For the past month, I have been reading all the letters and editorials about the bike lanes and finally wish to have my say.
I have been riding the bike trails for over 20 years and for the past 15, I have been a commuting on my bicycle to and from my place of employment from early March to late November. (I rode all winter a few years but I admit it’s really a huge challenge.)
Because I commute very early in the morning or late at night, to be safe, I need to have a route that is well lit and not in the woods.
My husband and my adult daughter also commute on their bikes to work.
All these years we have ridden without the benefit of the bike lanes and have managed to stay safe by riding to the side of the road or on the sidewalk as needed. I always give the right of way to pedestrians. I do obey the rules of the road but I have seen some very scary behaviour on the part of some motorists who seem to be in far too much of a rush.
I am a professional, a homeowner, a car owner and a responsible, fairly nice person for the most part. I believe that riding my bike is an excellent choice for my health, the environment and it saves wear and tear on my vehicle. It is something I am happy to do, proud of myself for and think should be encouraged.
City Hall tried to get it right by creating the original lanes last summer. I really appreciated them, definitely felt safer in them and used them a lot because they were in places I ride normally. This year I was ecstatic to see the lanes increased but just as I was getting used to them, POOF! ... they were gone. Pretty stupid move that has only thoroughly confused everyone involved. The reaction to remove them was so knee-jerk that people who are timid and were just coming out to ride them have retreated.
Here is my frustration: I believe this action by the city to so quickly give in to opposition about this decision has empowered the hateful belligerence of some motorists. For the first time in 15 years, I am being harassed as I ride my bike down the street.
A war has erupted and it is not my fault. I have been yelled at, given the finger and had people shake their heads at me. This is pretty aggressive behaviour towards someone who is minding their own business. I’m just riding to work, enjoying the day.
In late August, my daughter who rides her bike everywhere year round was pushed off the road by a truck driver who was yelling obscenities as he did so. It totally terrified her as it was also very aggressive.
Now our concern for safety is not just with the traffic but aggression from ignorant individuals. It appears to be a form to insanity. I am sorry to see that this situation has unravelled the demeanour of so many.
I am still riding my bike. I was riding my bike long before the lanes and I will continue to do so come what may.
Patricia Stewart
Red Deer