The Exponent


10/15/01	5 day quick link 10/12 \| 10/11 \| 10/10 \| 10/5 \| 10/4

Bicycle paths act as pedestrian protectors

A recent writer complained about pedestrians restricting bicycle travel on the so-called "bike paths" on campus. I partially agree with her but it also brings up the whole, unworkable nature of these paths. They were never designed to enhance bicycle travel, they were meant to restrict cyclists to specific areas (a fine example of this is the path off of Grant Street that is placed over drainage grates that become slippery when wet).

I see little chance of improvement here. In my many years on campus, as both student and staff, about the only improvement I have seen for cyclists is the addition of better-quality bike racks. Having said that, the only option then is to become a better cyclist. By law, sidewalks are for pedestrians and bicyclists must yield at all times. This even includes the times when pedestrians appear out of nowhere and step in front of you.

That means you may have to ride at a pedestrian pace or even slower. I frequently use the sidewalks if they are a direct shot to a bike rack but I also realize that many times it is much quicker to go the long way on the street. You have legal rights on the street that you do not have on a sidewalk.

I have not had a campus motor-vehicle parking permit for years and

I ride several thousands of miles a season. Part of knowing how to ride is knowing how to negotiate both motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic. I am a certified cycling instructor so I know that it is possible to ride safely with traffic. If riding in traffic is not for you the only other option is to crawl along slowly on the sidewalks yielding to everyone you see.

Norm Olson

Graduate student

Related Coverage

Editorial

Jischke brings record, abilities to committee

MARTINS: comic

Letters

American freedom allows no injustice

Cyclist’s letter shows disregard, stupidity