YARD to help connect streets to people in Erie

The Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network (SSJNN) has launched a new initiative to improve the safety and experience of walking and riding around the neighborhoods it serves. Its work will build off previous city planning to enhance multi-modal connectivity throughout Erie and focus on how near-term interventions can elevate a sense of community belonging, safety, and economic vibrancy.

“Along with the neighbors we serve, SSJNN is encouraged by Erie’s newer initiatives and plans to increase infrastructure for bicycle travel, pedestrian safety, and access to public transportation,” said Heather May Caspar, executive director of SSJNN. “We are excited to intentionally structure our ongoing work to support these improvements within the neighborhoods we serve.”

The initial objective centers around designing and installing a pilot project in 2023 and providing a 5-year work plan for incrementally and inclusively improving neighborhood connectivity through intersection modifications, beautification, and traffic calming. To support the efforts of the organization and its neighborhood partners, SSJNN has engaged the services of Cincinnati-based YARD & Company.

“YARD & Company has a history of successfully leading creative projects here in Erie,” said Caspar. “We look forward to wrapping our full community into their work with us, as we imagine together new methods of increasing engagement and awareness of the unique assets which can be so easily found within our neighborhoods.”

The project, which has been branded Connections, kicks off this week. Participants are invited to share their neighborhood experience and be part of the growing movement toward a more walkable future here.