HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0679.043 2022-2024 P/Pci2wO
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From: Franz Weber
Sent: Monday, February 5, 2024 8:55 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 125
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I would like to object to the current content of Bill 125. i" -
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There are a lot of concerns regarding this bill, which will deny bicycle tours access to two areas. o? ,: a
I assume that the bill is trying to address safety concerns, created by large bicycle groups that create a hazar jjpr X
themselves and other traffic participants. - ---
While the goal is admirable and understandable,there are numerous flaws:
- Many tour companies only do tours with 1—3 participants.These would be punished for challenges created by
large groups.
- Some tour companies only allow experienced riders, provide detailed safety training before the ride, and
experienced guides during the ride.
- There are other recreational group rides, not commercial,which could raise the same concerns as commercial
rides
- There are numerous other roads on this island, with similar conditions.
- There is no other state/county that has similar restrictions.
The problem seems to be certain groups of unexperienced, recreational riders that sometimes are being put on the road
at one place, and then picked up again at another meeting location. Cycling advocates, cycling groups, local commercial
bike tour companies all agree that this can be a nuisance and create dangerous situations.
Swimming in the ocean isn't forbidden because of the potential danger.The use of motorcycles and cars is not forbidden
because of the accidents. Instead, measures have been created to make it safer.
Per state law, Cyclists are considered traffic participants, with the same rights and responsibilities as other traffic
participants. Commercial tour companies have a business license to organize and conduct tours.
There are numerous options to increase safety.Tour companies could be required to
- Restrict the size of each group,
- start groups with specific time intervals
- provide detailed safety instructions
- equip all bikes with front and rear lights
- provide reflective triangles on the back of each cyclist
- pull over and let traffic pass, if more than a certain number of cars are behind them (similar to laws on the
mainland)
- offer tours only on specific days, and/or specific times
As far as I know, no data has been provided regarding accidents or incidents on the roads that are being restricted.
To emphasize again:Safety is of utmost importance. How to increase safety, should be researched and evaluated
thoroughly.
There is a lot more to say and consider, but I would appreciate it, if groups that have some experience with bike safety,
traffic, regulations(such as PATH, HCC, LAB) are being involved in the process.
Franz Weber V a.
President, HCC Comm. No. i
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Ref. Dote C
Certified bike safety instructor-LCI, League of American Bicyclists-LAB
Kailua-Kona, Hi 96740
(808) 896-6655
FIM2020@outlook.com
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