Cyclists in Lethbridge, Alta., are feeling frustrated.
Five months after the installation, bike lanes there’s already a proposal before council to take them out.
“The bike paths are there for everyone and we just need a chance to use them,” said Penny Warris, co-owner of Analog Books.
The effort to stop any new bike lanes — and potentially remove the current ones — was initiated by Coun. Rajko Dodic, who stated the paths have made it harder for people with mobility problems to get to the sidewalks next to businesses, and are hindering the success of the downtown.
But city council voted to pass the proposal to a committee meeting in May and request more details and public feedback from staff.
“It might not change anything but if it at least satisfies people that they were at least heard on the issue, and that’s where I had a main concern that some people believe they were not heard on the issue,” said Dodic.
Cyclists are pleased that the paths are remaining, at least for now, and they’re optimistic that more people will use them as the weather improves.
Supporters of bike infrastructure also indicate the paths are beneficial for downtown businesses.
“The support was overwhelmingly positive that people would like to use the bike paths. They know there’s issues with them, but they haven’t had a chance to use them yet to prove whether they’re worthwhile or not,” said Warris.
A booth will also be set up at the April 25th Community Conversations event at the Enmax Centre for more public consultation.
