My wife and I attended the city council meeting on August 18, 2015 and were surprised and amazed at the opposition to the “bike path study.” As I listened, what particularly amazed me was that statements and arguments were being set forth based on a lack of any facts, reasons, or evidence which could be used to make a logical decision regarding just a “bike path study.”
Having been trained in research and having had professional experience in large organizations related to finding, interpreting and using empirical information to make decisions, I tried to analyze what was said at the meeting, but found arguments presented there to be based on emotions, feelings and likes and dislikes. Then, I did a little research to see what citizens were saying in the Eagle Journal, Facebook and the Web sites. Again, I found a lack of empirical evidence supporting a recommendation that the bike path study should not be conducted.
Coincidentally, my wife and I walked to the Del on Beach Boulevard about 5PM on Saturday (August 22, 2015). I was reminded once again how difficult it is to make that walk. Because of boulders on one side and parked cars on the other, it was almost impossible to dodge the pedal cars and bikes.
My wife and I also ride our bikes on Beach Boulevard (in the street as we should) and find that to be a little dangerous. The doors of a parked car can suddenly open just as we approach and there is little room to move over on the narrow street with all of the large vehicles moving by very quickly. It certainly makes the trip a little breath taking but we take the risk because we do love riding by the beach just as much as we love riding on the other side by the Bay and down the Strand.
This sounds as if I am building a case for the need for a separate bike path based on the experiences two people. While I do believe that a bike path would enhance the safety and biking and walking experiences for at least my wife and me, I really think that conducting the “bike path study” is the best and only procedure at this point in time. We can use the results of the study to make a much more informed decision about whether or not to proceed with the construction of a beach bike path.
