Dear City Council Members,

We are writing to express our concern about the proposed plan to replace parking spaces in East Deering with bike lanes. While we understand the importance of promoting sustainable transportation options, we believe that this plan will have a negative impact on the community.

Firstly, removing parking spaces will create a significant inconvenience for residents and visitors who rely on cars for transportation. This is especially true for those who have limited mobility or people who rely on couriers. According to a study conducted by the National Parking Association, reducing available parking spaces can lead to increased traffic congestion and decreased economic activity in the affected area.

Secondly,  with the B&M campus being transformed into the Rioux institute, and estimated 2250 trips in and out per day, there will be an increased need for parking in the neighborhood. A need that will not be met by having people bike in. Realistically, once snow flies, they will be completely useless until spring. The implementation of bikelanes will be taking away valuable parking spots from already established residents, and local business owners.

Lastly, it's important to consider that not everyone is able or willing to use bicycles as their primary mode of transportation. Forcing people out of their cars without providing adequate alternatives can create unnecessary hardship and frustration, and is unfair to people unable to ride bicycles. This mindset is quite ableist, and will only benefit people who ride bikes recreationally. 

We urge you to reconsider this plan and work towards finding alternative solutions that benefit all members of the community. Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,

The Residents and Business owners of East Deering 

More information on bikeways can be found here:

https://portland.civilspace.io/en/projects/better-bikeways-initiative