What can we do? part 2
by Jeff Stephens
In the April newsletter I wrote an article ("What can WE do?") that suggested the first step toward improving the culture on the road for cyclists is to improve OUR behavior. In the recent months, I’ve noticed a vigilant effort of self-policing at our weeknight rides, and a willingness of our members to improve their skills. Additionally, the three "Paceline & Cornering Skills" workshops organized by Todd Lee in July were a wonderful success…teaching dozens of our members, safe and effective methods for riding in groups. Let’s continue these activities, and continue to suggest our cycling peers strive to improve our behavior on the road!
For the last year, as an educational exercise, I have been informally polling COP cyclists. "What can we do to make cycling better in Central Ohio?" Interestingly, the vast majority, make no reference to trail programs, but rather, improving conditions for cyclists sharing the roadways with cars. Our discussions have generated many wonderful ideas like advocating for more police on bicycles, more bike rodeos for children, advocating bicycle awareness during driver’s education, riding our bikes in local parades, encouraging commuting by educating businesses and placing bike racks, holding varied cycling classes, advocating for physical enhancements to our roadways to facilitate safer cycling, etc.
While everyone agreed that our local trail system was beneficial for introducing people to cycling and as a valuable commuting artery, most felt that a more comprehensive approach to cycling development would move Columbus in the direction of benchmark cycling communities like Chicago, Seattle or Portland. The good news is that these communities have a proven history of effective programming that we can duplicate and implement in Columbus.
Discussions with these communities have helped us formulate an exciting vision. The Bicycle Development Fund Committee is interested in supporting a comprehensive advocacy program that:
We would like your help in building a comprehensive cycling advocacy program that supports Engineering, Education, Enforcement, and Encouragement. If you have comments, concerns, or a desire to lend your help, please contact me at (614) 781-8245 or jeff (AT) ohiolung.org.