ENVIRONMENT: Biking’s benefits realistically

ENVIRONMENT: Biking’s benefits realistically

http://www.rochestercitynewspaper.com/news/letters/2010/02/ENVIRONMENT-B...
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In response to the comment from "Realist" (The Mail, January 13): "Realism" is a term with many meanings, but perhaps its most applicable synonym in the realm of public policy would be "pragmatism." A pragmatic approach to improving cycling in a city like Rochester would include a collaborative effort between non-profit entities, residents, cycling shops and clubs, city government, and state legislators to consolidate funds for relatively low-cost solutions like painting bike lanes on arterial routes and installing bicycle racks at public meeting places.

For example, a bike lane along Monroe Avenue stretching from Cobb's Hill to downtown (or even more optimistically, from Pittsford), would have positive impacts on the businesses lining the route and on the quality of life of people living in or visiting that area. Arguably, this comparatively low-cost proposal would have more significant positive impacts on the economy than a money-pit boondoggle like Renaissance Square.

The economic impacts of improved cycling infrastructure go far beyond in an increase in local commerce during a particular event (a bike race, for example). Improvements in overall health, quality of life, downtown accessibility, and sense of pride in the urban core would have measurable, long-lasting impacts on the local and regional economy. The improvements in health alone deserve serious consideration by our local and national politicians if they hope to "bend the health-care curve." Exercise should be an integral part of our daily lifestyle in the city, not something we should have to take indoors or drive out of the city to enjoy.

If you'd like to have a frank discussion about the "irresponsible bike riders in our area," as you state, I'm all for it. I've seen quite a few people riding against traffic, at night, without lights. Many of these people are not fully educated in proper bicycle safety, and engage in dangerous cycling practice out of fear - fear of motorists. This could be mitigated by a rigorous public-safety campaign regarding vehicular-traffic laws, which already exists in most states (including New York), and an improved cycling infrastructure that creates safe, efficient commuter and recreational routes. We currently enjoy the groundwork for a strong recreational infrastructure, one that could no doubt be improved, but we lack any sort of institutionalized commuter cycling infrastructure.

The belief that cyclists do not deserve the right to share our publicly funded roads and highways because some of them break laws is curious. In fact, the most egregious, numerous, and dangerous law-breakers I see on our local roads are other motorists.

As a final note, and to contribute to the increased education of cyclists, here's a link to the applicable New York State laws concerning bicycle traffic on public roadways. I suggest that cyclists and motorists alike brush up.

And the next time you find yourself inconvenienced, annoyed, or otherwise burdened by a cyclist during your daily commute, consider that the small amount of patience it takes to grant that person some leeway (both literally and figuratively) is insignificant compared to the amount of time you'll spend sitting at red lights, filling your gas tank, or finding a parking space.

ERIK REINERT, ROCHESTER