It’s sNOw life for wimps–walking in Truckee

Posted on January 9, 2008
Filed Under Uncategorized |

Mountain living certainly requires a different breed to survive. Take the “blizzard” of last week. We’re still not done shoveling out on the summit, the store was closed a few days (not bad when you consider the powder enjoyed), and we seriously need studded tires. In light of all that, we love it up in North Lake Tahoe, and love living where one can always be surprised by what the day presents.

One thing that I haven’t adapted to in Truckee is the lack of sidewalks. I’d love to walk from Brickelltown down to the Book & Bean when I need inspiration only a book can provide, or just to head a few doors down to Trio Wine Bar to take in the latest local artist’s opening (it’s Jan Frewer’s photographs, by the way). But, if you have ever parked in Brickelltown, you know you’re taking your life into your hands when walking east on Donner Pass Road. We live in an area that encourages physical activity, clean water, and breathable air, yet we have to jump into our cars for what should be a safe, ten minute walk.

Having moved from a very walkable neighborhood in the Bay Area to a suddenly dangerous walk for a pick me up, it’s disappointing to not be able to get out and stretch the legs once in a while. Summer walking is not nearly as life-threatening–unless you walk west on Donner Pass Road to head up toward Mountain Hardware (granted, I need a truck for everything I buy there). Winter walking is a whole different beast. There are sidewalks on the north side of the street…if only they were all cleared, or people didn’t park their cars on the sidewalks that are cleared. But, in a very few instances, we have no sidewalk and must walk in the street into oncoming traffic. If you’ve braved that walk, and decide to head west, your back is facing traffic the whole way.

Let’s green Truckee in one of the best ways…make it walkable, bikeable and safe for everyone who does not have a car or chooses not to use it for short trips. Until then…watch out for pedestrians on Donner Pass Road…there are quiet a few!

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