Nicholson Trail is one of the most heavily used pedestrian and bicycle corridors in the Heights. Every day, residents, families, commuters, and visitors rely on the trail to walk, bike, and connect safely across the neighborhood.
https://atotb.org/campaigns/safe-crossings-on-nicholson-now/pedestrian-safety-island/
Yet many intersections along Nicholson remain uncontrolled, forcing trail users to rely on inconsistent driver yielding behavior. This creates unnecessary safety risks and discourages safe, predictable crossings.
A Tale of Two Bridges is working to establish controlled intersections along the full length of Nicholson Trail.
Take Action
Campaign Goal
Establish controlled crossings at every intersection along Nicholson Trail between W 7th Street and W 28th Street.
Controlled crossings may include:
- Four-way stop signs
- Two-way stop signs
- Raised intersections or raised crosswalks
- Traffic calming measures
- Other traffic control devices that improve safety
These improvements will create consistent, predictable, and safe crossings for everyone using the trail.
Why This Matters
Nicholson Trail functions as essential neighborhood infrastructure. It connects homes, parks, schools, and businesses, and serves as both a recreational and transportation corridor.
Safe crossings are critical to:
- Protect pedestrians and cyclists
- Reduce vehicle speeds
- Improve visibility at intersections
- Support neighborhood walkability and connectivity
- Ensure the trail remains safe for residents of all ages
As the Heights continues to grow, safe intersection design must keep pace with increased trail use.
Timeline of Advocacy
December 2021
Residents began submitting requests for safer crossings along Nicholson.
2022–2025
Community members documented trail usage and submitted extensive observations demonstrating consistent daily activity.
May 2025
ATOTB sends letter of support for MHRA (TIRZ 5) application to the TxDOT Transportation Alternatives Program Grant Program
September 2025
Formal requests were resubmitted to the City of Houston for evaluation and installation of traffic control measures at priority intersections.
November 2025
TxDOT awards $3.7M in funds construction for improvements to MKT and Nicholson trails
Advocacy efforts continue to expand along the full corridor.
