Editorial: Better biking

Planners made a smart move by including a bicycle-pedestrian path across the Scudder Falls Bridge.

The addition of a 10-foot-wide bike path costing $18 million will enrich the lives of untold numbers of people for generations. Since the bridge straddles a regional trail network on both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides of the Delaware River, the pedestrian crossing will open up new recreational routes for miles.

No wonder the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia hailed the announcement Tuesday. Bridge engineers said the replacement bridge linking Bucks and Mercer Counties would include the path alongside nine vehicle lanes.

Several months ago, commission officials were worried about the cost of adding a walkway. To their credit, they invited public comment - which was overwhelmingly in favor of doing whatever it takes to make room for pedestrians and cyclists.

Give bridge officials credit for finding a way to cover the costs within the current budget, and kudos to citizens who spoke up.