bruise on my ankles and probably totalled her car.
- The mechanic said my starter isn't bad, but it was about to fall off as someone didn't tighten the bolts correctly.
- Is air conditioning really worth $400?? That's what I paid to have mine fixed.
- The back wheel on my bike is apparently bent because it wobbles all over.
- Fuel efficient cars are great for the environment but could take a toll on our road system. Because they use less fuel, funds from gas taxes will decline, so higher fuel efficiency means we may no longer be able to afford to fund transportation services. Here's more from the TampaBay.com blog on this catch 22 situation.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Council To Consider Snow Removal Ordinance Tonight
Post Falls' City Council will consider an ordinance tonight to make residents responsible for snow removal on sidewalks at their homes or businesses.
State law states that cities are responsible for clearing streets and gives cities the authority to require private responsibilities concerning sidewalks.
Here's more from the Coeur d'Alene Press.
State law states that cities are responsible for clearing streets and gives cities the authority to require private responsibilities concerning sidewalks.
Here's more from the Coeur d'Alene Press.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Writer Says CDA Gas Prices High
Coeur d'Alene Press Letters To The Editor
Why Are CDA Gas Prices Still High?
Over the last two weeks the national price of gas has dropped by about 15 cents per gallon to $2.49. The prices in Spirit Lake and Rathdrum have dropped by 14 cents from $2.77 to $2.63. About what you'd expect in relation to the national average. But, the prices at the Coeur d'Alene stations near Hwy 95 and Appleway have not dropped by even a penny. This includes Costco and Safeway on Neider.
Why not? There is only one answer -- GREED. Because the prices are so much lower than last year these stations are gouging everyone. There is no way they can contend that the price they pay for gas has not gone down when those in Spirit Lake and Rathdrum have.
Even if you have to pay a bit more, why not patronize stations that are at least dropping their prices as they pay less for their gas. This is both an incentive for them to continue their practice as they get more sales and it is an incentive for the Cd'A stations to get their prices down to where they should be. BTW, Spirit Lake and Rathdrum are typically 15 to 20 cents per gallon higher that those Cd'A stations near Highway 95 and Appleway.
JOHN SLAUGHTER
Spirit Lake
Try buying gas in Spokane, Mr. Slaughter. It's still right around $2.77 a gallon. What are the lowest/highest gas prices you've seen recently?
Why Are CDA Gas Prices Still High?
Over the last two weeks the national price of gas has dropped by about 15 cents per gallon to $2.49. The prices in Spirit Lake and Rathdrum have dropped by 14 cents from $2.77 to $2.63. About what you'd expect in relation to the national average. But, the prices at the Coeur d'Alene stations near Hwy 95 and Appleway have not dropped by even a penny. This includes Costco and Safeway on Neider.
Why not? There is only one answer -- GREED. Because the prices are so much lower than last year these stations are gouging everyone. There is no way they can contend that the price they pay for gas has not gone down when those in Spirit Lake and Rathdrum have.
Even if you have to pay a bit more, why not patronize stations that are at least dropping their prices as they pay less for their gas. This is both an incentive for them to continue their practice as they get more sales and it is an incentive for the Cd'A stations to get their prices down to where they should be. BTW, Spirit Lake and Rathdrum are typically 15 to 20 cents per gallon higher that those Cd'A stations near Highway 95 and Appleway.
JOHN SLAUGHTER
Spirit Lake
Try buying gas in Spokane, Mr. Slaughter. It's still right around $2.77 a gallon. What are the lowest/highest gas prices you've seen recently?
Otter To Be At Dover Bridge Ribbon Cutting
Wednesday will be a big day in Dover, ID. A delegation of dignitaries, including Governor Butch Otter, will be there for the ribbon cutting of the Dover Bridge. Here's more from the Spokesman-Review's 'Getting There' column.
Hanley Closed At 4th & Davenport Streets
Here's another item I'm late with: Hanley Avenue will be closed at the intersections of 4th and Davenport streets beginning today (July 20) to allow utility workers to lower gas lines and relocate utilities as part of a resurfacing project on Hanley.
Eastbound traffic on Hanley will be rerouted south on Colfax Street to Dalton Avenue and then east to Mt. Carrol Street. Motorists will then be directed north on Mt. Carrol to reconnect with Hanley Avenue.
Traffic moving west on Hanley Avenue will be rerouted south on Mt. Carrol to Dalton Avenue and then west to Colfax Street to reconnect with Hanley Avenue.
Eastbound traffic on Hanley will be rerouted south on Colfax Street to Dalton Avenue and then east to Mt. Carrol Street. Motorists will then be directed north on Mt. Carrol to reconnect with Hanley Avenue.
Traffic moving west on Hanley Avenue will be rerouted south on Mt. Carrol to Dalton Avenue and then west to Colfax Street to reconnect with Hanley Avenue.
Biking With A Belly
Thanks to Chris from J-U-B Engineers who sent me this article from Momentum Magazine called Biking With A Belly. Chris had commented on an earlier blog thread about how his wife bicycled all the way through her pregnancy, with her doctor's blessing.
The article says that exercise is essential during pregnancy to help maintain a normal blood pressure, normal blood sugar levels and overall physical fitness, which can help during labor. It suggests bicycling because it is more comfortable for many pregnant women than walking or other forms of exercise. The article also has some tips on how to make cycling safer and more comfortable during pregnancy, such as adapting your bike so you sit more upright and switching from clipless to regular pedals if your balance is off in order to avoid accidents.
The article says that exercise is essential during pregnancy to help maintain a normal blood pressure, normal blood sugar levels and overall physical fitness, which can help during labor. It suggests bicycling because it is more comfortable for many pregnant women than walking or other forms of exercise. The article also has some tips on how to make cycling safer and more comfortable during pregnancy, such as adapting your bike so you sit more upright and switching from clipless to regular pedals if your balance is off in order to avoid accidents.
Community Mobility Meetings
Sorry for the late notice, but you can help determine local community mobility needs at meetings today to develop strategies and set priorities for how best to move people around in their unique areas.
The Idaho Transportation Department will host two meetings, both today. One is from 1-4:30 p.m. and another from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel-Longhouse, Highway 95 in Worley.
The meetings are part of a statewide initiative for mobility management that focuses on utilizing all modes of transportation including buses, bicycles and bicycle paths, carpools and vanpools.
The Idaho Transportation Department will host two meetings, both today. One is from 1-4:30 p.m. and another from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel-Longhouse, Highway 95 in Worley.
The meetings are part of a statewide initiative for mobility management that focuses on utilizing all modes of transportation including buses, bicycles and bicycle paths, carpools and vanpools.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
ITD Director Lowe Fired
This just in from the Spokesman's 'Eye On Boise' blog: the Idaho Transportation Board just voted unanimously to fire director Pam Lowe.
Deputy Director Scott Stokes was named the interim director while a new director is sought, with the search focusing both inside and outside ITD.
Board Chairman Darrell Manning said, “The board determined this change was necessary to help the department continue improving customer service, economy of operations, accountability and our relations with the Legislature.”
Here's more from Eye on Boise.
Deputy Director Scott Stokes was named the interim director while a new director is sought, with the search focusing both inside and outside ITD.
Board Chairman Darrell Manning said, “The board determined this change was necessary to help the department continue improving customer service, economy of operations, accountability and our relations with the Legislature.”
Here's more from Eye on Boise.
All-Pet Airline Having Big Success
I have friends who are flying across the country to take a temporary job for a couple months. They have a date they need to be there so don't have time to drive. They own a cat they would love to take with them, but after checking into the cost and requirements of taking Fluffy on a plane with them, decided it might be cheaper and easier to board Fluffy for a couple months, despite reservations about leaving their beloved pet with strangers.
A new airline may be the answer, although they don't fly in our area yet. Pet Airways, the first-ever all-pet airline, says business is brisk and pretty much all their flights are booked out two months in advance. Here's a story on this new kind of airline, from Yahoo News.
A new airline may be the answer, although they don't fly in our area yet. Pet Airways, the first-ever all-pet airline, says business is brisk and pretty much all their flights are booked out two months in advance. Here's a story on this new kind of airline, from Yahoo News.
New Location For KMPO Board & KCATT Meetings
Due to HVAC work underway at the Idaho Transportation Department building, we are forced to move our KMPO Board and Kootenai County Area Transportation Team (KCATT) meetings. For the remainder of the year, they will be held at Post Falls Council Chambers. The Council Chambers are on the first floor of City Hall at 408 N. Spokane St., Post Falls. (Parking for City Hall is off the 4th and 5th Ave. entrances).
Here's a link to all meeting dates.
Here's a link to all meeting dates.
'Tour De Bureaucrats' To Hit The Centennial Trail
Consider this your warning. We held a recent staff retreat and one of the items that came out of it was that we are going to do more 'field trips' and 'team building' activities (translation: find excuses to get outside during the summer). So, today at lunch (please note we're doing it on our lunch hours so no taxpayer dollars will be used to finance this endeavor) we are taking the 'Tour De Bureaucrats' bike ride of the Centennial Trail. Not sure yet which section of the Trail we're tackling, but if you see a group of bedraggled-looking bike riders, including one lady wearing a dress, that will be us. Here's a picture of our last outing to the Fish Lake Trail by the way.
Don't Let Pets Drive, It's Too Hot For Them In The Car
This is only transportation related because it involves vehicles, but a reminder that it's supposed to be in the 90's through the rest of the week so if you HAVE to take your dog with you in the car, don't leave them there while you shop, see a movie, etc. Even dogs with a cool haircut like Lily here can suffer dehydration, heat stroke, and sunburn (dogs with haircuts are especially prone to sunburn) within just a few minutes of being left in a hot car.
Business Owners Ask Legislators For Transportation Changes
Over 100 business leaders from across the U.S. are traveling to Washington, D.C. today to share their views on transportation policy with their Senators and Representatives.
They're asking Congress to include transportation reform in any reauthorization of transportation policy and have four basic requests:
1.) Explore all funding options--including raising user fees, encouraging private investment, and creating an infrastructure bank.
2.) Safeguard money collected from gas taxes and other fees for transportation-specific projects.
3.) Cut red tape associated with those projects.
4.) Address the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund immediately.
Here's more on this event from 'Welcome to the Fast Lane: the official blog of the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.'
They're asking Congress to include transportation reform in any reauthorization of transportation policy and have four basic requests:
1.) Explore all funding options--including raising user fees, encouraging private investment, and creating an infrastructure bank.
2.) Safeguard money collected from gas taxes and other fees for transportation-specific projects.
3.) Cut red tape associated with those projects.
4.) Address the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund immediately.
Here's more on this event from 'Welcome to the Fast Lane: the official blog of the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.'
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Editorial Lauds City For Business Support During Construction
An editorial in today's Coeur d'Alene Press asks citizens not to villify the City for the mess that midtown is right now. The piece points out that, not only is the construction project there moving very quickly, but that City employees have gone out of their way to frequent businesses in the area to help their financial situation.
Here's the editorial. So have you made a point of visiting any of those businesses?
Here's the editorial. So have you made a point of visiting any of those businesses?
Seattle Toughens Law On Disabled Parking Abuse
I blogged about the problem of people without disabilities parking in disabled parking spaces a couple months ago. Well, apparently the problem isn't just ours. It's gotten so bad in Seattle that City Council members this week voted to take action.Apparently a lot of people over there are using disabled placards that they 'inherited' when family members died or ones they obtained fraudulently.
Here's the Seattle PI story.
I have a couple friends in wheelchairs and they both complain about this. So do the rest of you notice this abuse increasing in our area or do you think it's always gone on at these levels?
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
AARP Releases Study On Need For Complete Streets For Older Americans
The AARP Public Policy Institute has just released their report "Planning Complete Streets for an Aging America."
This report addresses the need to create Complete Streets that are safe and convenient for travel by automobile, foot, bicycle and transit regardless of age or ability. Some findings from research conducted for this study show that:
* 2/3 of planners and engineers report they have not begun considering the needs of older road users in multi-modal planning.
* More than 80 states and localities have adopted Complete Streets policies, but less than 1/3 of these explicitly address the needs of older road users.
* 40% of adults age 50 and older report inadequate sidewalks in their neighborhoods. Nearly 50% report they cannot cross main roads close to their home safely.
* The report suggests revisions to five intersection treatments in the Federal Highway Design Handbook for Older Drivers and Pedestrians to better balance the needs of both older drivers and pedestrians.
To read the report in its entirety, click here.
This report addresses the need to create Complete Streets that are safe and convenient for travel by automobile, foot, bicycle and transit regardless of age or ability. Some findings from research conducted for this study show that:
* 2/3 of planners and engineers report they have not begun considering the needs of older road users in multi-modal planning.
* More than 80 states and localities have adopted Complete Streets policies, but less than 1/3 of these explicitly address the needs of older road users.
* 40% of adults age 50 and older report inadequate sidewalks in their neighborhoods. Nearly 50% report they cannot cross main roads close to their home safely.
* The report suggests revisions to five intersection treatments in the Federal Highway Design Handbook for Older Drivers and Pedestrians to better balance the needs of both older drivers and pedestrians.
To read the report in its entirety, click here.
One Lane Of Vancouver Bridge Given To Cyclists
An experiment 13 years in the making gets underway today in Vancouver, B.C. In 1996,
the city handed over one lane of the Burrard Bridge to cyclists- making it unavailable for vehicle traffic- then abruptly aborted the trial a week later. After much reconsidering though, the experiment begins again today.
The southbound curb lane heading out of downtown will be exclusively for cyclists, leaving two southbound lanes for drivers. All three northbound lanes remain unchanged.
Here's more on this story from 'The Hook' blog.
the city handed over one lane of the Burrard Bridge to cyclists- making it unavailable for vehicle traffic- then abruptly aborted the trial a week later. After much reconsidering though, the experiment begins again today.
The southbound curb lane heading out of downtown will be exclusively for cyclists, leaving two southbound lanes for drivers. All three northbound lanes remain unchanged.
Here's more on this story from 'The Hook' blog.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Rebate Helps Drivers Get Rid Of Gas Guzzlers
Here's the situation a lot of people are in: their older cars guzzle gas, but if they sell them, they won't get enough money for them to put a decent downpayment on a more efficient vehicle. With the passage of the Cars Allowance Rebate System though, that may no longer be the case.
Here's more from the Coeur d'Alene Press on a rebate that could help you get into something more fuel efficient.
Here's more from the Coeur d'Alene Press on a rebate that could help you get into something more fuel efficient.
Idaho Man Makes Game About Long Haul Trucking
A long-haul trucker from southeastern Idaho has created a trucking-themed board game, with help from other truckers, state troopers and mechanics."My Truckin' Luck" has players start in Washington state, then use dice to determine where they're headed. Players face challenges such as high gas prices, maintaining a log book, weigh stations, truck inspections, and hazardous road conditions. Here's more on the game from the Idaho Statesman.
Man Takes On United Airlines Over Broken Guitar
Ever lose your luggage while flying? How about having one of your possessions damaged by the airline? That's what happened to a Canadian guy named Dave Carroll who went on tour with his band and flew United Airlines to get to their gigs.
When they arrived, Carroll's $3,500 guitar was broken. After going through the usual channels, he had no luck getting reimbursed for the broken guitar, so he turned to the internet and posted the youtube video below called, "United Broke My Guitar."
In just two days, so many people viewed the video and contacted United that the company's CEO finally contacted him, replaced the guitar, and asked to use the old one for customer service training at United.
When they arrived, Carroll's $3,500 guitar was broken. After going through the usual channels, he had no luck getting reimbursed for the broken guitar, so he turned to the internet and posted the youtube video below called, "United Broke My Guitar."
In just two days, so many people viewed the video and contacted United that the company's CEO finally contacted him, replaced the guitar, and asked to use the old one for customer service training at United.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Roundabout Coming to McGuire & Prairie Intersection
North Idaho is getting another roundabout. The Post Falls Highway District was recently notified that it will receive $459,000 in federal stimulus funding to construct a roundabout at the intersection of McGuire Road and Prairie Avenue.
That's one of the most dangerous intersections in the Post Falls Highway District and officials are hoping the roundabout will cut down on accidents. Some residents in the area feel it's unnecessary though.
Here's more from the Coeur d'Alene Press.
That's one of the most dangerous intersections in the Post Falls Highway District and officials are hoping the roundabout will cut down on accidents. Some residents in the area feel it's unnecessary though.
Here's more from the Coeur d'Alene Press.
Bamboo-Made Cars Run On Coconut Bio-Diesel
Taking a trip to the Philippines anytime soon? Yeah, me neither. But if you ever do, be sure to check out the newest taxis there. Two new taxis, named Eco 1 and Eco 2, have hit the streets of a town called Tabontabon.
They're made almost entirely of bamboo and powered by coconut bio-diesel! Both are made of 90% bamboo and almost fully covered in banig, a Filipino woven mat. They're spacious too, one can carry up to 20 people and the other eight people.
They're stylish too, being decorated with a variety of colors and designs. But the real question is, how fuel efficient are they? The blog 'Green Diary' has the answer.
They're made almost entirely of bamboo and powered by coconut bio-diesel! Both are made of 90% bamboo and almost fully covered in banig, a Filipino woven mat. They're spacious too, one can carry up to 20 people and the other eight people.
They're stylish too, being decorated with a variety of colors and designs. But the real question is, how fuel efficient are they? The blog 'Green Diary' has the answer.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
New Product Allows You To Carry Fishing Gear On Bikes
Wow, I'm finding all kinds of fun stuff today. So say you like to ride your bike. And you also like to fish. But how do you combine these two hobbies, when it's hard to haul your fishing gear on your bicycle? With the new 'Bike Fisherman,' of course! This product is produced by a Spokane couple who rode the Centennial Trail last year and kept seeing good fishing holes. So they took to the drawing board and this is what they came up with. Happy fishing everyone.
Bleeding Billboards Warn Drivers
Ryan in our office sent me this item. Apparently when it rains in some parts of New Zealand, it really pours... blood, that is.It's part of a safety campaign to slow down reckless drivers during the rainy season when roads become slick and dangerous. 'It' is a series of billboards showing pictures of children. When it rains, blood oozes from the billboards. And it's apparently very effective. Since the billboards were put in place, there hasn't been a single fatal accident in the area.
Here's video and a media report.. and a warning that it's kind of creepy.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Citylink Numbers Show Another Increase For June
Another record month for Citylink ridership. Not all areas were up in June,but as a whole there was a significant increase in rider numbers over last year. Here are the latest numbers, just released.
Two Big Road Projects In Final Stages
A couple of North Idaho construction projects are in the final stages of completion.
The 6-mile resurfacing project of US 95 between Appleway and Wyoming avenues is expected to be completed this week. And the 4-mile overhaul of highway from Worley to Setters south of Coeur d'Alene is expected to be done by the end of August. Here's more on the state of local construction.
The 6-mile resurfacing project of US 95 between Appleway and Wyoming avenues is expected to be completed this week. And the 4-mile overhaul of highway from Worley to Setters south of Coeur d'Alene is expected to be done by the end of August. Here's more on the state of local construction.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
ITD Using Twitter To Alert Drivers
The Idaho Transportation Department is breaking out of its' shell and trying a new method to alert the public to road closures, lane restrictions, and construction zone backups... Twitter!
That's right, you can now get traffic information via the social networking company.
Initially, ITD will test the advantages of Twitter by notifying users of construction information on I-84 in the Treasure Valley. If the pilot program proves successful, ITD will consider posting "tweets" about additional construction projects in the state.
You can begin following ITD on Twitter by clicking here.- SL
That's right, you can now get traffic information via the social networking company.
Initially, ITD will test the advantages of Twitter by notifying users of construction information on I-84 in the Treasure Valley. If the pilot program proves successful, ITD will consider posting "tweets" about additional construction projects in the state.
You can begin following ITD on Twitter by clicking here.- SL
Free Beach Cruiser Ride Tomorrow
A lot of us have tomorrow (Friday) off. So what are you going to do? Sit around in your underwear watching TV or actually get out and do something? How about a bike ride? The 'Tour De Franzia' beach cruiser ride is tomorrow. The poster says "Any and all with wheels encouraged." And my contact for this event says it will begin as a cruise for all ages, but eventually meander past multiple 'watering holes' throughout the afternoon and evening.
So here are the details, meet at the NIC Beach at 2 p.m. Decorate your bike if you wish. Then just ride around and have a good time. The organizers are hoping to critical mass up Sherman around 6 p.m.-SL
So here are the details, meet at the NIC Beach at 2 p.m. Decorate your bike if you wish. Then just ride around and have a good time. The organizers are hoping to critical mass up Sherman around 6 p.m.-SL
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Bike Commuting While Pregnant- Safe Or Risky?
Most people who know me know I'm pretty squeamish about pregnancy, so here's a topic I never expected to discuss on this blog: should pregnant women continue to bike commute? My first reaction was no, they should be hidden away out of the site of the non-pregnant public. I have to admit that's not fair though. This thread on the 'Bike Commute Tips Blog' by author Paul Dorn says bicycle commuting can be a particularly healthy activity for expectant mothers, even up to the week before giving birth.He emphasizes that pregnancy is definetely a time when women need to use caution in their physical exertion, but says bicycling is among the best exercise during pregnancy because of it's smooth motion, it doesn't require lifting or jumping, and you can choose your level of exertion.
So read the article and let me know if you, your spouse, or a friend commuted by bike while pregnant and how that worked out.- SL
Holiday Closures, Schedule Changes, Etc.
Because the Independence Day holiday falls on a Saturday this year, we've got some schedule changes in the works this week. Most government offices will be closed on Friday, July 3. Here's a roundup of what's going on:
- KMPO will be closed on Friday, July 3. We will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 6.
- Work will be suspended on all Idaho Transportation Department highway construction projects statewide for the Fourth of July holiday weekend, except in special circumstances.
- Coeur d’Alene City Hall will be closed on July 3. Other city offices and facilities will be closed as well.
- City of Post Falls Business Offices will be closed on Friday July 3rd.
- All trails at Q'emiln Park will be closed on Saturday, July 4.
- The Q'emiln Park boat launch will close at 8 p.m. on July 4 and reopen after the fireworks.
- KMPO will be closed on Friday, July 3. We will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 6.
- Work will be suspended on all Idaho Transportation Department highway construction projects statewide for the Fourth of July holiday weekend, except in special circumstances.
- Coeur d’Alene City Hall will be closed on July 3. Other city offices and facilities will be closed as well.
- City of Post Falls Business Offices will be closed on Friday July 3rd.
- All trails at Q'emiln Park will be closed on Saturday, July 4.
- The Q'emiln Park boat launch will close at 8 p.m. on July 4 and reopen after the fireworks.
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