Bikeboard November 2013

bikeboard@lists.bikelover.org

17 participants
26 discussions

December 5, Bike Board Meeting, Agenda Items
by Gunnar Shogren 04 Dec '13

04 Dec '13

Good morning all, Does it seem that November was a short month or what? I'm betting that December is gonna seem even shorter, bah humbug! But regardless we have a BB meeting this next Thursday, here is first call for agenda items. So stop your shopping for a moment and send me some things! Thankfully yours.

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Fwd: WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting
by Frank Gmeindl 24 Nov '13

24 Nov '13

Looks like the WVCC legislative platform for this year will include: Try again for a 3-foot passing law; Repeal 17C-11-5 (a) that requires cyclists to ride as far to the right side of the roadway as practicable OR replace it with language that says, "...far enough to the right as judged safe by the bicyclist to facilitate the movement of overtaking vehicles"; Repeal 17C-11-5 (c) that requires, "Whenever a usable path for bicycles has been provided adjacent to a roadway, bicycle riders shall use such path and shall not use the roadway..."; Repeal 17C-11-7 (b) that requires bicycles to be equipped with a bell or other device capable of giving an signal audible for at least one hundred feet..."; Add a Vulnerable User Law (e.g. http://www.bikeleague.org/content/model-legislation ). Below is the thread of communication among the WVCC legislative committee members. Read from bottom up. The thread spans Nov. 14 - 22. On Nov. 18 at 10 am, the committee had a meeting in Charleston with several members including me dialing in. I am not happy with the outcome. As you can see from the thread below. I tried to get them to focus on repealing 17C-11-5 (a) that requires cyclists to ride far to the right. I'm afraid they'll go to the legislature inadequately prepared and come out with legislation that is more harmful to bicyclists than the laws that we have now. I'm stymied and would appreciate any ideas. Frank Begin forwarded message: > From: "Steve Fowler" <SMF(a)pffwv.com> > Date: November 22, 2013 4:11:07 PM EST > To: "Strawn, Dennis A" <dennis.strawn(a)highmark.com>, "Christiaan Abildso" <cgabildso(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, "Frank Gmeindl" <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, "Greg Garrett" <gagarrett(a)gmail.com>, "John Francis" <johncfrancis13(a)gmail.com>, "Craig Slaughter" <Craig.Slaughter(a)wvimb.org>, "Patrick Donovan" <pdonovan(a)njrati.org>, "Rahul Gupta" <rahul.gupta(a)wv.gov>, "Don Spencer" <dspencer36(a)comcast.net>, "Emmett Pepper" <epepper(a)vt.edu>, "Gary Zuckett" <garyz(a)wvcag.org> > Cc: "Kasey Russell" <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com> > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > I agree with Dennis, including the 3 foot rule. I think we can sell it as follows: > > We have looked at the statutes of all 50 states, and worked with the leading advocates for bicycle safety and increasing ridership and these changes will bring WV into a leadership position with no cost at all to the State. We can use these statutes as a jumping off point to push tourism in the State as one the best cycling destinations in the country. > > > > From: Strawn, Dennis A [mailto:dennis.strawn@highmark.com] > Sent: Friday, November 22, 2013 2:05 PM > To: Steve Fowler; Christiaan Abildso; Frank Gmeindl; Greg Garrett; John Francis; Craig Slaughter; Patrick Donovan; Rahul Gupta; Don Spencer; Emmett Pepper; Gary Zuckett > Cc: Kasey Russell > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Hi all, > I have been following the conversation and have been enjoying it. I like that we can share our thoughts openly. I perused the Rutgers 3-foot report and have seen the animation about taking the lane, which I agree would be a fabulous tool to have on continuous loop for anyone at the capitol to see. > > I think we have unanimous thoughts to repeal the 'far right', side path' and 'bike bell' laws. And I think we have a majority in favor of introducing the 3-ft rule again. > > I do not think it is at all too ambitious. It is very doable, revenue neutral and is the very reason we introduced it last year. > > I hope that we all not get to wrapped up in language, because as Gary stated, which I know is true too, what goes in and what comes out at the legislature is different. > > So let's set this agenda and work with our key representatives and their staff to get the best start we can for the upcoming session. > > I really like the vulnerable user law conversation and it looks like Lab does too. They have helped get introduced new legislation concerning this subject, click the link below. > > http://www.bikeleague.org/content/take-action-curb-bikeped-fatalities > > Right now US DOT has refused to set a safety goal for non-motorized transportation. The new law would require US DOT to present one. The law would then direct state DOTs to measure safety and reduce bike/ped incidents. I am sure WVCC will be talking to our local representatives to support this and we hope you will too. > > Thanks > Dennis Strawn > TQO Tech Team > 304-347-7703 > From: Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com> > Date: November 22, 2013 11:09:15 AM EST > To: Emmett Pepper <epepper(a)vt.edu>, Gary Zuckett <garyz(a)wvcag.org> > Cc: Steve Fowler <SMF(a)pffwv.com>, Christiaan Abildso <cgabildso(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Greg Garrett <gagarrett(a)gmail.com>, Kasey Russell <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com>, John Francis <johncfrancis13(a)gmail.com>, Dennis A Strawn <dennis.strawn(a)highmark.com>, Craig Slaughter <Craig.Slaughter(a)wvimb.org>, Patrick Donovan <pdonovan(a)njrati.org>, Rahul Gupta <rahul.gupta(a)wv.gov>, Don Spencer <dspencer36(a)comcast.net> > Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > I would limit the platform to repealing 17C-11-5(a) which requires bicyclists to ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable because it endangers bicyclists. > > I would like us to give Gary and Emmett whatever support they need to get it repealed. > > IMHO, we should start by understanding why FTR endangers bicyclists. We should test our understanding by trying to enlighten others, e.g. WVDOH. > > Then, we should prepare responses to all possible objections to repealing FTR. For example, some will object, "If bicyclists are allowed to ride in the middle of the lane, I won't be able to pass them and they'll impede traffic". To that, we could respond that besides granting bicyclists the same rights as drivers of vehicles, 17C-11-2 also subjects bicyclists to the same duties as applicable to vehicle drivers and that 17C-7-3 (a) (2) requires, "...the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle..." Of course, we must also know that 17C-7-3 (a) (1) requires, the driver of the overtaking vehicle to "...pass to the left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle." > > Maybe then, after we have a radiation-hardened case for FTR repeal, we can try making sausages. > > > Frank D. Gmeindl > LCI #1703 > 491 Wilson Avenue > Morgantown, WV 26501 > 304-376-0446 > Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles > > > > From: "Don Spencer" <dspencer36(a)comcast.net> > Date: November 20, 2013 7:55:42 PM EST > To: "'Steve Fowler'" <SMF(a)pffwv.com>, "'Emmett Pepper'" <epepper(a)vt.edu>, "'Gary Zuckett'" <garyz(a)wvcag.org> > Cc: "'Christiaan Abildso'" <cgabildso(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, "'Frank Gmeindl'" <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, "'Greg Garrett'" <gagarrett(a)gmail.com>, "'Kasey Russell'" <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com>, "'John Francis'" <johncfrancis13(a)gmail.com>, "'Dennis A Strawn'" <dennis.strawn(a)highmark.com>, "'Craig Slaughter'" <Craig.Slaughter(a)wvimb.org>, "'Patrick Donovan'" <pdonovan(a)njrati.org>, "'Rahul Gupta'" <rahul.gupta(a)wv.gov> > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Steve – Regardless of where it came from, it still has the weaknesses that I mentioned. In my opinion “far to the right” anything does not constitute model legislation that we should support. > > The value of the video is that it shows the weakness of being at the right for other reasons than “judging movement of overtaking vehicles”. It includes relationships to oncoming vehicles; the danger of holes, grates and debris on the edge of the road; and keeping the bicycle vehicle visible to turning and entering traffic. The tape also demonstrates a positioning on the road surface which enables the cyclist to ‘move’ any overtaking traffic into a passing lane, rather providing any encouragement to the motor vehicle driver(s) to consider estimating a questionable 3 foot squeeze-by measurement while negotiating oncoming traffic at a speed over 35 miles an hour. > > In my opinion, our platform for the “far to the right issue” should be the tape and whatever wording which enables it to be the standards for WV use of road surfaces by bicycle vehicle drivers. With the exception of the “far to the right” and the 3 foot rule, I support the other points that you make in your platform. If necessary, I could support the 3 foot rule if it relates only to a traffic speed zone of 35 miles an hour or less – with the rule being 4 feet in traffic speed zones exceeding 35 miles per hour. > > Don > > From: Steve Fowler [mailto:SMF@pffwv.com] > Sent: Wednesday, November 20, 2013 4:13 PM > To: Don Spencer; Emmett Pepper; Gary Zuckett > Cc: Christiaan Abildso; Frank Gmeindl; Greg Garrett; Kasey Russell; John Francis; Strawn, Dennis A; Craig Slaughter; Patrick Donovan; Rahul Gupta > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > The language is from the Colorado Statute that the League holds out as a model. > > From: Don Spencer [mailto:dspencer36@comcast.net] > Sent: Wednesday, November 20, 2013 4:08 PM > To: Steve Fowler; 'Emmett Pepper'; 'Gary Zuckett' > Cc: 'Christiaan Abildso'; 'Frank Gmeindl'; 'Greg Garrett'; 'Kasey Russell'; 'John Francis'; 'Dennis A Strawn'; 'Craig Slaughter'; 'Patrick Donovan'; 'Rahul Gupta' > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Steve – My first reaction to your words, “far enough to the right as judged safe by the bicyclist to facilitate of movement of overtaking vehicles” is that it is 1) a bit cumbersome and too complex – especially for persons taking a DMV driving test, 2) too much like the current “as far to the right as possible”, and 3) unenforceable by law enforcement personnel. I think we have to let go of the dysfunctional “far to the right” mindset and have confidence in the much greater safety for cyclists which comes when cyclists act as legitimate and responsible vehicles on roadways. As the film shows there is no greater assurance of safety which accrues to a cyclist by being as “far to the right”. In fact the vulnerability is usually greater for the numerous reasons carefully presented. > > Don > > From: Steve Fowler [mailto:SMF@pffwv.com] > Sent: Wednesday, November 20, 2013 8:49 AM > To: Emmett Pepper; Gary Zuckett > Cc: Christiaan Abildso; Frank Gmeindl; Greg Garrett; Kasey Russell; John Francis; Dennis A Strawn; Craig Slaughter; Patrick Donovan; Rahul Gupta; Don Spencer > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Here is my draft of the platform to pursue in this legislative session: > > Overhaul our current code to make WV a bicycle friendly state in the WV Code. Repeal the “as far right as practicable” and replace it with “far enough to the right as judged safe by the bicyclist to facilitate of movement of overtaking vehicles”. Adopt a vulnerable user statute. Repeal law that requires bike path use and prohibits use of the adjacent roadway. Repeal the mandatory bicycle bell law. Adopt a three foot passing rule. > > We can prepare packets of info with a copy of the bike video, and materials from the League of American Bicyclists to demonstrate that these are model statutes being adopted in forward thinking states. > > If this agenda is too ambitious for the legislators we meet with, then we will focus on the repeal of the “as far right as practicable” statute. > > > Kasey, the League of American Bicyclists used to be called the League of American Wheelmen. I’m not sure when they changed their name. > > From: Emmett Pepper [mailto:epepper@vt.edu] > Sent: Wednesday, November 20, 2013 4:50 AM > To: Gary Zuckett > Cc: Christiaan Abildso; Frank Gmeindl; Greg Garrett; Kasey Russell; John Francis; Steve Fowler; Dennis A Strawn; Craig Slaughter; Patrick Donovan; Rahul Gupta; Don Spencer > Subject: RE: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Playing that video in committee would be great. Also, maybe a table in the hallway with a computer setup for people to watch it? I'm envisioning a big banner that says something like "Forcing bicycles to the right is unsafe" to catch people's eye. You all would know better than I if that is a cost-effective use of resources, but I know I like to stop at tables during the session. > > Also, forgive my ignorance on this, but are there committee staffers who could benefit from educating ahead of the session? Having people behind the scenes who understand where we are coming from might be a good strategy since I think there generally needs to be education on our positions. Until I saw this video, I didn't fully understand why forcing people on bikes to the right was bad. This could also help with getting the video onto the committee agenda. > > -Emmett > > P.S. Is Charleston's newly revised trestle rail-trail plan a finalized document or is commenting ongoing? Put another way, is there an outlet for involvement in these issues at the local level here in Charleston? > > On Nov 19, 2013 6:14 PM, "Gary Zuckett" <garyz(a)wvcag.org> wrote: > This is an excellent educational tool for our campaign. We need to figure how to get the legislators to watch it. Maybe get permission to play it in committee when bill is discussed? > > From: Frank Gmeindl [mailto:fgmeindl@gmail.com] > Sent: Tuesday, November 19, 2013 3:49 PM > To: Steve Fowler > Cc: Emmett Pepper; Strawn, Dennis A; John Francis; Kasey Russell; Rahul Gupta; Greg Garrett; Gary Zuckett; bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com Board; Patrick Donovan; Christiaan Abildso; Craig Slaughter; Don Spencer > Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > WVCC Legislative Committee Members, > > This one-minute animation: http://commuteorlando.com/ontheroad/animations/narrowlane/narrowlane.html illustrates many of the hazards of riding far right as required by 17C-11-5 (a). > > The cyclist must be allowed to choose a lane position that avoids these hazards. > > A 3-foot passing law will not mitigate: > * motorists pulling out in front of edge-riding bicyclists; > * right-turning vehicles colliding with edge-riding cyclists (right hook); > * on-coming left-turning vehicles crashing into edge-riding cyclists (left cross); > * overtaking vehicles rear-ending cyclists who make left turns from the right side of the road; > * edge-riding cyclists crashing because of debris, potholes, cracks, animals and pedestrians that are more prevalent at the right edge of the roadway. > > Repealing 17C-11-5 (a) will free cyclists to choose a lane position that minimizes these hazards as well as close passes. > > > Frank D. Gmeindl > LCI #1703 > 491 Wilson Avenue > Morgantown, WV 26501 > 304-376-0446 > Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles > > > On Nov 18, 2013, at 9:26 AM, Steve Fowler wrote: > > > I would propose the following; > > 1. Do we focus on the passage of the “three foot rule” or attempt to clean up all the problem statutes? > 2. Current law for passing a bike requires an audible signal, and then passing and returning to the lane of travel only when “safe”. Almost no one follows this law when passing a bicycle. An easy to understand “three foot rule” would be much better. > > Problem statutes/ > > a/ 17C-11-5(a) “as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable” > Fix – Colorado law “far enough to the right as judged safe by the bicyclist to facilitate the movement of overtaking vehicles” > > b/ 17C-11-5(c) Have to use a bike path > Fix – repeal > c/ 17C-11-7(b) have to use a bell > From: Kasey Russell <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com> > Fix – repeal. > Date: November 15, 2013 10:11:07 AM EST > To: Emmett Pepper <epepper(a)vt.edu>, Don Spencer <dspencer36(a)comcast.net>, Frank Gmeindl <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net>, Gary Zuckett <garyz(a)wvcag.org> > Cc: Rahul Gupta <rahul.gupta(a)wv.gov>, "Strawn, Dennis A" <dennis.strawn(a)highmark.com>, Patrick Donovan <pdonovan(a)njrati.org> > Subject: Re: WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > All: attached is the bill from last year. It was killed on third reading on Special Calendar on the House Floor. > Obviously, whatever we decide to pursue, we will devise a different strategy :). > kasey > > From: Kasey Russell <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com> > Date: November 15, 2013 9:54:43 AM EST > To: Emmett Pepper <epepper(a)vt.edu> > Cc: Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, Don Spencer <dspencer36(a)comcast.net>, Gary Zuckett <garyz(a)wvcag.org>, Rahul Gupta <rahul.gupta(a)wv.gov>, "Strawn, Dennis A" <dennis.strawn(a)highmark.com>, Patrick Donovan <pdonovan(a)njrati.org>, Christiaan Abildso <cgabildso(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, "bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com Board" <bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com>, Steve Fowler <smf(a)pffwv.com>, Craig Slaughter <Craig.Slaughter(a)wvimb.org>, Greg Garrett <gagarrett(a)gmail.com>, John Francis <johncfrancis13(a)gmail.com> > Subject: Re: WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Re: agenda -- I was planning to discuss the "Bike Safety Bill" we introduced last year and to determine if we want to modify it in any way for the upcoming session. I think Frank's email that he just sent is a great place to start with our discussion. > We will also discuss if there are any additional pieces of legislation that we could pursue given our resources. > Things mentioned to date: uniform code on public trails regarding trespass (ATVs mostly); license plate special funding. Please let me know if I'm missing anything. > Thanks, kasey > > > From: Emmett Pepper [mailto:epepper@vt.edu] > Sent: Friday, November 15, 2013 9:42 AM > To: Frank Gmeindl > Cc: Kasey Russell; Don Spencer; Gary Zuckett; Rahul Gupta; Strawn, Dennis A; Patrick Donovan; Christiaan Abildso; bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com Board; Steve Fowler; Craig Slaughter; Greg Garrett; John Francis > Subject: Re: WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting > > Is there an agenda for this conference call/meeting? > > > On Fri, Nov 15, 2013 at 9:40 AM, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com> wrote: > Kasey, > > I would like to encourage WVCC to forget about a 3-foot passing rule and instead concentrate on repealing 17C-11-5 (a) which requires cyclists to ride as far to the right as practicable. > > 3-foot laws are not enforced and may not be enforceable. 3-feet is not enough when a 55 mph tractor trailer passes a 10 mph cyclist. (See attached Rutgers 3-foot final report.) > > Riding far to the right leads to > * Motorists passing bicyclists too closely; > * Motorists intruding into the adjacent lane when there is on-coming traffic; > * Right-turning vehicles crashing into cyclists at intersections and driveways; > * On-coming left-turning vehicles crashing into cyclists; > * Overtaking vehicles crashing into left-turning cyclists; > * Cyclists crashing because of objects, debris; pedestrians; animals and surface hazards that are more prevalent at the right edge of the roadway. > (See attached talking point paper.) > > Bicyclists that control the lane are almost always passed by the overtaking motorist making a full lane change, giving between 6 to 8 feet of passing clearance. If you have ridden this way, you know it is true. Why ask/plead/beg for 3 feet when predominant behavior secures more than twice that much passing margin and better passing behavior (lane changes instead of straddle and in-lane passes)? > > Three foot passing laws are a bad reaction to the consequences of riding too far right. If you want passing space, solve the problem by eliminating the FTR law instead of applying a patch or "fix" such as a three foot passing law that doesn't address or solve the root cause of close passing. > > We should also continue to pursue repeal of 17C-11-5 (c) which requires cyclists to use a side-path when available and not the roadway. > > > > > > > > Frank D. Gmeindl > LCI #1703 > 491 Wilson Avenue > Morgantown, WV 26501 > 304-376-0446 > Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles > > > On Nov 14, 2013, at 10:48 AM, Kasey Russell wrote: > > > Thanks everyone for your responses. We will meet at Steve Fowler's office at 901 Quarrier Street, Charleston on Monday, Nov. 18th at 10 am. > Steve, looks like there will only be a few in person but we will need a conference phone as a few will call in. > For those calling in please use our usual number: 641-715-3620; code is 877115#. > Kasey > > > > On Thu, Nov 14, 2013 at 8:20 AM, Kasey Russell <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com> wrote: > Hello WVCC Members -- We would like to have a Legislative Committee meeting on Monday, Nov. 18th at 10:00 a.m. Would you all be able to attend either in person or via conference call? We will be meeting in Steve Fowler's office in downtown Charleston and will have access to a conference phone. > Please let me know. I would expect our meeting to last 1 12/ hours. > Thanks, kasey > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Bikeboard mailing list > Bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com > http://wvcompletestreets.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard > > No virus found in this message. > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > Version: 2014.0.4158 / Virus Database: 3629/6846 - Release Date: 11/18/13 > No virus found in this message. > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > Version: 2014.0.4158 / Virus Database: 3629/6850 - Release Date: 11/19/13 > > > This e-mail and any attachments to it are confidential and are intended solely for use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender immediately and then delete it. If you are not the intended recipient, you must not keep, use, disclose, copy or distribute this e-mail without the author's prior permission. The views expressed in this e-mail message do not necessarily represent the views of Highmark, its diversified business, or affiliates.

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Re: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting
by Frank Gmeindl 19 Nov '13

19 Nov '13

Kasey, I would like to encourage WVCC to forget about a 3-foot passing rule and instead concentrate on repealing 17C-11-5 (a) which requires cyclists to ride as far to the right as practicable. 3-foot laws are not enforced and may not be enforceable. 3-feet is not enough when a 55 mph tractor trailer passes a 10 mph cyclist. (See attached Rutgers 3-foot final report.) Riding far to the right leads to * Motorists passing bicyclists too closely; * Motorists intruding into the adjacent lane when there is on-coming traffic; * Right-turning vehicles crashing into cyclists at intersections and driveways; * On-coming left-turning vehicles crashing into cyclists; * Overtaking vehicles crashing into left-turning cyclists; * Cyclists crashing because of objects, debris; pedestrians; animals and surface hazards that are more prevalent at the right edge of the roadway. (See attached talking point paper.) Bicyclists that control the lane are almost always passed by the overtaking motorist making a full lane change, giving between 6 to 8 feet of passing clearance. If you have ridden this way, you know it is true. Why ask/plead/beg for 3 feet when predominant behavior secures more than twice that much passing margin and better passing behavior (lane changes instead of straddle and in-lane passes)? Three foot passing laws are a bad reaction to the consequences of riding too far right. If you want passing space, solve the problem by eliminating the FTR law instead of applying a patch or "fix" such as a three foot passing law that doesn't address or solve the root cause of close passing. We should also continue to pursue repeal of 17C-11-5 (c) which requires cyclists to use a side-path when available and not the roadway. Frank D. Gmeindl LCI #1703 491 Wilson Avenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles On Nov 14, 2013, at 10:48 AM, Kasey Russell wrote: > Thanks everyone for your responses. We will meet at Steve Fowler's office at 901 Quarrier Street, Charleston on Monday, Nov. 18th at 10 am. > Steve, looks like there will only be a few in person but we will need a conference phone as a few will call in. > For those calling in please use our usual number: 641-715-3620; code is 877115#. > Kasey > > > > On Thu, Nov 14, 2013 at 8:20 AM, Kasey Russell <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com> wrote: > Hello WVCC Members -- We would like to have a Legislative Committee meeting on Monday, Nov. 18th at 10:00 a.m. Would you all be able to attend either in person or via conference call? We will be meeting in Steve Fowler's office in downtown Charleston and will have access to a conference phone. > Please let me know. I would expect our meeting to last 1 12/ hours. > Thanks, kasey >

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Re: [Bikeboard] Fwd: Questions
by Chip Wamsley 19 Nov '13

19 Nov '13

This message was originally HTML formatted. View in a HTML capable client to see the original version.\r\n\r\n Frank, I would be willing to help Devin with his project. Chip ---- Original Message ---- From: "BikeMorgantown" fgmeindl(a)gmail.com Sent: 11/16/2013 4:33:17 PM To: "bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com Board" bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com Subject: [Bikeboard] Fwd: Questions Anybody want to help Devin? Begin forwarded message: From: Devin Dye ddye2(a)mix.wvu.edu Date: November 16, 2013 3:20:07 PM EST To: bikemorgantown(a)gmail.com Subject: Questions Hello, I'm doing a little multimedia story on biking in Morgantown and I was just wanting to ask you all a couple questions. For one, I've heard that Morgantown has won an award recently because of the efforts the city is making to make it safer to ride bikes around town. If you could tell me more about that and anything else that is happening to make things safer for cyclist, that would be great. Would like to know any new information that you can tell me. Thanks, Devin

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Bicycling Solutions for Hilly Cities
by Frank Gmeindl 18 Nov '13

18 Nov '13

Thanks TO JING for finding and sharing the attached article. It is quite good. If all the Bicycle Board members, MPO members and Traffic Commission members read it, we could increase our understanding of cycling challenges and solution options for hilly areas such as Morgantown. What do you see in the article that we should add to the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan? Following are some section-by-section minor comments. Section heading: comments Prioritize connections and routes without hills: Seems to be a sales pitch for more separated facilities. The advantages are extolled but the dangers, particularly at crossings are ignored. Except for exchanging "tow away" space for bike lane, no other motor vehicle traffic compromises, e.g. reduced motor speeds are presented. Help people avoid hills: The SF Wiggle example is good. It stitched together routes that bicyclists were using and they signed it and provide maps of it. The Morgantown commuter map http://bikemorgantown.com/route_map.php was a start on that. I wonder if we could "crowd source" further development of the Morgantown commuter map. Build the right facilities for hills: This is good except they show bike lanes in the car door zone. The graphic should show a door zone buffer. The text recognizes this but the graphic doesn't. Again, the discussion ignores issues at crossings: how to avoid cyclists getting right hooked however this becomes less of an issue when cyclists are traveling at walking speeds, say up >6% grades but it still exists. Help people get up hills: Very good. Let's do it! Runnel discussion is excellent. It says since 2007 Seattle DOT includes runnels in their stairway standard. We should find their standard and see if we can adopt it in Morgantown. Hey, checkout the insert about the Oregon University 3,300 feet tram. Let's build a tram from Mountainlair to Law School! Not only would it be a real campus connector, it would be a touri$t attraction. And, hey, Bike Pgh "Celebrates Hills" . Some of us do, too:) Frank

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Fwd: Meeting w/ City Manager
by Derek Springston 18 Nov '13

18 Nov '13

BB Members, I am planning on communicating with City Manager, Jeff Mikorski on our Intent to Apply for TAP funding for the projects below. Any votes, thoughts, or recommendations for doing one of the following: 1. Piggybacking on Emily and Frank's 7 Resolution Items meeting to ask him about the City's blessing on matching funds and interest in applying for TAP Funds to minimize the meetings he has with the Bike Board. 2. Derek to meet with him very individually in a short meeting to ask him about the City's willingness to match and turn in grant application for the TAP funding. 3. Send him a short organized email below to avoid taking his time in a meeting and present the projects below and request funding. If we go this route I could give a preview of what I would send him for BB input or we could just take care of it in our TAP funding committee. I don't know him well, but I have been in communication and meetings with him a few times over the last few weeks through work, so I'm starting to build a relationship with him. He knows who I am now at least! Thanks, ~Derek ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Traci Knabenshue <Traci.Knabenshue(a)mail.wvu.edu> Date: Mon, Nov 11, 2013 at 10:28 AM Subject: RE: Meeting w/ City Manager To: Emily Vasile <emilyvasile(a)gmail.com>, Derek Springston < dspringston(a)gmail.com> Cc: Chip Wamsley <chipwamsley(a)gmail.com>, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, Chip Wamsley <chip(a)wamsleycycles.com> Hi All, The more I think about this, I wonder if our TAP/Intent to Apply list needs to be a meeting with Jeff at all. Do you think we could just email him the list, making sure that we’ve explained the projects as succinctly and specifically as possible? Damien mentioned after the BB meeting that the Mountain Line does not answer to the city as far as grant applications, so they can submit what they want. Here’s the list of projects as I understand them. 1) SLM and BMUFL markings on city and state arterials in the city as previously identified 2) Printing of bike commuter maps 3) Trail project in Marilla Park-to be submitted by Colin Dierman and Ryan Stocking in conjunction with BOPARC *Shared with Jeff as a courtesy:* 4) Covered bike parking at bus stops-to be submitted by David Bruffy/Mountain Line Thanks, Traci *From:* Emily Vasile [mailto:emilyvasile@gmail.com] *Sent:* Monday, November 11, 2013 10:03 AM *To:* Derek Springston *Cc:* Chip Wamsley; Frank Gmeindl; Traci Knabenshue; Chip Wamsley *Subject:* Re: Meeting w/ City Manager Hi Derek, Thanks for following up! Adding Frank since I think he and I were going to work together on following up with Jeff from the 10/29 COW meeting. In retrospect, it might be best for you all to meet with Jeff separately if you can and Frank and I can discuss the best way to follow up about the previous "list of seven." Since we have not seen any traction on our items, it might be best to start a fresh conversation with your list. Open to other suggestions. Emily On Mon, Nov 11, 2013 at 9:41 AM, Derek Springston <dspringston(a)gmail.com> wrote: Emily, You are taking the lead on meeting with Jeff Mikorski soon, right? As discussed at the last Bike Board meeting, I am planning on attending that meeting if at all possible to discuss our recommendations on the items in the Bicycle Plan that we would like to pair with writing TAP grant applications and hopefully obtain the city's blessing on matching funds and interest. 1st: Are you planning on emailing contacting him prior to the meeting to give him something to review? Don't want to flood him with details, but if you're planning on sending something, we might consider adding a simple list of projects interested in for future TAP funding. 2nd: Have we established a time for this meeting? Thanks, ~Derek -- *Let deeds, not words, be your adorning. -'Abdu'l-Baha* *“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells* -- *Let deeds, not words, be your adorning. -'Abdu'l-Baha* *“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells*

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Re: [Bikeboard] WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting
by Abildso, Christiaan 18 Nov '13

18 Nov '13

Check Oregon state law for a VUL Summary: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/hwy/bikeped/Pages/laws_regs.aspx Full details: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/BIKEPED/docs/STATUTES%20PERTAINING%20TO%20PE… (search for "vulnerable") ----------------- HB 3314---Careless Driving Penalties HB 3314 enhances the penalties associated with careless driving when the person convicted of this offense also contributed to the serious physical injury or death of a "vulnerable user of the public way." Under the bill, a "vulnerable user" includes a pedestrian, a highway worker, a person riding an animal, the operator or user of a farm tractor, a skateboard, roller skates, in-line skates, a scooter, or a bicycle. HB 3314 requires a court to sentence a person convicted of this offense to complete a traffic safety course, perform 100 to 200 hours of community service, pay a fine of up to $12,500, and suspension of driving privileges for one year. Payment of the fine and suspension of driving privileges may be waived by the court upon completion of the traffic safety course and community service. This bill resulted in the creation of ORS 801.608 and modifications to ORS 811.135. ORS 801.608 defines a "vulnerable user" and ORS 811.135 describes additional penalties for careless driving when vulnerable users are affected. -Christiaan From: Emmett Pepper [mailto:epepper@vt.edu] Sent: Monday, November 18, 2013 1:47 PM To: Steve Fowler Cc: Frank Gmeindl; Kasey Russell; Don Spencer; Gary Zuckett; Rahul Gupta; Strawn, Dennis A; Patrick Donovan; Abildso, Christiaan; bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com Board; Craig Slaughter; Greg Garrett; John Francis Subject: Re: WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting The Vulnerable User concept seems very attractive to me due to how common sense it is and how it touches on a lot of different constituencies. Do we have draft language for a statute? Would it make sense to use this one from Austin as a starting point for discussion, or is there another one we like better? http://austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Public_Works/Vulnerable_Ro… You'll notice this sample incorporates 3 feet as part of an overall scheme, but it could also be easily adapted to include a lane change, when possible. It does not, so far as I can tell, have anything that requires cyclists to treat pedestrians with special care, though, which for some reason I was thinking it would do. It includes horses and buggies (along with motorcycles, etc.), so we could probably get the support of the powerful Amish lobby! This makes me wonder if ATVs should be included in the definition of "vulnerable user." -Emmett P.S. Thanks for being so welcoming and open to the new guy's suggestions and input. As a (nearly) daily bike commuter, I'm looking forward to being as involved as possible with this group. On Mon, Nov 18, 2013 at 9:26 AM, Steve Fowler <SMF(a)pffwv.com<mailto:SMF@pffwv.com>> wrote: I would propose the following; 1. Do we focus on the passage of the "three foot rule" or attempt to clean up all the problem statutes? 2. Current law for passing a bike requires an audible signal, and then passing and returning to the lane of travel only when "safe". Almost no one follows this law when passing a bicycle. An easy to understand "three foot rule" would be much better. Problem statutes/ a/ 17C-11-5(a) "as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable" Fix - Colorado law "far enough to the right as judged safe by the bicyclist to facilitate the movement of overtaking vehicles" b/ 17C-11-5(c) Have to use a bike path Fix - repeal c/ 17C-11-7(b) have to use a bell Fix - repeal. From: Emmett Pepper [mailto:epepper@vt.edu<mailto:epepper@vt.edu>] Sent: Friday, November 15, 2013 9:42 AM To: Frank Gmeindl Cc: Kasey Russell; Don Spencer; Gary Zuckett; Rahul Gupta; Strawn, Dennis A; Patrick Donovan; Christiaan Abildso; bikeboard(a)bikemorgantown.com<mailto:bikeboard@bikemorgantown.com> Board; Steve Fowler; Craig Slaughter; Greg Garrett; John Francis Subject: Re: WVCC Legislative Committee Meeting Is there an agenda for this conference call/meeting? On Fri, Nov 15, 2013 at 9:40 AM, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com<mailto:fgmeindl@gmail.com>> wrote: Kasey, I would like to encourage WVCC to forget about a 3-foot passing rule and instead concentrate on repealing 17C-11-5 (a) which requires cyclists to ride as far to the right as practicable. 3-foot laws are not enforced and may not be enforceable. 3-feet is not enough when a 55 mph tractor trailer passes a 10 mph cyclist. (See attached Rutgers 3-foot final report.) Riding far to the right leads to * Motorists passing bicyclists too closely; * Motorists intruding into the adjacent lane when there is on-coming traffic; * Right-turning vehicles crashing into cyclists at intersections and driveways; * On-coming left-turning vehicles crashing into cyclists; * Overtaking vehicles crashing into left-turning cyclists; * Cyclists crashing because of objects, debris; pedestrians; animals and surface hazards that are more prevalent at the right edge of the roadway. (See attached talking point paper.) Bicyclists that control the lane are almost always passed by the overtaking motorist making a full lane change, giving between 6 to 8 feet of passing clearance. If you have ridden this way, you know it is true. Why ask/plead/beg for 3 feet when predominant behavior secures more than twice that much passing margin and better passing behavior (lane changes instead of straddle and in-lane passes)? Three foot passing laws are a bad reaction to the consequences of riding too far right. If you want passing space, solve the problem by eliminating the FTR law instead of applying a patch or "fix" such as a three foot passing law that doesn't address or solve the root cause of close passing. We should also continue to pursue repeal of 17C-11-5 (c) which requires cyclists to use a side-path when available and not the roadway. Frank D. Gmeindl LCI #1703 491 Wilson Avenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446<tel:304-376-0446> Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles On Nov 14, 2013, at 10:48 AM, Kasey Russell wrote: Thanks everyone for your responses. We will meet at Steve Fowler's office at 901 Quarrier Street, Charleston on Monday, Nov. 18th at 10 am. Steve, looks like there will only be a few in person but we will need a conference phone as a few will call in. For those calling in please use our usual number: 641-715-3620<tel:641-715-3620>; code is 877115#. Kasey On Thu, Nov 14, 2013 at 8:20 AM, Kasey Russell <russell.kasey(a)gmail.com<mailto:russell.kasey@gmail.com>> wrote: Hello WVCC Members -- We would like to have a Legislative Committee meeting on Monday, Nov. 18th at 10:00 a.m. Would you all be able to attend either in person or via conference call? We will be meeting in Steve Fowler's office in downtown Charleston and will have access to a conference phone. Please let me know. I would expect our meeting to last 1 12/ hours. Thanks, kasey

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Fwd: Questions
by BikeMorgantown 16 Nov '13

16 Nov '13

Anybody want to help Devin? Begin forwarded message: > From: Devin Dye <ddye2(a)mix.wvu.edu> > Date: November 16, 2013 3:20:07 PM EST > To: bikemorgantown(a)gmail.com > Subject: Questions > > Hello, > > I'm doing a little multimedia story on biking in Morgantown and I was just wanting to ask you all a couple questions. For one, I've heard that Morgantown has won an award recently because of the efforts the city is making to make it safer to ride bikes around town. If you could tell me more about that and anything else that is happening to make things safer for cyclist, that would be great. Would like to know any new information that you can tell me. > > Thanks, > > Devin

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Stewart / Stewartstown striping
by Frank Gmeindl 15 Nov '13

15 Nov '13

Damien, Bryan, Fouad, What's the chances of striping the repaved Stewart St. and Stewartstown Rd. so the climbing side is wider than the descending side? This could give cars more room to pass cyclists. I saw in this morning's Dominion Post that WVDOH is repaving these roads now. Thanks for your consideration! Frank D. Gmeindl LCI #1703 491 Wilson Avenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Fwd: November Traffic Commission Meeting
by Frank Gmeindl 14 Nov '13

14 Nov '13

Please find attached, a BB monthly report to the TC that I will present Wednesday with your concurrence. I might have overlooked something from our meeting last Thursday or anything else we did in the past month. Frank Begin forwarded message: > From: Damien Davis <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > Date: November 11, 2013 3:10:07 PM EST > To: Robert Jones <rjoneswvu(a)gmail.com>, micynster(a)gmail.com, cgabildso(a)hsc.wvu.edu, david mckain <david.mckain(a)gmail.com>, Frank Gmeindl <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net>, lisa k mardis <lisa.k.mardis(a)gmail.com>, normawyant(a)comcast.net, Susan Sullivan <ssullivan(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Bethany Sypolt <bsypolt(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Linda Little <llittle(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, William Wyant <wwyant(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, mmccabe(a)cityofmorgantown.org, Jeff Mikorski <jmikorski(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, christophergluck(a)gmail.com, psteel(a)access.k12.wv.us, Barbara Shellito <bshellito(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Roy Nutter <rnutter(a)wvu.edu> > Subject: Re: November Traffic Commission Meeting > Reply-To: ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org > > Sorry, agenda is now attached. > > J. Damien Davis, PE, CFM > Assistant City Engineer > City of Morgantown > Public Works Department - Engineering Division > 389 Spruce Street > Morgantown, WV 26505 > Office: 304.284.7398 > Fax: 304.284.7409 > www.MorgantownWV.gov > > From: "Damien Davis" <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > To: "Robert Jones" <rjoneswvu(a)gmail.com>, micynster(a)gmail.com, cgabildso(a)hsc.wvu.edu, "david mckain" <david.mckain(a)gmail.com>, "Frank Gmeindl" <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net>, "lisa k mardis" <lisa.k.mardis(a)gmail.com>,normawyant(a)comcast.net, "Susan Sullivan" <ssullivan(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, "Bethany Sypolt" <bsypolt(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, "Linda Little" <llittle(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, "William Wyant" <wwyant(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, mmccabe(a)cityofmorgantown.org, "Jeff Mikorski" <jmikorski(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, christophergluck(a)gmail.com, psteel(a)access.k12.wv.us, "Barbara Shellito" <bshellito(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, "Roy Nutter" <rnutter(a)wvu.edu> > Sent: Monday, November 11, 2013 2:49:56 PM > Subject: November Traffic Commission Meeting > > All, > > Attached is the agenda for this month's meeting. If you have any questions please feel free to give me a call. Thanks. > > J. Damien Davis, PE, CFM > Assistant City Engineer > City of Morgantown > Public Works Department - Engineering Division > 389 Spruce Street > Morgantown, WV 26505 > Office: 304.284.7398 > Fax: 304.284.7409 > www.MorgantownWV.gov > >

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Bikeboard November 2013