Connectivity is key

As a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners I do not disagree with Mr. Toderian (“Urban thinker sizes up how we move,” July 23, 2018). Walkable communities create healthier, less stressful places. Cars in rush hour traffic degrade the air quality due to emissions. Wide streets create a sense of speed and detract from street-side activities.

I worked for developers on projects like Kendall Yards although not in Washington. Larger, multi-use type developments tend to be self-contained including residential, commercial and other uses.

Spokane expanded with the automobile. Cities in the Northeast expanded along the trolley or bus lines. These cities connected with the suburbs until the automobile arrived. Connecting cities after the fact is difficult when the primary connection is the automobile. Parks and mixed-use buildings may revitalize but not connect communities. Convenient public transit, safe bikeways, wider lighted sidewalks, less parking, affordable housing and a grocery store make revitalization more feasible.

Connecting Spokane with Kendall Yards by multiple safe means would benefit both Kendall Yards and Spokane. This requires both private and public funding of the infrastructure needs.

China isn’t building a high-speed train along the old Silk Road because they like trains. Connectivity is the key to controlled manageable growth and prosperity.

Phil Ward

Coeur d’Alene