@Kbikeva 227110 wrote:
Hate to burst the bubble, but that is wishful reporting by ArlNow. The W&OD has not named any bridge on the trail for any person. Some are named for the water feature they cross.
Pete was my friend, and I do think he merits recognition somewhere, but that bridge isn’t going to be where it happens.
At present, bench donation on the W&OD is on hold as well while the staff evaluate the existing benches for wear/tear and potential replacement.
One way to recognize Pete that would be awesome would be to install a set of bike tools somewhere along the trail where it’s a bit too much for walking between shops.
I’m the president of the Friends of the W&OD, so if anyone wants to promote that (or some idea we’ve not yet discussed), I’m happy to advocate for something that fits in the guidelines.
A feature can be called something and be generally regarded as having that name, even if it’s not “official.” The Iwo Jima Memorial being an example: it’s commonly called that even though that is not its official designation. And everyone knows what is meant when it is referred to that way.
Likewise with this bridge. If people (including ArlNow) continually refer to it as the Pete Beers Memorial Bridge (or “Pete Beers Bridge” for short), then it will de facto become that. Even more “de facto” if it has no competing official name, as versus the Iwo Jima Memorial.
kbikeva – just because no bridge in the past has been named after someone doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Guidelines are just that – guidelines. They can be changed or waived or disregarded if merited. I recommend you suggest the bridge be officially named its de facto name. After all, there have even been signs there calling it that, and there is – AFAICT – no downside.
