Cyclists not safe on the street

I have no argument with the general incompatibility of pedestrians and bicycles, but as other writers have alluded to, there are really no safe alternatives, especially for younger or less capable cyclists to riding on the sidewalks.

I was an ardent bicycle commuter until a few years ago when I was "taken out" by a cube van, travelling at high speed on Hwy 97.

The driver wasn't paying attention, wandered onto the shoulder, and slammed me off the road.

Until there are physical barriers, where other vehicles cannot intrude, there are no practical, safe commuting routes anywhere near Kelowna.

One has to wonder why there is so much foot-dragging on the creation of a comprehensive, linked cycling network.

Every bicycle commuter who rides regularly, represents an approximately $6000.00 a year loss to all the various "services" a motor vehicle requires.

I am sure this has not gone unnoticed by the powers that be and their friends. Draw your own conclusions.

Andrew Kiesewetter