September 2009 - Bikeboard - lists.cheatlakeclear.org

MapFest next Tuesday
by Frank Gmeindl 05 Nov '09

05 Nov '09

Bicycle Board Members, Next Tuesday, October 6, 6-9 pm we will review the first draft comprehensive Morgantown Bicycle Route map and try to complete it so we can produce it and distribute it at the Oct. 19 grand opening of the Mountaineer Station. We will meet in the Training Room in the Public Safety Center. Please come and contribute to perfecting the map. Or, just to give thanks to Derek for all the tremendous work that he's done pulling this together. Frank

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[Fwd: WVU football game next Thurs night]
by Frank Gmeindl 29 Sep '09

29 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, Of the 9 members that responded to my message below, 5 said they wouldn't come to this Thursday's Bicycle Board meeting and 4 said they would come. Since more than half of the respondents said they wouldn't come and 7 members didn't reply to the message below, it appears we wouldn't have a quorum. Therefore, I am canceling the meeting. Attached are the minutes from our September meeting. Thanks to Hugh Kierig for recording them. *Good News* We have had some good news since the last meeting: *Mon Blvd Bike Lane and Share the Road Signs *Damien Davis, Assistant City Engineer did a wonderful job creating a presentation package of the Bike Lane including superb drawings. He delivered the presentation to the MPO TAC which included 3 members of the WVDOT. Damien, David Bruffy, Bill Austin (new MPO Director) and Terry Hough all spoke very strongly positively for the bike lane. Both Damien and David emphasized that cyclists have a right to ride on Mon Blvd whether or not there is a bike lane. The DOT resisted the bike lane saying that since MUB's closing the rail trail, MUB should put in the bike lane. Terry Hough clearly stated to the DOT that the idea of a bike lane on Mon Blvd has been discussed with DOT for 15 years; it was actually approved at one time but got tangled up in consideration for pedestrians and the state money got spent on the sidewalks on Patteson Drive instead. The DOT agreed to evaluate Damien's package and notify the City if it satisfies technical standards. After the MPO meeting, Terry Hough asked me if the Bicycle Board would agree with applying to the bike lane and Share the Road signs $13K of the $35K that was budgeted for Shared Lane Markings. I responded that we would probably be OK with the City's borrowing $13K for the bike lane and then restoring it when we have an approved SLM plan. My conclusion is that the bike lane satisfies technical standards and the City's committed to do the bike lane and Share the Road signs whether the State pays for them or not. *Downtown Parking* Thanks to the persistent efforts and negotiation skills of Chip Wamsley and the Parking Committee, today we received a letter (attached) from the Mainstreet Morgantown Board of Directors approving the Mainstreet Morgantown Design Committee's recommendation "that bike racks be located in offsets and setbacks that do not interfere with pedestrian traffic. This recommendation has three goals: 1. Provide a safe, secure and convenient place for bicycles to be parked. 2. Do not interfere with pedestrian traffic. 3. Do not take up motor vehicle parking spaces. The Design Committee asks that the Bicycle Board to present to the Design Committee locations that support these goals." A couple weeks ago, I received from Terry Hough detailed drawings showing bicycle parking locations that for the most part are exactly what we recommended to the Design Committee months ago. If the Design Committee agrees that the City Engineer's drawings satisfy their goals, the next step will be for the Public Works Dept. to purchase and install the racks. The funds for them have already been budgeted. See you in November. Go Mountaineers. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/ -------- Original Message -------- Subject: WVU football game next Thurs night Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:32:59 -0400 From: Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)verizon.net> To: Bicycle Board <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> Bicycle Board Members, Will next Thursday's 7:30 pm WVU home football game affect your attendance at the Bicycle Board meeting? Frank

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Bike Route Classification
by Frank Gmeindl 28 Sep '09

28 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, The Federal Highway Administration has a course on Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning: http://www.tfhrc.gov/safety/pedbike/pubs/05085/chapt4.htm that suggests considering the following when classifying bike routes. * Accessibility: This is measured by the distance a bicycle facility is from a specified trip origin or destination, the ease by which this distance can be traveled by bicycle, and the extent to which all likely origins and destinations are served. Some communities (e.g., Arlington, VA) have adopted a criterion of having a bicycle facility within 1.61 kilometer (km) (1 mile (mi)) of every residence. More importantly, no residential area or high-priority destination (school, shopping center, business center, or park) should be denied reasonable access by bicycle. * Directness: Studies have shown that most bicyclists will not use even the best bicycle facility if it greatly increases the travel distance or trip time over that provided by less desirable alternatives. Therefore, routes should still be reasonably direct. The ratio of directness to comfort/perceived safety involved in this trade-off will vary depending on the characteristics of the bicycle facility (how desirable is it?), its more direct alternatives (how unpleasant are they?), and the typical user's needs (in a hurry? is it a business or pleasure trip?). * Continuity: The proposed network should have as few missing links as possible. If gaps exist, they should not include traffic environments that are unpleasant or threatening to group B/C (basic and child) riders, such as high-volume or high-speed motor vehicle traffic with narrow outside lanes. * Route attractiveness: This can encompass such factors as separation from motor traffic, visual aesthetics, and the real or perceived threat to personal safety along the facility. * Low conflict: The route should present few conflicts between bicyclists and motor vehicle operators. * Cost: This would include the costs both to establish and to maintain the system. * Ease of implementation: The ease or difficulty in implementing proposed changes depends on available space and existing traffic operations and patterns. In another section of the course, they recommend using a "Level of Service" (LOS) model similar to LOS models used for decades for motor transportation. They provide an equation that gives a LOS numerical score and A thru F rating for each street depending on inputs including traffic volume, speed, percentage of heavy vehicles, pavement surface condition and outside lane width. Those of us who are geeky enough to enjoy such a thing might be able to get a Transportation Enhancement Program grant for a 3 phase project. In phase 1, we would use the FHWA method to determine bicycle LOS for Morgantown streets. In phase 2, we could use LOS and its components to define a bicycle route improvement plan that would constitute the proposal for phase 3, implementing the high priority improvements. Anybody want to work on this? The Intent to Apply forms for the 2010 TEP cycle are due November 15. 2 months away. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Re: [Bikeboard] WVU football game next Thurs night
by Derek Springston 28 Sep '09

28 Sep '09

Frank, It may be a little late now, but including you and I, other folks who contributed to the mapping were: Jacob Brown Alice Vernon Jonathan Rosenbaum Betsy Shogren?? (one map isn't labelled with a name; might be Jonathan's or Betsy's) I think this covers all who gave me maps. Did anyone else contribute a map? ~Derek “Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells Date: Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:26:20 -0400 From: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net To: guitardeek(a)hotmail.com Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] WVU football game next Thurs night Derek, Based on my past experience, rescheduling the BB meeting to earlier won't work. First, there's the issue of finding a location. Then, I would expect that members' schedules may be more full earlier than later. I'm afraid we won't have an October meeting if I try to reschedule it. If I had a grandfather, or even a father, I'd choose to spend time with him rather than attend the BB meeting so totally I understand if you choose not to come. However, I think we must press forward with the map. Who gave you input? Below is a list of those who said they'd be there. If these are the people that gave you input, I'd prefer to proceed. Attend? 1. Donald Dickerson, Vice Chairman n 2. Paul Becker 3. Hugh Kierig n 4. Jacob Brown y 5. Elizabeth Shogren, Secretary y 6. Gunnar Shogren y 7. Frank Gmeindl, Chairman y 8. Marilyn Newcome 9. Jonathan Rosenbaum 10. Don Spencer 11. Chet Parsons 12. Jim Rye 13. Derek Springston n 14. Chip Wamsley 15. Alice Vernon y 16. Janel Bedard y 5 n 3 I would be happy to play your role as much as I am capable. Or, if someone else that will be in attendance would be better at that, please ask them if they'd stand in for you. What can you give us to work with for Thursday? Frank On 9/24/2009 5:03 PM, Derek Springston wrote: Frank et al, I was hoping to go to the game to spend a little time with my grandfather but didn't realize they were on the same evening. Think we could re-schedule the Bike Board meeting to Tuesday or Wednesday? I'd don't want to suggest scheduling it later! Let me know... ~Derek “Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells > Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:32:59 -0400 > From: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net > To: bikeboard(a)cheat.org > Subject: [Bikeboard] WVU football game next Thurs night > > Bicycle Board Members, > > Will next Thursday's 7:30 pm WVU home football game affect your > attendance at the Bicycle Board meeting? > > Frank > > > _______________________________________________ > Bikeboard mailing list > Bikeboard(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard Microsoft brings you a new way to search the web. Try Bing™ now _________________________________________________________________ Bing™ brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now. http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT…

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Re: [Bikeboard] Parade magazine article, Bike Friendly Cities
by director 28 Sep '09

28 Sep '09

Jenny, Thanks for the feedback on the Maine event. I just came back from a membership development conference in San Francisco, where bikes outnumber cars (nearly). In the conference we were getting support from mfgrs and local government. It felt good, and it seemed right. I love it when that happens. Please don't get me wrong on the subject of bike lanes. Here's my recommendation: Ride your bike in the traffic lane when conditions permit, move to the right and let traffic pass when you are going substantially slower AND it is safe to do so. Make curb lanes wide enough and eliminate obstructions SO it is safe to do so. Just leave out the paint strip and "Bike Lane" declaration. It confuses people. Every public road is ALREADY a bike lane, no need to declare one. ---------- Original Message ---------------------------------- From: Jennifer Selin <jselin(a)hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:19:00 -0400 > >To Nick and all: > >I know that bike lanes are dangerous, I have seen the "car turn-in to the bike rider" myself. However, if you really want more riders in Morgantown, we need a variety of ways that people can ride. This does not deny the bicycle its just use of the road, at least in my mind. I think we want to bring people along to the idea of bicycling one step at a time.... > >Separate trails along natural corridors such as the river or highways (many places have a separated trail many yards from the road to get to the local Mall or the next town) are a big boost to those riders who are not yet as adventuresome on the road with cars. These riders, sometimes this applies to me, over time may become more adventuresome on the road, particularly as car drivers get used to sharing the road. > >Also the connections between neighborhoods, trails, and roads require careful navigation and the more timid riders become used to dealing with traffic when in these transition zones. Many people will enjoy the bike routes you are developing because they may not yet be thinking of the best way to use the roads to get somewhere by bicycle. > >The more careful (wider) spacing of lanes, even the shoulders-that-are-paved-and-should-not-be-used-by-vehicles-such-as-bikes, give cars and bikes more room to work with speed differentials. There are ways to make it easier to bike by road design as you all have mentioned. Sometimes it is by slowing all traffic or limiting the access or turning options of car traffic. > >I just attended the Common Ground festival in Unity Maine where they had a huge bike parking area and encouraged people to bicycle in from the nearby town. Each rider was greeted at an bike-tire framed arch by a small cheering committee. They also had a train commute option to enter the grounds. > >Jenny > > >Jenny Selin >1224 Fairlawns >Morgantown, WV 26505 >USA > >Phone:(304-598-9650) >jselin(a)hotmail.com > > > >> Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:49:18 -0400 >> From: director(a)positivespin.org >> To: bikeboard(a)cheat.org >> Subject: [Bikeboard] Parade magazine article, Bike Friendly Cities >> >> Good morning, >> This article was in Today's Parade magazine today. Good stuff, except for over-selling bike lanes and separated paths (IMHO). I'm going to take it to our mayor. >> >> http://www.parade.com/news/2009/09/27-a-free-wheeling-city.html >> >> Have a good riding day (splish, splash) >> Nick >> >> -- >> Nick Hein LCI# 1705 >> Director, Positive Spin >> 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L >> Morgantown, WV >> ph 304-276-0213 >> -- >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Bikeboard mailing list >> Bikeboard(a)cheat.org >> http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard > >_________________________________________________________________ >Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail®. >http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutor… > -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Parade magazine article, Bike Friendly Cities
by director 28 Sep '09

28 Sep '09

Good morning, This article was in Today's Parade magazine today. Good stuff, except for over-selling bike lanes and separated paths (IMHO). I'm going to take it to our mayor. http://www.parade.com/news/2009/09/27-a-free-wheeling-city.html Have a good riding day (splish, splash) Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Re: [Bikeboard] [Fwd: Bike West Virginia - Meeting August 16 atSnowshoe Mountain, WV]
by director 25 Sep '09

25 Sep '09

Frank, I intend to stay in town to help promote the event locally since Positive Spin is primarily a local organization, but maybe I can get some recruits for next year. Nick ---------- Original Message ---------------------------------- From: Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)verizon.net> Date: Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:08:02 -0400 >Bicycle Board Members, > >I suppose this is an invitation. If you're interested, please reply all >and we can organize a contingent to represent Morgantown. Not much time >as this is next week. > >Frank > >-------- Original Message -------- >Subject: Bike West Virginia - Meeting August 16 at Snowshoe Mountain, WV >Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:32:12 -0400 >From: Kim Broughton <kimberlyjoshi(a)gmail.com> >To: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net > > > >Bike WV > > > >* * >*The West Virginia Cycling Foundation website ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…>* >Is where we keep our information. We are grateful for their support by >providing funding and allowing use of their resources. > >** >* * >Helmet poster > >*The West Virginia Helmet poster and brochures are here!* >The helmet safety posters and brochures are back from the print shop and >are beautiful. Many thanks to Stonewall Marketing Group ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> >for donating the creative work for this project! > >The posters are 11 x 17 and $10 each. > >Let me know if you would like to order posters or brochures ($2 each) >and I will get them right out to you! > >If you have information on bike shops in your area, please send it my >way. I would like to send them information on the posters and >brochures. Thanks! > > > >This newsletter is put together by Kim Broughton. Feel free to contact >me at kimberlyjoshi(a)mail.com <mailto:kimberlyjoshi@gmail.com>! > > > > September 23, 2009 > > > > > Ride with WV's Department of Transportation and show your support for > bicycle commuting > >October 2 (Friday) is a scheduled bicycle commute where the WV >Department of Transportation's Division Director and other staffers >commute from Putnam County to the Capitol Complex in Charleston, WV >(about 25 miles). Tom Smith, the Division Administrator for the >"Federal Highway Administration -- West Virginia Division" has joined >them as well. _*We have been invited to join this ride to show our >support for bicycle commuting.*_ > >The ride will start at the "Park and Ride" for US 35 in Putnam County at >6:30AM. > >It is possible that the WVDOT Television show will film a segment for >their show. > >If you have questions or comments, please email Kim Broughton at >kimberlyjoshi(a)gmail.com. Join the ride and thank WV DOT for the invitation! > > > > > > > > Forming of Legislative committee > >After the ride with DOT, several folks are joining in the office of >Stephen Fowler to unify our efforts towards a legislative agenda. We >are very excited to be involved in bringing together such amazing >expertise towards the goal of promoting safe and enjoyable cycling in WV. > > > > > > > > >This message was sent from Kim Broughton to fgmeindl(a)verizon.net. It was >sent from: West Virginia Cycling Foundation, Route 2, Box 331 B, >Charleston, WV 25314. You can modify/update your subscription via the >link below. > >Email Marketing by <http://www.icontact.com/a.pl/144186> >iContact - Try It Free! <http://www.icontact.com/a.pl/144186> > > >Manage your subscription ><http://app.icontact.com/icp/mmail-mprofile.pl?r=70515743&l=137531&s=0AHE&m=…> > ><http://app.icontact.com/icp/sub/forward?m=866483&s=70515743&c=0AHE&cid=3632…> > >View this message in the iContact Community: View message ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > Comment on this message ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > Receive as RSS ><http://community.icontact.com/p/wvcyclingfoundation/newsletters/wvcyclistss…> > >Share this message with others: del.icio.us ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > Digg ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > reddit ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > Facebook ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > StumbleUpon ><http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> > > > > > > > -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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WVU football game next Thurs night
by Frank Gmeindl 25 Sep '09

25 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, Will next Thursday's 7:30 pm WVU home football game affect your attendance at the Bicycle Board meeting? Frank

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[Fwd: Bike West Virginia - Meeting August 16 at Snowshoe Mountain, WV]
by Frank Gmeindl 24 Sep '09

24 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, I suppose this is an invitation. If you're interested, please reply all and we can organize a contingent to represent Morgantown. Not much time as this is next week. Frank -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Bike West Virginia - Meeting August 16 at Snowshoe Mountain, WV Date: Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:32:12 -0400 From: Kim Broughton <kimberlyjoshi(a)gmail.com> To: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net Bike WV * * *The West Virginia Cycling Foundation website <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…>* Is where we keep our information. We are grateful for their support by providing funding and allowing use of their resources. ** * * Helmet poster *The West Virginia Helmet poster and brochures are here!* The helmet safety posters and brochures are back from the print shop and are beautiful. Many thanks to Stonewall Marketing Group <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> for donating the creative work for this project! The posters are 11 x 17 and $10 each. Let me know if you would like to order posters or brochures ($2 each) and I will get them right out to you! If you have information on bike shops in your area, please send it my way. I would like to send them information on the posters and brochures. Thanks! This newsletter is put together by Kim Broughton. Feel free to contact me at kimberlyjoshi(a)mail.com <mailto:kimberlyjoshi@gmail.com>! September 23, 2009 Ride with WV's Department of Transportation and show your support for bicycle commuting October 2 (Friday) is a scheduled bicycle commute where the WV Department of Transportation's Division Director and other staffers commute from Putnam County to the Capitol Complex in Charleston, WV (about 25 miles). Tom Smith, the Division Administrator for the "Federal Highway Administration -- West Virginia Division" has joined them as well. _*We have been invited to join this ride to show our support for bicycle commuting.*_ The ride will start at the "Park and Ride" for US 35 in Putnam County at 6:30AM. It is possible that the WVDOT Television show will film a segment for their show. If you have questions or comments, please email Kim Broughton at kimberlyjoshi(a)gmail.com. Join the ride and thank WV DOT for the invitation! Forming of Legislative committee After the ride with DOT, several folks are joining in the office of Stephen Fowler to unify our efforts towards a legislative agenda. We are very excited to be involved in bringing together such amazing expertise towards the goal of promoting safe and enjoyable cycling in WV. This message was sent from Kim Broughton to fgmeindl(a)verizon.net. It was sent from: West Virginia Cycling Foundation, Route 2, Box 331 B, Charleston, WV 25314. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below. Email Marketing by <http://www.icontact.com/a.pl/144186> iContact - Try It Free! <http://www.icontact.com/a.pl/144186> Manage your subscription <http://app.icontact.com/icp/mmail-mprofile.pl?r=70515743&l=137531&s=0AHE&m=…> <http://app.icontact.com/icp/sub/forward?m=866483&s=70515743&c=0AHE&cid=3632…> View this message in the iContact Community: View message <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> Comment on this message <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> Receive as RSS <http://community.icontact.com/p/wvcyclingfoundation/newsletters/wvcyclistss…> Share this message with others: del.icio.us <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> Digg <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> reddit <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> Facebook <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…> StumbleUpon <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=70515743&msgid=866483&act=0AHE&c=…>

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Symbols/categories for Bike Route Map?
by Derek Springston 23 Sep '09

23 Sep '09

Hey guys, Did the Bike Board finalize a set of symbols and categories for our Bike Route map? I'm still working on getting all of the routes in. We're aiming to finish up our Bike Route Map for the October 19th Intermodal Facility grand opening. The most challenging and time consuming part of finishing this map could be finalizing and agreeing on the symbols and categories for the routes we've mapped. Please, let me know what was decided at the last meeting. Thanks, ~Derek “Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells _________________________________________________________________ Microsoft brings you a new way to search the web. Try Bing™ now http://www.bing.com?form=MFEHPG&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MFEHPG_Core_tagline_… bing_1x1

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Champion
by Frank Gmeindl 23 Sep '09

23 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, I was wondering why Betsy and gunnar missed the September Bicycle Board meeting. Today I read in Cycling News.com: Betsy Shogren (Cannondale Factory Racing) took top women's honors in the 2009 US National Ultra Endurance (NUE) series, which concluded with its eighth and final race at the Tahoe-Sierra 100 on September 12. The best four of each racer's results were used to calculate the standings. Eight races comprised the series, which commenced at the Cohutta 100 on April 25 and visited Tennessee, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Colorado, Georgia and California. Shogren completed six 100-milers, winning at the Lumberjack, Mohican and Fool's Gold. A second place at the Shenandoah Mountain 100 netted her the overall win. She also raced to third at the Wilderness 101 and fourth at the Cohutta. Whew! Congratulations, Betsy! Frank http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/shogren-schalk-clinch-100-miler-series-titl…

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State College bike lane and parking report
by Frank Gmeindl 21 Sep '09

21 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, Attached is my and Bill Austin's report on our trip to State College to review their bike lanes and bicycle parking. They have bikes and bike parking everywhere. If you just want to see the photos, go to http://s935.photobucket.com/albums/ad193/cyclm8/State_College/?albumview=sl… . I hope this will energize you to help Chip with the parking committee. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Re: [Bikeboard] inbound 705 between Mileground and Stewartstown Road
by Frank Gmeindl 19 Sep '09

19 Sep '09

Dear Bill, I am grateful to Dr. Rye for copying me on his message. A solution to Dr. Rye's and other novice cyclists' problem with 705 is to widen the right lane to 14 feet to enable motor vehicles to safely pass bicycles without having to cross the center line. Erecting Share the Road signs (MUTCD W11-1 & W16-1) in addition to widening the lane may increase motorist awareness that bicyclists belong on the roadway. Shoulders are not a part of the roadway (WV Code 17C-1-37) and are not intended for ordinary vehicular traffic. 17C-11-2 says, "every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties as the driver of a vehicle". Some of these rights include the right to use the roadway and the right to equal protection under the law. 17C-7-5 (a) says, "No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken" There is no minimum speed limit on 705 and cyclists are not prohibited from 705. The lanes are apparently insufficiently wide to enable motor vehicles and bicyclists to travel safely side by side in the lane. Given this situation, the law requires motorists to wait until it's clear to pass the cyclist. In Morgantown's current social, political and legal climate, a motorist slowing down for a cyclist as required by law is not expected. A practical solution is to widen the curb lane and remind motorists with Share the Road signs that bicycles may be present. A little enforcement would also help. Frank Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board League Cycling Instructor 1703 On 9/19/2009 12:35 PM, Jim Rye wrote: > Dear Bill, > > Do you know: Is inbound 705 between the Mileground and Stewartstown > road being expanded to 2 lanes, and in so doing, will the wide > shoulder be removed? > > This shoulder is an integral part of bicyclists' (I being one) > commuter route. I understand that, as cyclists, we are legally > entitled to riding on the roadway (except as stated within the WV > Bicycle Law pasted at the end of this message). However, the 50 > mph speed limit coupled with the high traffic density on this section > of 705 presents a real safety hazard to doing so. Furthermore, with > two inbound lanes and a speed limit of 50 mph, moving to the left hand > turn lane to turn onto Stewartstown Road (to continue our commute) > will present an even greater hazard to cyclists. > > If this expansion is going to happen and the speed limit will remain > 50 mph: I am requesting that (a) a paved shoulder be part of that > development, and (b) (regardless of the speed limit) ample signage be > installed to alert motorists that cyclists are using this roadway and > to be courteous (?yield?) to cyclists who will be merging into the > left hand turn lane to access Stewartstown Road. > > During 2006 and 2007, I served as a member of the MPO to represent > commuter cyclists. I thought we were headed in the "right thing to > do" direction in terms of creating a bicycle friendly greater > Morgantown area: a progressive community that wants to realize the > human and environmental health benefits of non-motorized transit and > attract like-minded professionals and their families who value such to > our area. > > If there is anyone else who should receive this > message, kindly forward it. Thank you very much. > > > *§17C-11-5. Riding on roadways and bicycle paths. * > > (c) Whenever a usable path for bicycles has been provided adjacent to > a roadway, bicycle riders shall use such path and shall not use the > roadway. > > > > > > Jim Rye > Professor > Science Education > Dept C&I/LS > College of Human Resources & Education > West Virginia University > PO Box 6122 > 604L Allen Hall > Morgantown, WV 26506-6122 > Phone: (304) 293-4416 > Fax: (304) 293-3802 > Email: jim.rye(a)mail.wvu.edu <mailto:jim.rye@mail.wvu.edu> > Web Page: http://depts.hre.wvu.edu/c&ils/currinst/rye.html > <http://depts.hre.wvu.edu/c&ils/currinst/rye.html> > Are YOU waitin' for the world to change? > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPOBMzMTP4U > ECAS/HRE NSF-Supported WV Watershed Dynamics Project > http://www.wvscience.org/wvwatershed/

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[Fwd: [Fwd: Action Alert: Transportation Enhancements under Attack Again!]]
by Frank Gmeindl 16 Sep '09

16 Sep '09

Senator Byrd's contact info: *Washington, D.C. Office:* 311 Hart Senate Office Building, District of Columbia 20510-4801 *Phone:* (202) 224-3954 *Fax:* (202) 228-0002 *Charleston Office:* (more district offices <http://lab.capwiz.com/bio/id/622&lvl=C&chamber=S#>) 300 Virginia Street, #2630 Charleston, West Virginia 25301 *Phone:* (304) 342-5855 *Fax:* (304) 343-7144 -------- Original Message -------- Subject: [Fwd: Action Alert: Transportation Enhancements under Attack Again!] Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 09:18:20 -0400 From: Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)verizon.net> To: Bicycle Board <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> CC: Jennie Selin <JSelin(a)hotmail.com>, Ralph Larue <rlarue(a)boparc.org>, Bill Austin <baustin(a)moncpc.org> Bicycle Board Members, I just read this this morning. Today! the Senate will vote on amendments 2370 and 2371 that would basically repeal Transportation Enhancement grants. I called Senator Byrd's office and urged him to vote NO on these. I encourage you to do the same. The Transportation Enhancement grant will fund our Effective Bicycling Education Program. They have also built the Morgantown Streetscape and I believe were used to build the rail trail. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/ -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Action Alert: Transportation Enhancements under Attack Again! Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:32:43 -0400 (EDT) From: League of American Bicyclists <bikeleague(a)bikeleague.org> Reply-To: meghan(a)bikeleague.org To: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net Having trouble viewing this email? Click here <http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001zhxIANf2OP4KNrc-H8q1BkEn9pQ…> You're receiving this email because of your relationship with League of American Bicyclists. Please confirm <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/c.jsp?t=1102708564964.12818.8512558115.2…> your continued interest in receiving email from us. You may unsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> if you no longer wish to receive our emails. American Bicyclists Update Archives <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV35bW_mvxsznCz…> *September 15, 2009 * * * *Action Alert* Transportation Enhancements Under Attack! FY 2010 Transportation Appropriations Bill We need your help - TODAY! Senator Coburn (R-OK) is offering two amendments to the FY10 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill that will strike funding for transportation enhancements. The two amendments are S. Amendment 2370 <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV1s5UkA0IC7Rvw…> and S. Amendment 2371 <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV1zOhUAJpaOQzY…>. The Transportation Enhancement program has provided between one-half and three-quarters of all Federal funding invested in bicycling and walking improvements in the last 20 years. More than $250 million is at stake in fiscal year 2010 - if Coburn's amendment is successful it will affect hundreds of trail projects, sidewalks, bicyclist education programs, bike rack on bus programs, and roadway improvements for bicyclists. S. Amendment 2370 prohibits funding for transportation enhancements if the Highway Trust Fund does not contain amounts sufficient to cover unfunded highway authorizations. S. Amendment 2371 allows states to opt out of the 10 percent set aside rule that require states to spend at least 10 percent of their surface transportation funding on transportation enhancements. We expect the amendments to be offered and voted on during Senate floor debate tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16. Please call your Senator immediately <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV0NqbZepGoCaaR…> and urge them to vote NO on S. Amendment 2370 and S. Amendment 2371 to the FY10 transportation appropriations bill. Thank You! The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of America's 57 million bicyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV0hFG-5Vt7qNpF…>. *Quick Links* Join the League <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV1Pl7GnXdlcNQN…> Sign up to Receive Enews <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV3pbMJ1CuvqCcv…> Cycling in Your Area <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV2axwPhNuF0OAv…> Search our Website <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV2ShrzW3Z3eD82…> facebook <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV27DNMM3B1mHnf…> Bike League Twitter League <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV2QQaBhojjZYqv…> Join Our Mailing List <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/email.jsp?m=1102316596448> Forward email <http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?m=1102316596448&ea=fgmeindl%40ver…> Safe Unsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> This email was sent to fgmeindl(a)verizon.net by bikeleague(a)bikeleague.org <mailto:bikeleague@bikeleague.org>. Update Profile/Email Address <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…>^(TM) | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp>. Email Marketing <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> by <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> League of American Bicyclists | 1612 K Street NW | Suite 800 | Washington | DC | 20006

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[Fwd: Action Alert: Transportation Enhancements under Attack Again!]
by Frank Gmeindl 16 Sep '09

16 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, I just read this this morning. Today! the Senate will vote on amendments 2370 and 2371 that would basically repeal Transportation Enhancement grants. I called Senator Byrd's office and urged him to vote NO on these. I encourage you to do the same. The Transportation Enhancement grant will fund our Effective Bicycling Education Program. They have also built the Morgantown Streetscape and I believe were used to build the rail trail. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/ -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Action Alert: Transportation Enhancements under Attack Again! Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:32:43 -0400 (EDT) From: League of American Bicyclists <bikeleague(a)bikeleague.org> Reply-To: meghan(a)bikeleague.org To: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net Having trouble viewing this email? Click here <http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001zhxIANf2OP4KNrc-H8q1BkEn9pQ…> You're receiving this email because of your relationship with League of American Bicyclists. Please confirm <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/c.jsp?t=1102708564964.12818.8512558115.2…> your continued interest in receiving email from us. You may unsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> if you no longer wish to receive our emails. American Bicyclists Update Archives <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV35bW_mvxsznCz…> *September 15, 2009 * * * *Action Alert* Transportation Enhancements Under Attack! FY 2010 Transportation Appropriations Bill We need your help - TODAY! Senator Coburn (R-OK) is offering two amendments to the FY10 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill that will strike funding for transportation enhancements. The two amendments are S. Amendment 2370 <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV1s5UkA0IC7Rvw…> and S. Amendment 2371 <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV1zOhUAJpaOQzY…>. The Transportation Enhancement program has provided between one-half and three-quarters of all Federal funding invested in bicycling and walking improvements in the last 20 years. More than $250 million is at stake in fiscal year 2010 - if Coburn's amendment is successful it will affect hundreds of trail projects, sidewalks, bicyclist education programs, bike rack on bus programs, and roadway improvements for bicyclists. S. Amendment 2370 prohibits funding for transportation enhancements if the Highway Trust Fund does not contain amounts sufficient to cover unfunded highway authorizations. S. Amendment 2371 allows states to opt out of the 10 percent set aside rule that require states to spend at least 10 percent of their surface transportation funding on transportation enhancements. We expect the amendments to be offered and voted on during Senate floor debate tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16. Please call your Senator immediately <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV0NqbZepGoCaaR…> and urge them to vote NO on S. Amendment 2370 and S. Amendment 2371 to the FY10 transportation appropriations bill. Thank You! The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of America's 57 million bicyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV0hFG-5Vt7qNpF…>. *Quick Links* Join the League <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV1Pl7GnXdlcNQN…> Sign up to Receive Enews <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV3pbMJ1CuvqCcv…> Cycling in Your Area <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV2axwPhNuF0OAv…> Search our Website <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV2ShrzW3Z3eD82…> facebook <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV27DNMM3B1mHnf…> Bike League Twitter League <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102708564964&s=12818&e=001UGhir-76UV2QQaBhojjZYqv…> Join Our Mailing List <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/email.jsp?m=1102316596448> Forward email <http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?m=1102316596448&ea=fgmeindl%40ver…> Safe Unsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> This email was sent to fgmeindl(a)verizon.net by bikeleague(a)bikeleague.org <mailto:bikeleague@bikeleague.org>. Update Profile/Email Address <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…>^(TM) | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp>. Email Marketing <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> by <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> League of American Bicyclists | 1612 K Street NW | Suite 800 | Washington | DC | 20006

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[Fwd: [LCI Group] More bike lane research]
by Frank Gmeindl 14 Sep '09

14 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, If bike lanes are not _>_ 5 feet wide, motorists pass cyclists closer than they would if there were no bike lane at all says a British study. On 8/25, I sent you a clip from /The Cyclist's Manifesto: The Case For Riding On Two Wheels Instead of Four/ that explained why bike lanes are obsolete and sharrows are the thing. Recall that when we proposed sharrows to the Traffic Commission we cited the San Francisco study that showed that cyclists practice better lane positioning and motorists give cyclists more room when passing when sharrows are on the road. The following study shows that if bike lanes are not _>_ 5 feet wide, motorists pass cyclists closer than they would if there were no bike lane at all. (My thanks to fellow LCI Frank Krygowski for sending this.) http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article6828100.ece "Cycle lanes encourage motorists to drive closer to bikes, says study" Cycle lanes can make roads more dangerous for cyclists because they encourage motorists to drive closer when overtaking bicycles, a study has found. Drivers give cyclists a wider berth on roads where there is no lane because they assume that they should share the road and make more allowance for the risk of wobbles. The study, conducted by Leeds and Bolton universities, challenges the approach taken by many local authorities, which is to promote cycling by painting cycle lanes and cycle symbols on their roads. It suggests that reducing the speed and volume of traffic would be more effective in improving cycle safety than narrow cycle lanes. Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, is planning to create 12 “cycle superhighways” by 2012 but his transport authority said yesterday that most of the network would be lanes painted on roads rather than segregated cycle paths. For the study the researchers mounted a camcorder on the rear rack of a bicycle and rode on three roads that each had sections with and without cycle lanes. On all three roads, drivers gave cyclists less room where there was a cycle lane. The greatest difference was recorded on the A6 near Garstang, Lancashire, where cars passed 18cm (7in) closer when the cyclist was in a cycle lane. All the cycle lanes were slightly narrower than the minimum width of 1.5m (5ft) recommended by the Department for Transport. The majority of Britain’s cycle lanes do not comply with this guideline. The study, which is due to be published in the scientific journal Accident Analysis and Prevention, says that on roads without cycle lanes, drivers “consciously perform an overtaking manoeuvre”. On roads with cycle lanes, they treat the space between the centre line and the outside edge of the cycle lane as exclusively their territory and make less adjustment for cyclists. The study concludes: “Cycle lanes do not appear to provide greater space for cyclists in all conditions.” The Highway Code tells drivers to “give cyclists at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car”. Chris Peck, policy co-ordinator of the Cyclists’ Touring Club, said: “Cycle lanes have a part to play in improving road conditions for cyclists, but this research has raised concerns that they are not always the best solution and may make cycling more unpleasant.” He said that too many authorities viewed cycle lanes as a cheap and easy alternative to more effective measures of reducing the vulnerability of cyclists, such as cutting the speed limit to 20mph and redesigning awkward junctions. Mr Peck added that narrow cycle lanes could create tension between drivers and cyclists, with drivers becoming annoyed when cyclists strayed outside them. Some cyclists felt under pressure to remain within the lane until the last moment when turning right, leading to sudden, potentially dangerous manoeuvres. He said: “Cycle lanes are a good visual reminder to people that cycling is being encouraged but they can cause cyclists to hug the kerb, which may not be the safest place to be.” Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Presentation to MPO
by Frank Gmeindl 09 Sep '09

09 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, Thanks to Jenny :-* , Jim :-D , Chip O:-) and Jake 8-) for their positive feedback and constructive recommendations for the presentation to the MPO tomorrow. Attached is a revision. I changed slide 4 about Child Obesity to add data about the $2.6M and 250,000 gallons of fuel that Mon Co spends each year to bus kids an average of 1 mile to school. I also replaced slide 9 which was about Portland travel cost savings with a slide that shows the revenue and jobs that cycling generates in places such as Colorado, Wisconsin, Outer Banks, Quebec and Indianapolis. Thanks again to all of you that took the time to look through the presentation and especially to give me helpful recommendations. I'll let you know how it turns out. Frank / Same Roads Same Rights Same Rules / -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Presentation to MPO Date: Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:40:26 -0400 From: Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)verizon.net> To: Bicycle Board <bikeboard(a)cheat.org>, Jennie Selin <JSelin(a)hotmail.com>, Ralph Larue <rlarue(a)boparc.org> Bicycle Board Members, Attached is a draft of the presentation that I plan to deliver to the MPO and Mayor of Star City this Thursday on behalf of the Bicycle Board. I appreciate your comments on it at your earliest convenience. Frank

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Presentation to MPO
by Frank Gmeindl 08 Sep '09

08 Sep '09

Now, with attachement! Sorry! Bicycle Board Members, Attached is a draft of the presentation that I plan to deliver to the MPO and Mayor of Star City this Thursday on behalf of the Bicycle Board. I appreciate your comments on it at your earliest convenience. Frank

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Presentation to MPO
by Frank Gmeindl 08 Sep '09

08 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, Attached is a draft of the presentation that I plan to deliver to the MPO and Mayor of Star City this Thursday on behalf of the Bicycle Board. I appreciate your comments on it at your earliest convenience. Frank

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MPO presentation
by Frank Gmeindl 06 Sep '09

06 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, I have accepted an invitation to make a 20 minute presentation "on bicycle planning and how it can be included in MPO planning efforts" to the Greater Morgantown Metropolitan Planning Organization and Star City Mayor next Thursday at 9:30 am at the MPO offices in the airport. All members of the MPO including the Policy Board, Technical Advisory Committee and Citizen Advisory Committee are invited to attend. So are 3 members of the WVDOH and a member of the Federal Highway Administration. Personally, I would like the presentation to result in the participants: * seeing bicycling as a valid means of transportation and an integral component of our transportation mix; * considering bicycling in any and all future transportation decisions; * looking to the Bicycle Board as valued bicycling consultants. I would appreciate your thoughts and especially any recommendations and data for the presentation. Please reply-all and maybe we can get some synergy going :-) Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Morgantown Bicycling Ordinance
by Frank Gmeindl 05 Sep '09

05 Sep '09

Bicycle Board Members, At last night's Bicycle Board meeting, I quoted from the City code about where you're allowed to park your bike. If you're interested, I've attached the article 373 of the Morgantown Code. It contains the laws governing bicycling in Morgantown. Our procedural guidelines require us to "review and support the implementation of Article 373 on Bicycles of the Morgantown Municipal Code". In the attached, I used Track Changes and marked up article 373 to show changes that I think should be made to it. I'd appreciate any comments you have. FYI, Article 373.09 says, "No person shall park a bicycle upon a street other than upon the roadway against the curb, or upon the sidewalk in a rack to support the bicycle, or against a building in such a manner as to afford the least obstruction to pedestrian traffic." Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Bikeboard September 2009