To PaCMan is to pedestrian and cycle Manitou Springs. This month PaCMan caught up with Chi Ito before departing for Japan with her daughter, Aiyume Potillo. Although Aiyume’s responses are not included below, it is noteworthy that she voluntarily started her own walking school bus with five other friends who opted to walk versus riding a bus or asking parents for a lift. Chi asserts they trekked in all types of weather and were never late.
How long have you been a resident and why did you choose to live in Manitou?
Almost 10 years. After living in Old Colorado City (OCC) 3 years, I was drawn to the intimate and friendly vibe in Manitou. Particularly, library events such as story times, playing in the parks, and making new friends came easily. DT Manitou’s walkability and the friendliness of familiar faces added to the experience.
What are the pros/cons of being a carless resident?
Pros include becoming familiar with and attuned with time, distance, weather, people, animals, nature, and surroundings in this area. Cons include limited food, healthcare, and employment access/opportunities. Limited public transportation offered in/out of town and service location and schedule can change.
What infrastructure and/or esthetic improvement would have the most positive impact on your walking experience?
Recent trail, sidewalk, and streetlight improvements, including Rockey’s plaque, and the eagle statue in the WAAP area are great enhancements. However, sections near CO Ski Furniture and uphill to Manitou Springs HS deserve attention in the winter when shady areas become icy, making walking difficult. Or consider broken glass and other trash that requires cleanup along our sidewalks and roadways which would enhance the walking experience.
What advice would you give someone who would like to give walking as transportation a try but does not have much time?
I was fortunate to work in town. However, give it a try and see what happens. Perhaps go without using your car for a period of time or chose to go carless for a day. Figure out your walking speed, how much time you need, pack light, and leave home prepared for weather.
What do you think would increase more walking and rolling of visitors and residents?
We can spread the fun vibe you feel in DT Manitou to other parts of town. Manitou is full of interesting history and stories. Walking to historical landmarks, plaques, mineral springs, statues, concrete couch structures and gardens allow you to discover new things. Perhaps scavenger hunt activities. Walking/running/bicycling events and parades are also great ways. Also, walking school buses are used where I come from. Manitou Springs Elementary does this. Parents, teachers, and communities work together to set up safe routes and supervisions along the way. Since children walk, people pay more attention to details, creating and achieving a safer climate.
What other form of transportation do you use and what has that experience been like?
I am grateful that I had many, many friends in town offer me rides. However, I also used MMT to OCC, DT CO Springs and to library locations elsewhere. MMT two-hour free transfer tickets are great, as is Manitou’s free shuttle. I did ride a bike for a stint until it went missing in OCC. Finally, I used both Greyhound and Bustang, and found Bustang to be a clean and relaxing experience.