To the Editor:

Thanks to the City Times editor and Mayor Mike Wiza for recent news regarding bicycling in Stevens Point.

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee (BPAC) may need to expand their focus beyond lobbying local government to add bike lanes in the city. The committee could more actively engage in promoting bicycle safety and the proper operation of bicycles on streets and roads.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor, for a recent article regarding bicyclists observing “rules of the road”. At times it seems area cyclists forget what the red octagon signs indicate, the letters STOP notwithstanding.

Even worse, they must be more color blind than I am. I recently witnessed a young couple ride across a main intersection against a red light with traffic approaching. Thankfully the driver was more alert than the clueless bicyclists. On numerous occasions in recent years, I have observed cyclists operating irresponsibly.

Some members of the BPAC seem to pursue their goals with no apparent concern for the cost to local taxpayers. Even with grants, the costs can be significant. In addition, the removal of vehicular lanes to accommodate bike lanes invites the potential for poor traffic flow and more danger for both motorist and cyclist.

Let’s do what we can to improve bicycling in the area, but not with a blank check and not without considering impacts of traffic flow.

Martin Wacker
Stevens Point