Hey guys, Here is a letter that my friend Eric sent to the DOT Commissioner. See what you think. ~Derek
“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells
From: moxiemeister@hotmail.com To: dot.commissioner@wv.gov CC: guitardeek@hotmail.com Subject: Route 705, Morgantown Date: Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:00:44 -0400
Mr. Mattox,
I would like to voice my concern and displeasure at some of the new features of the recent renovations to Route 705 in Morgantown. I was appreciative of the efficiency with which these changes took place and even pleased to see that there was adequate space on the newly paved shoulders outside of vehicular lanes to allow bicycle traffic.
However, when the guard rails were placed, they were placed through the pavement of these shoulders, effectively eliminating them as viable lanes for bicycles. They could have been easily placed outside of the paved areas, but weren't.
I have been an avid bicycle commuter and have been using this road for the last twelve years as my route to work. The recent renovations have eliminated large stretches of the formerly generous paved shoulders, which had allowed me to ride without impeding vehicular traffic. I am now forced to occupy a full lane. Although I realize that it is my privilege under the law to do so, I would rather defer to the convenience of motorists and not have to delay them.
Unfortunately, there are no viable alternative routes for cyclists to use in lieu of Rt. 705. There is, however, a low cost fix to this problem.
The inbound lane features a full with breakdown lane. If the lines were repainted to shift all lanes and split this available space with the shoulder of the outbound lanes, there would be sufficient space to permit cyclists to safely ride outside of the regular lanes for vehicular traffic. Might I also suggest some signage to represent the use of this road by cyclists.
Sincerely,
Eric Henrickson
1142 Berwood Dr.
Morgantown, WV 26505
304-296-4055
cc: Derek Springston, Morgantown Bicycle Board
Moxie for the Masses
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