Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

Cyclists risk fine if they bike on sidewalks

WINNIPEG cyclists need to dismount their bikes on sidewalks to avoid fines, a local lobby group warns.

Mike Cohoe, a director for cycling group Bike to the Future, said some cyclists have been ticketed $110 for riding their bikes on a sidewalk to cross the Osborne Bridge, which is currently under construction. While some cyclists feel unsafe biking on the roadway, Cohoe said the best thing they can do is walk their bike across the sidewalk or plan an alternate route.

The city had expected pedestrians and cyclists crossing the bridge from Osborne Village to use a path underneath the bridge's north side to get to the legislature grounds or the Assiniboine Avenue bikeway. However, rising river levels have made the walkway impassable.

Cohoe estimates about 1,500 cyclists travel through the area every day.

"The best way to not get ticketed is to walk your bike across," Cohoe said, noting the non-profit group plans to publicize alternate routes cyclists can take during the construction period.

Winnipeg Police Service spokesman Const. Jason Michalyshen said during this time of year more people may be out and about, and officers want to make sure roadways, including paved sidewalks, are "safe."

 

-- staff

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 11, 2011 B2

(You must be logged in to post your reaction)

Your reaction?

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

The Winnipeg Free Press does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. These terms were revised effective April 16, 2010; View the changes. New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.

letters

Make text: Larger | Smaller

Poll

What should be done with old blue boxes once new recycling carts are rolled out?

View Results

Proudly brought to you by:

The Dilawri Group

Ads by Google