SW0801-CS011108 David Warner
841 Falcon Lane D ( a V l
Coppell, TX 75019 v
972.304.8344 NO
-
8 2001
November 8, 2001
C T Y O F ER
Q � COPP COPPELL
Mr. Jim Witt A ,� ; h 45a
City Manager - City of Coppell
255 Parkway Blvd. c<,...'- 97 c),,'$,
Coppell, TX 27019
Dear Jim,
I am a local runner training for the upcoming Dallas White Rock Marathon. My training
runs have taken me on many of the roads throughout our city. Hopefully you can assist
me with two questions.
My first question has to do with sidewalks along Denton Tap. I am speaking of the area
north of Bethel Road, and south of Parkway. It is interesting to note that there are not
continuous sidewalks along this area. I assume for undeveloped parcels the city may be
waiting for the developer to build sidewalks. But I do not understand why many of the
developed tracts, many of which provide retail and civic uses do not have sidewalks. I
can think of one instance where a monument sign comes within probably one foot of the
roadway making passage without getting into the street very dangerous. There are also
areas where designated crosswalks terminate into grass areas.
My second question came about after discussion with two different local police officers,
as I often stop for water at the Justice Center. Given the lack of sidewalks along Denton
Tap, and many other streets in Coppell, my tendency is to run in the street, into traffic. I
remember being told when I was a young tot the proper procedure is to ride your bike
with traffic, and pedestrians are to walk/run into traffic. When asked to confirm this is
correct, one officer confirmed I was correct. The second officer stated pedestrians have
no right to be in any street. The officer stated that streets are for cars and the only right
pedestrians have to be in a street is to cross at a designated crosswalk.
I would appreciate your assistance in clarifying to me and my fellow runners and joggers
where the appropriate and legal places are for us to run relative to Coppell streets. Do we
or for that mater any citizens have a legal right to be on the streets of Coppell where no
sidewalks are provided? Thanks for your attention to this matter.
Sincere ;
David arner