Letters

Thu., June 10, 2010

The Spokesman-Review

Don’t walk away from safety project

In spite of recent kudos I have read regarding bike-friendliness in the Spokane area, I am one of many who are disappointed that the Spokane Valley City Council may choose to suspend the Broadway Avenue Safety Project; which would have improved safety for multiple modes of transportation in Spokane Valley.

What a shame to lose grant money in hand for improvements to Broadway Avenue. It seems hypocritical to apply for further grants while throwing away one already awarded. One citizen recommended that bicycles ride on the sidewalks. This is illegal in Spokane Valley and many other areas with reason. Not consistently enforcing a law doesn’t make it an unnecessary law.

Bicycles were originally relegated to the streets (see 100 years ago May 23rd; The Spokesman-Review) and have been banned in many areas from sidewalks for safety reasons. A pedestrian-bicycle collision can and has caused fatal injury to the pedestrian.

As a motorist, I have had several near-collisions with bicycles on sidewalks due to the narrow field of vision and speed of the bicycle. As a cyclist, I ride in areas both with and without bike lanes. Where bike lanes are present, I have had very few problems with motorists.

With two-thirds of Valley residents overweight/obese (cited by Spokane County Health District), it is imperative to provide opportunities for our citizens to be both active and safe. My fellow cyclists represent educated and professional citizens who are also motorists. Bicycle lanes provide a guideline for safe clearance for both motorists and cyclists. Please do not throw away this opportunity to enrich and enhance Spokane Valley.

Cathy Harris

Veradale

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