Although many more people are cycling in Atlanta and in different Georgia
communities and the bicycle is gaining popularity for commuters, there
are still not enough streets that accommodate bicyclists safely.
If a street is too isolated by highways to connect bikers and walkers
from their neighborhoods to activity centers, then how is a cyclist going
to feel safe cycling, or a pedestrian feel safe walking?
Many community leaders and cycling advocates—including Georgia Bikes,
the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition and other groups—are asking for safer
streets. The new “complete streets” policy is being introduced
to ensure that engineers, transportation planners, and roadway designers
keep cyclists in mind when developing traffic proposals.
The cities and counties of Clarkston, Decatur, Dunwoody, and Roswell have
“complete streets” measures in place already, and a DeKalb
coalition is working toward adopting this policy. Additionally, the city
of Atlanta is in the process of drafting a measure like this in order
to help keep cyclist safe and reduce
bicycle accidents in Atlanta.
Raising Awareness for Safer Streets – Accommodating Cyclists
On March 27, 2012, the seventh annual Georgia Rides to the Capitol event
occurred to raise support for the development of bicycle lanes, multi-use-trails
and cycling connections to activity centers and schools.
This annual event raises community awareness of bike safety in Metro Atlanta
and support for the much-needed bicycle network for on-road facilities
throughout Georgia. Thousands of cyclists come out to cycle in the streets
getting escorted by police into downtown.
Kalka & Baer is glad to see advocates and supporters raising awareness
for bicycle safety and bike friendly streets.
