Rally in support of 43rd Ave by @brucemol

Click "Show more" to read about this event. Cyclists Rally for 43rd Avenue Road Improvement
Despite below freezing temperatures, 175 people gathered at the Wesbild Centre on Saturday in support of the proposed road diet for 43rd Ave. An estimated 90% were on bicycles, and many rode to the event on 43rd. They also expressed support for cycling infrastructure improvements in general, and are grateful to the City for making Vernon a better place to walk and cycle.
Organizer Gerry Naito got the biggest cheer when he said: "Road improvements proposed for 43rd Ave are not just about cycling. They will make the road safer for motorists, and will improve access to businesses. Cycling lanes are just an added benefit -- how great is that?"
Similar 4-lane to 3-lane conversions in other North American cities show that traffic counts typically either remain the same or increase following the change, while there is a significant reduction in automobile collisions.
The current configuration only allows for left turns at the intersections with 29th, 30th, and 31st Streets. There are no left turns permitted into the businesses in between. The redesign will provide an almost continuous two way left turn lane, and dedicated left turn lanes at intersections.
Right turns off of 43rd will be easier as well. By moving the travel lanes away from the curb, delivery vehicles, long wheel base trucks, and vehicles pulling trailers will have a greater turning radius available. Pedestrians too will benefit from additional space between them and passing vehicles.
Families were well represented at the event, with some of the youngsters arriving in trailers pulled by their parents. Cycling access to schools was mentioned by many, with two schools located on 43rd Ave, and the 32nd Street intersection one of the few places for cyclists to cross that busy highway. The five blocks between 27th and 32nd are an obstacle, with bike lanes on 43rd Ave east and west of that section.
Many of those gathered also took the time to sign a petition entitled: MAKE 43RD AVE SAFER! Copies of the petition are available for signature at several local businesses.
Contacts:
Kim Young, Chair of GVCAC by e-mail: coach_5@telus.net or phone: 250 542 3180
Gerry Naito, by e-mail: gnaito@junction.net or phone: 250 558 9842

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Entertainment

[mckbett]

Well done, everyone! It's nice to see so many people on bikes. It will increase awareness and safety for everyone on the roads.

[elementeco]

Way to go Gerry, our whole community thanks you!

[alexwarrior1]

Nicely done!