Navigating San Antonio without a car remains a significant challenge. City streets are not particularly safe for cyclists or pedestrians, and the lack of a connected sidewalk and bike network hinders those who wish to engage in active transportation. However, recent statistics provide a glimmer of hope for those who prefer walking and biking.
In the first four months of 2024, 15 pedestrians have been struck and killed by cars. While this number is tragically high, it is the lowest total for this period since 2020, when 20 pedestrians lost their lives. On the downside, pedestrian injuries have reached a five-year peak this year. This increase might suggest that improvements to the sidewalk network are encouraging more people to walk. Unfortunately, it also means more interactions with cars, which continue to dominate San Antonio’s streets.
For bicyclists, 2024 has been particularly hazardous. Although only one cyclist has been killed so far this year, injuries have spiked, with 88 reported in the first four months. This figure continues a worrying upward trend in bicyclist injuries in the city. San Antonio’s extensive trail system along its rivers and creeks is ideal for recreational cycling, but accessing these trails often requires navigating heavy traffic and multiple intersections. The cyclist who was killed earlier this year was leaving one of these creek trails.
These statistics highlight a broader mobility issue for both pedestrians and cyclists in San Antonio. The city is making efforts to improve walkability and bikeability, with initiatives such as the new Bike Network Plan and the revamped Vision Zero program. While these plans will take years to implement fully, they represent a step in the right direction. San Antonio residents deserve safer, more accessible options for getting around without relying on cars.
Leave a Reply