Tucson Standard

The City of Tucson has been awarded a $2,577,591 Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant to establish the Blacklidge Bicycle Boulevard, a 4.5-mile east-west route connecting Oracle Road to Columbus Boulevard. Tucson Mayor Regina Romero expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The Blacklidge Bicycle Boulevard will ensure Tucsonans of all ages who walk, bike, or roll can travel safely from east-to-west."

Mayor Romero also thanked the Congressional delegation and the U.S. Department of Transportation for their support in creating more walkable and thriving neighborhoods in Tucson. She emphasized the importance of investments in historically underserved areas to enhance safety for residents.

The project, partially funded by Proposition 407, aims to improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians and bicyclists while incorporating traffic calming features and landscaping to enhance the aesthetics of the neighborhoods. Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl highlighted the impact of the grant, stating, "As a result of this grant, the city of Tucson will be investing federal dollars to expand this biking network, create traffic calming infrastructure, and add landscaping to help decrease the urban heat effect."

Samuel Credio, Director of the Department of Transportation and Mobility, commended Mayor Romero and the City Council for prioritizing safe infrastructure for all modes of transportation. Credio emphasized the positive impact the Blacklidge Bicycle Boulevard will have on residents, particularly vulnerable users of the transportation system, by creating a low-stress environment and reconnecting neighborhoods through safe and accessible infrastructure.

The project aligns with the City of Tucson's Bicycle Boulevard Master Plan and reflects a vision of creating a more equitable transportation system that enhances quality of life for residents. The Blacklidge Bicycle Boulevard is a testament to Tucson's commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban development that addresses the challenges of climate change and promotes active transportation options for its citizens.