TITLE
Recommendation to respectfully request City Council support for naming the bicycle and pedestrian path on the new Gerald Desmond Bridge after Mark Bixby;
Request City Manager communicate City Council’s support to our local State legislative delegation, Caltrans District 7 and our State Legislation Committee; and
Request City Manager add this project to the Bicycle Master Plan as it is being updated.
DISCUSSION
Just two days before his untimely death, Mark Bixby led a delegation of bicycle enthusiasts requesting assurances from the Port that a bicycle and pedestrian path would be irrevocably included in the final project and budget for the new Gerald Desmond Bridge.
Just six months prior, the idea of having a bike and pedestrian path on the new bridge could be described at best as “a dream”. However, Mark was tireless in his efforts to educate and inspire all parties involved to understand the importance of these facilities both to the Port with its focus on sustainability, and the City as it endeavors to become one of the most bike-friendly cities in the nation. Through his guidance, leader in the cycling community and volunteers worked in partnership with nearly 20 organizations, clubs and advocacy groups to raise awareness of the need for bicycle and pedestrian paths to create viable and safe routes to Terminal Island (Bikeable Communities). Mark’s passion and vision inspired so many to advocate for what he liked to call the “Bridge to Everywhere”. It is amazing to think that in six short months, a project of this size and scope, which had been in the works for years, could provide even greater benefits to our community, but the decision by the Port of Long Beach to include a bicycle and pedestrian path will benefit the entire community for generations to come.
By all accounts, this bridge will be iconic and award winning, gaining international attention and securing its place among Long Beach’s most notable tourist landmarks. Upon completi...
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