Resident Input Wanted On Solon Connects Trails

SOLON, OH — Last month, Solon officials held a community meeting on the much-discussed Solon Connects plan. Now the city is looking for resident input on the plan.

The plan would improve pedestrian and bicycle pathways throughout the city and connect Solon to other communities.

"The intent of the Solon Connects Plan is simple: build stronger bike and pedestrian connections between existing civic, commercial, and open space assets creating equitable and safer transportation connections for everyone," the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission said.

One of the challenges facing Solon is its high number of commuters. The city is second only to Cleveland for people commuting to work, a planning commission official said. This led to roadways being designed almost exclusively for cars, not pedestrians.

With speed limits in excess of 35 mph, traffic can pose a threat to pedestrians. "Those kinds of roadways can isolate communities," Mike Mears, a county planning official, said during the town hall meeting on Solon Connects.

Additionally, while 23 percent of Solon residents live within 10 minutes of a park, many residents do not have the facilities they need to get there without a car. Solon scores an "11" on the county's walk score, which effectively means that all errands require a car.

Officials want to improve those conditions, but they need resident input on how to make things better and safer for pedestrians. A survey has been issued and can be completed online. Residents can use a digital map of Solon to tell planners where they would like to see a sidewalk, a crosswalk or another form of improvement.

The meeting can be rewatched below.