In August 2008, reporter Adam McFadden wrote in an article about the Cedar River Trail in Renton, WA: “After exploring much of the Cedar River Trail, I came away with one impression: The trail is a great place to bike, take a stroll or just wander.” In April 2010, a local Renton resident, 83, died after being hit by a bike rider on the same trail. The collision between the Renton woman and the bicycle not only makes a subtle mockery of McFadden’s words, it has led to a campaign by the city of Renton to enhance trail safety. This August, Renton lowered the bike speed limit on the trail, and added a bright yellow centerline stripe to it, both in the hopes of making the trail a safer place for people to walk, bike, and “wander,” if they so choose. The city has also set up regular path patrols by police, who, according to the Renton Reporter, “have contacted more than 500 trail patrons and provided information on trail etiquette and safety. They have also noted 15 helmet violations, 31 speeding violations, 19 dismount violations” since June.
From the article:
The new lanes are making a difference and bikes are going slower,” said Renton Police Cadet Travis Gnehm. “At least three citizens have come up to me and expressed their appreciation and have mentioned that that our police-presence on the trail was a great help.” The city also plans to provide flyers and information on trail etiquette at kiosks and dispensers along the Cedar River Trail, post additional signage to promote trail etiquette, and work with local bicycling organizations to inform their members about the new rules and encourage trail safety.
[Via: Renton Reporter]
[Photo Via: Biking Bis]
