Hello Cycling Group- In case you missed it, late last year the speed limit on the Trace was lowered from 20 mph to 15 mph. There wasnt much public notice about the change on or off the Trace. It seemed to happen very suddenly with no ability for anyone who may oppose the lowering of the speed limit to voice their opinions and/or opposition. Because there was no such opportunity, a few fellow cyclists have arranged a meeting with Council member Steve Stefancik, the only member of the council to oppose the change, to discuss what we can do as a community to revert the speed limit back to 20 mph. The meeting is Friday, January 30th at 2 pm at The Scotts Coffee Bar in Old Mandeville. The address is 201 Carroll Street at Claiborne. There is a lot to be discussed on this topic. However, the bottom line is if the speed limit was enough of an issue to change on the Trace, then it is to be expected that it will at some point be enforced forcing cyclists off the Trace and onto the road to train. We, as cyclists, know that the off-Trace roads are not the safest place to train and that there is a majority motorist population that does not respect cyclists and completely ignores the 3 foot rule. Because the action of lowering the speed limit appears to be directed at cyclists, although it is stated the reason was due to increased traffic, the Parish Government should be held accountable. It is not unreasonable to expect alternatives such as installing bike lanes on public roads and an aggressive public awareness campaign on the 3 foot rule to insure our safety on the roads as a product of the speed limit change. Or would it have been simpler to adjust the speed limit to 15 mph at more densely populated areas of the Trace, such as Koop Drive, Mandeville and Slidell Trailheads, where families gather to begin and end their Trace outings? I am attaching a paper written by a fellow cyclist with details regarding the change and some research on multi-use trails for your information. This may not seem like a big deal now because there are those of us who dont get out in the colder months and arent riding outside. But come warmer riding/training weather, this issue will likely come to the forefront, especially with those training for upcoming events. This is an open invitation to everyone to attend. If you have an interest in attending, please reply via email to this message confirming so we can be sure we have adequate meeting space. If you are unable or prefer not to attend but have input on this issue, also reply via email and I will forward it on. Thanks all! Margot mba951@yahoo
Posted on: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 21:26:35 +0000
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