Multi-use paths, closed to bikes but not pedestrians?

With parks closed in Sonoma County to prevent spread of COVID-19, the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition raises a fair concern: why are multi-use paths off-limits to cyclists, but still available to pedestrians?

It seems unfair to give special privilege to one type of user over others — when neither, as a group, is more, or less, likely to flout physical-distancing requirements.

In a letter to county officials, coalition Executive Director Eris Weaver points out: “On the roads and paths over the past week, I have seen both cyclists and pedestrians following the social distance rules, and I have seen both cyclists and pedestrians ignoring them. I would understand — and support — closing the path to EVERYONE, if that’s what it takes to slow the spread of COVID-19.

“Pedestrians can walk sidewalks. Closing transportation routes like the Joe Rodota, Santa Rosa Creek, and SMART trails to cyclists forces riders — who may be commuting to essential jobs — to ride on unsafe streets instead.”

You can read more about COVID-19 by visiting my main blog (Cynthia Parkhill : Library Technician, Volunteer, and Advocate).