Atlanta just might be the most anti cycling large city in the nation
With few sidewalks, little shoulder, and a car loving community that would make Detroit proud, Atlanta has long been known for not being the most cycling friendly city. If it’s up to Cobb County, that friendliness could be taken down a huge notch. According to a report (free login required), the county is considering setting up a “cruising” ordinance, with fines up to $500, that looks to be aimed specifically at cyclist. Dennis Hoffarth, executive director of the advocacy group called The Atlanta Bicycle Campaign, said he has checked with biking groups across the nation and none have heard of such a law as the one Cobb County is proposing.
I’ve been to Columns Drive many times to run but never bike. I’ve never had a problem with cyclists on that road but have seen instances at other areas where cyclists seem to have lost their cool. As cyclists we have a right to the road just as much as a car does. At the same time though, we need to realize that we must keep our senses keenly aware and defensive riding skills sharp, not only for our own safety but for the betterment of the cycling community. A few bad apples in the cycling community do a lot more damage than a few bad apples on the road. Voice your opinion tonight at the public hearing (no information on the location)!
I don’t know the particulars of ATL bike politics, but in Virginia Beach VA we see the same sort of thing: A public facade of “bike friendliness” and then, in terms of policy decisions, funding, and priorities, lots of anti-bike practices.
I don’t know if national advocacy (like http://bikesbelong.org) is the answer, or more local efforts, but our cities can’t have it both ways.
Comment by grant — January 24, 2007 @ 2:22 pm
Thanks for the link Grant. Looks like that site has got some good information.
Comment by kfordham281 — January 24, 2007 @ 9:22 pm
I live in Atlanta and ride occasionally on Columns Drive. It is essentially a training loop used by cyclists of all levels yesr round. For Cobb to even put something like this on paper demonstrates a frightening disregard for the health and safety of riders. I have seen examples of poor cycling and bad manners on two wheels. But I have never seen a rider who could in any way endanger an SUVdriver or even someone in a Porsche or VW. It’s just inconceivable that Cobb is even suggesting this.
Comment by Ken Gilbert — January 24, 2007 @ 9:59 pm