Eyes on the Street

This could be a cost-effective way to promote public safety, help at-risk individuals, create jobs, and improve downtown's reputation as a safe, fun place to spend time.

Chicago magazine's Ted McClelland ran a piece looking at the issue of business owners scapegoating bike lanes for poor sales.

Here's a show-and-tell of my impressions of the walk/bike/transit stuff I experienced, including a few things I'd be glad to see implemented in Chicago.

Sunday from 11 to 4 p.m. it was the Tenderloin's turn to enjoy its streets free of car traffic. The route followed Fulton St. between Hyde and Larkin, Larkin to Ellis St., Ellis to Jones St., Jones to Golden Gate Ave., and Golden Gate back to Larkin St. The streets were filled with various activities and opportunities, including a "kid's bike swap" with the San Francisco Yellow Bike Project, seen above, where families could bring their children's bikes to have them repaired or, if necessary, replaced for free (or with a donation).