Submitted by an NIT reader –
The improvements downtown and the warm weather have brought on an increase in bike traffic downtown. Cyclists are finding many great places to eat, drink coffee, shop and visit with friends. The store owners may like the new traffic, but the atmosphere is very new. Some motorists may feel like the bikers have taken over the area. Local residents have not experienced this much pedestrian traffic in the downtown area.
Here are a few tips for cyclists when using your bike to commute. Wear a helmet. Get lights. Wave to motorists and let them know where you are. Ride to the left. Don’t stop in the motorists blind spot. There are many more ways to stay safe. Talk to local cyclists or join the local touring club to learn more about biking safe.
Motorist can also help the traffic flow better. Keep a watchful eye when driving downtown. Allow extra time for cyclists. Recognize road hazards and give cyclists extra space in these areas. Give cyclists the right of way when the situation calls for it. Remember cyclists are allowed to ride close to the traffic lane and sometimes even in the lane of traffic.
Our downtown is now officially beautified. Cyclists should to keep in mind that using the architecture as a bike rack will be viewed as an eyesore for tourists visiting the Park Inn Hotel. Cyclists should remember to use the real bike racks. They are built into the sidewalk along side the mall entrances. The pipes can be used to lock your bike up.
If motorist and cyclists can use common sense when visiting our new downtown shopping area, everyone can enjoy a fun, safe summer!
Wonderful article, you said it all!
Hardly, the writer forgot to remind the bikers to obey ALL traffic laws/signals and signs.