New bike racks in place
Published 9:22 pm Monday, September 1, 2014
Troy is continuing its effort to become more bicycle friendly with the recent installation of “share the road” signs and bike racks around the city.
Instillation of the signs was completed during the first week of August. More than 80 signs dot streets around the city. Signs are on streets included in the city’s bike route map, which include Park Street, Elm Street, George Wallace Drive and Franklin Drive.
The signs are part of an effort that started in June when the city council approved an ordinance on bicycle safety highlighting share the road policies. The ordinance includes rules for passing bicyclists, safe speeds and other regulations.
Troy resident and active bicycler Mark Kelly said cars give him a wider berth when he rides his bike, compared to before the signs and ordinance were in place.
“The signs seem to be on every street corner. I noticed people would give me more space,” Kelly said. “Usually people would give me about three feet of space. I noticed when people gave me four to five more feet.”
Bike racks were installed on the downtown square and at city hall last week. Bike racks were already in place at the Troy Public Library and the Troy Recreation Center.
Kelly said he thinks the bike racks will help raise awareness of biking as an option to get around.
“When you see those things, you think, ‘I should have brought my bike down here.’ ” Kelly said. “When people see bike racks, maybe they’ll think ‘hey, I can take my bike downtown.’”
Planning and Zoning administrator Melissa Sanders said response to bike efforts has been positive.
“Several have stated that this is a step in the right direction,” Sanders said.
“Bicycle projects and programs inspire the use of alternative means of transportation which support active transportation, healthy lifestyles, and a healthy environment. Bicycle transportation also provides mobility to individuals who may not own or operate motor vehicles.”
Kelly said he hopes more Troy residents will dust off their bicycles because of the city’s efforts.
“If I could see full bike racks, it would please me to no end,” Kelly said.