Dear Motorists:
We haven’t interviewed all of you, but we have talked with a few about their individual encounters with one of downtown Wheeling’s new streetscaped bioswales.
“Didn’t see it.”
“My truck sits too high to see them.”
And the most popular alibi, “It came out of nowhere.”
We get it. They are new; we’re not used to them; and let’s face it, the era of everyone paying attention and engaging their respective communities has passed, so it is very possible a portion of local residents has never heard of a bioswale, a bump out, or a streetscape.
In other words, maybe you REALLY didn’t know you would need to adapt while parking in downtown thanks to the new-and-improved designs of our curbs and sidewalks. And maybe, SOMEHOW, you didn’t notice the new trees, traffic lights, and protruding walkways on your way to your fateful, historic encounter with the stormwater-collecting caverns.
But, by now, you – and everyone else in the region – should be aware, right? At this point, we’ve seen the posted photos, had a chuckle at others’ expense, and now know the definition of “bioswale,” so we’re good, right? There’s no need for “BEWARE OF THE BIOSWALES!” signs along the newly crafted roadways, correct?
Now, let’s spread the word to family and friends, be careful out there, and please try to appreciate the improvements instead of resisting changes that aren’t going away anytime soon.
Sincerely,
Just Neighbors Helping Neighbors
