Editor:
Please consider, that if we mix pedestrians and cyclists on Main Street closed to motorized traffic, it will be neither safe nor inviting to anyone, unless we clearly communicate that pedestrians have an absolute right of way.
And somehow manage to mandate bikers to only go very slowly. Wishful thinking, unless you actively enforce it.
This is already a big, and in my opinio still ignored issue on our trails every weekend. But at least the traffic there moves largely in only two directions.
However, it doesn't take much imagination, to predict that Main Street traffic will be moving in countless and unpredictable directions, while speed variances could be very substantial.
At best, there will be constant stress of having to look over one's shoulder. At worst, a child could unexpectedly run across, get hit and end up in a hospital.
Why not make it safe and stress free for everyone and mandate bikers to dismount? Just like Banff has done.
Our "damn the torpedoes" public safety attitude continues even though many visitors overtly act, as if it was party time with no restrictions.
Here's a reminder of what Dr Hinshaw had to say recently.
"Since daily case numbers have declined recently in Alberta, people may be tempted to believe they no longer need to take precautions.Unfortunately, this is not the case. It is critical that all of us continue to take steps to protect our communities."
What steps has our municipal government taken to help protect our community?
Please step up, as we have nobody but you, to count on.
Bill Piekos,
Canmore
