BACA Advocacy

BACA believes that both motorists and bicyclists share the responsibility of safely utilizing the public roadways. Bicycling is not only a great form of exercise, it is one of the most efficient and cost effective means of transportation. Riding a bicycle has many obvious health benefits. It also reduces the demand on the roadways and can play a significant role in reducing air pollution levels and traffic congestion.

BACA is working closely with government agencies and other individuals on a number of exciting bicycle/pedestrian trail development issues and other projects designed to expand cycling, running and walking opportunities throughout the area.

As a part of the Share The Road initiative, BACA intends to explore the following possibilities:

Place “Share The Road” road signs along key bike corridors. The signs would be intended to alert motorists that bicyclists frequently utilize the identified routes. Develop and implement a motorist and bicyclist education program. Develop and distribute literature on how to Share The Road safely and to highlight the benefits of cycling. Explore the possibility of obtaining special “Share The Road” automobile license plates. Design and distribute bumper stickers with the Share The Road message. Inform both cyclists and motorists on the applicable laws regarding shared road usage and the responsibilities of all users of public roadways.

Please check this webpage for periodic updates on the progress of the Share The Road initiative.

Head-On

If meeting a pedestrian head-on on a bike path or the River Trail, the bicyclist, as the faster moving participant in the encounter, must chose where to go. Pick the side with the most room, and catch their eye by moving around a bit. Slow down and point to the direction you plan to pass. If you can't get their attention, slow down even more, and swing wider around them.

From the Rear

When approaching a pedestrian from the rear, pass as far away as you can to avoid startling them. Say "Passing left," or "Passing right" to let them know that there's a bicycle approaching and what action they should take. If they have headphones on, you might need to shout; otherwise, just use a slightly louder than normal voice. Don't wait until you are on top of them, but don't yell from so far away that they won't know they're affected. As always, slow down to pass.

Crosswalks

Pedestrians in crosswalks seem to have a hard time estimating the speed with which a bicycle is approaching and tend to assume it's moving slower than it is. If you see a pedestrian approaching a crosswalk, prepare to slow down, and try to catch their attention. Remember that they're watching for cars, not bikes. If they step out in front of you, stop.

Kids on Bike paths

Parents often take children for walks on bike paths because they're isolated from the dangerous streets. Give them as wide a berth as you can. Never get between a child and its parent, and make sure they know that you know that they're in front of you by smiling or saying "Hi." A similar rule can be followed for dealing with dogs and their masters.

Bicyclists and pedestrians fill similar places in the transportation grid. With cooperation, we can get and keep pleasant places to bicycle and walk.