Bicyclists make inroads in L.A.
Re “She’s L.A.’s pedal pusher,” Jan. 2
I don’t believe it. An article about bicycle commuting when there’s no bus strike. It’s not even bike-to-work day. Things must be improving for bicyclists in Los Angeles. I wish Monica Howe success in her endeavors to raise awareness and improve the environment for bicycle commuters.
Over the last 35 years, I have ridden 200,000 miles commuting by bicycle in the Los Angeles area. During that time, the only improvements have been bike lanes on some streets and the little green “bike route” signs that don’t mean much. With the exception of the recently built L.A. River path, the bike paths that were built were primarily recreational paths that didn’t go anywhere.
I would suggest that when a major street is repaved, it should be re-striped to allow more room or that any striping plans should be reviewed by the bicycle advisory committee. I hope that in her new position, Howe will be able to turn things around.
JIM BLAKE
Lake View Terrace
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Howe needs to dedicate some time to educate bicyclists about the fact that, like automobile drivers, bicyclists are supposed to follow the rules of the road.
I regularly encounter bicyclists as I drive through residential areas, and I’ve lost count of those I’ve seen who completely ignore traffic signs, have no lights or reflectors when riding at night, ride against traffic or fail to use hand signals.
I have absolutely no problem sharing the road with anyone who chooses to bicycle, whether the reason is to exercise, benefit the environment or just have fun. But I think it’s only fair to ask these people to be responsible enough to learn, and follow, the rules of the road just as auto drivers are required to do.
FARA PHILLIPS
Los Angeles
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I, like hundreds, maybe even millions, of people would love to ride a bike all over Los Angeles, but it is never going to happen if my only choice is to ride on the street with car traffic. Having occasional bike lanes is of no help.
Los Angeles is full of empty sidewalks. Why can’t we dedicate part of the sidewalks to bicycles the way so many European cities do?
REBECCA ALLEN
Los Angeles