These lively pedestrian river bridge combos, Louisville, Nashville, Cincy, Minneapolis etc, all have one thing in common: Density on both sides.
For this idea to be truly successful, the Illinois side NEEDS to build up the East Riverfront. The fastest way to kick start this IMO is the amphitheater. Have it be the centerpiece of a greater development. Perhaps connect it to the casino. Build some bars on front street with decks facing the skyline. Eventually start building out a line of five over ones with amazing balcony views. Aim for 5k residents on the riverfront + attractions and the Eads Bridge linear park will be popping.
In the meantime, the footprint for vehicular traffic could be reduced to one lane in each direction with small shoulders. The new space could be turned into a nice and wide protected multiuse lane which would connect up to three planned Illinois greenways (Metrobikelink, Levee Trail, and Schoolhouse Trail) to STL City. This kind of connectivity could be vital in getting the above mentioned development off the ground.
For this idea to be truly successful, the Illinois side NEEDS to build up the East Riverfront. The fastest way to kick start this IMO is the amphitheater. Have it be the centerpiece of a greater development. Perhaps connect it to the casino. Build some bars on front street with decks facing the skyline. Eventually start building out a line of five over ones with amazing balcony views. Aim for 5k residents on the riverfront + attractions and the Eads Bridge linear park will be popping.
In the meantime, the footprint for vehicular traffic could be reduced to one lane in each direction with small shoulders. The new space could be turned into a nice and wide protected multiuse lane which would connect up to three planned Illinois greenways (Metrobikelink, Levee Trail, and Schoolhouse Trail) to STL City. This kind of connectivity could be vital in getting the above mentioned development off the ground.




