Good news on the sidewalk front

Earlier this month we launched a campaign to call attention to broken sidewalks and intersections lacking curb cuts. Our hope is that the city will designate some of our federal stimulus funds to making sidewalk repairs on our streets. Following some initial survey work, the "Take a Walk Campaign" team is starting to gather personal narratives about the hazards of unmaintained sidewalks. As we interview neighbors who travel by wheelchair, it is clear that everyone has a story to tell. You can read one of these stories, from a man named Philip who was wheeling down Brighton Avenue, on the Take a Walk blog.

During the first three weeks of the campaign Richard contacted two political bodies whose support would be necessary to get funds allocated: our local councilman's office and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA/LA). For a time we did not receive any reply. But at the end of last week Richard reached a CRA project manger, Billy Chun, who was very receptive to investing in sidewalk repairs and curb cuts. There is a meeting next Thursday for the project area we live in, and Mr. Chun says he will present our campaign to the other elected board members. If the idea receives a positive reception then he wants to approach the Council office. Meanwhile he plans to contact the Department of Engineering and other project managers who have carried out similar projects in CRA areas to gather cost information.

From the beginning we have hoped to address this need in partnership with the city, not in conflict with it. An ally in the CRA is great step toward this. Please pray that we will continue to find compassion and responsiveness among the officials, agencies and committees who wield decision-making power.