Gorman Street connector aims to make greenways safer for bikers
A WRAL investigation recently revealed west Raleigh has the most dangerous streets for cyclists. A new project is hoping to make the trip a little safer.
Drivers and cyclists have to share the busy intersection at Hillsborough and Gorman streets. Anna Boatman is a frequent rider in the area, and says that traffic can get "a bit hairy."
When she wants to ride between the Reedy Creek and Rocky Branch greenway trails, Boatman has to navigate the traffic on Gorman Street.
There is no dedicated connection between the two trails.
"There seems to be a lot of room for growth for cycling infrastructure here, generally," she said.
Raleigh officials are working on improving the roads for cyclists with the Gorman Street Connector project. It will run between Hillsborough Street and Sullivan Drive connecting the Greenway trails.
One of the big features is a dedicated "cycle track" over the Gorman Street bridge.
The bike traffic will be separated from other vehicles.
"There's a lot of driver confusion, and I'm sure people don't feel safe on their bikes going over the bridge," said Chad Cantrell, senior engineer with the City of Raleigh.
Cyclists on the greenway said they’re looking forward to a greater sense of safety.
"It really does make a difference in how you feel about the experience," said Dave Connelly, a cyclist.
Construction began on Wednesday. Expect to see some lane closures on Gorman Street in the coming months.
The city hopes to complete the project by Thanksgiving.
