[Chat] Need Biker Input

[Snakebite]

Gringos,



OK, here’s something that really dogs my cat.  If you’ve been paying
attention, the City has been raising the dikes along the Big Sioux River
over the past few years.  More is planned for this year and next.  Until
some of us spoke up, the City provided no alternate routes for Bike Trail
closure.



This year’s project will raise the dikes between 41st St and the zoo.  Both
sides of the river will be raised.  This project is slated to start late
spring this year AND NOT BE FINISHED UNTIL SOMETIME IN 2010!!!



It is my understanding the bike trail will be closed for the duration of the
project.  If the bike trail were only used by weekend revelers wanting some
recreation on their Huffy’s, I’d not think too much about it.  What the City
is apparently discounting are those of us who use the bicycle as either our
sole, primary, or preferred method of transport.



The weekend rec riders will find elsewhere to ride.  It is the bicycle
commuters who use the trail to get to and from work who are going to be
screwed as things stand.  It is also my understanding there is no alternate
route planned.



I’ve presented my concern to Sam Trebilcock (with the City Planning Office)
and he’s acknowledged my concern and has urged attendance to the Open House
on Wednesday.  I’ve attached the flyer as a PDF file for your use.



Normally I use this method of communication to announce bike rides or trips
or to invite you all along for some of my hi-jinx.  This time I’m asking you
for something.  I’m asking for your attendance at the open house meeting
(see attached).  It will be optimal if you’d ride your bike there dressed
appropriately.  It would be awesome to fill the room with rollers to make
the biggest impact.  It is my intent to present my argument bikes are more
than just a recreational toy, people use bikes to get to and from their
jobs, the bike trail is one route used by these commuters, and removing this
route without providing an alternate is an abomination (I’ve patiently
waited for the day I could use “abomination” in an email!).



This is a *VERY* important issue.  If bikers make a stand now, do not allow
this project to go forward without a viable alternate route, then we’ll be
taking a big step toward more bike infrastructure justification.  Doing
nothing will demonstrate apathy and an apparent conciliatory attitude that
bikes and biking really are nothing more than toys and recreational
activities only.



Please be at the open house.  You don’t have to say anything if you don’t
want to.  Your presence will be noticed and is vital to this action step.



~Snakebite~
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