03/12/1979 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Lieuallen believed curb cuts were not for cyclists as one person who had testified suggested, but for the use of handicapped (Mr. Hanks agreed). Mr. Lieuallen submitterl a list of people in favor of the bike/traffic plan that did not get to testify. ~ Mr. Haws said he supported the City Managerls decision. He said that parking on a city street is a privilege, not a right. The street is a transportation route, and the bicycle is a means of transportation. It has to have a higher priority than parking. Parking is the biggest hazard between motorists and bicylists, he said. Mr. Obie failed to see the "compromise." He was concerned about the City's liability when the bike lanes are installed because they are encouraging the use of the street when there are better alternatives. Parking is not a consideration. It would need to be taken off the street. Sixty-six riders a day does not warrant the bicycle lanes. Mr. Obie moved, seconded by Ms. Smith, to adopt Alternative C, bicycle lanes from Bailey Hill to Polk on 18th Avenue, and then down Polk for one block and a half to the Amazon bike path, then to the Jefferson Pool bypass that would extend to Jefferson and use 16th and 17th avenues. Mr. Haws opposed the motion. Ms. Schue pointed out that these streets are start and stop streets. Ms. Miller noted that 17th and Amazon are more pleasant to ride for a person not in a hurry. For a bicyclist in a hurry, in bad weather, at night, that rider needs the same conditions as a motorist, she ~ said. It suggests 18th. The other alternatives are supplemental. ,., She would vote no on the motion. Mayor Keller asked the destination of the riders. He felt that the City should present more information to the Council about the destination of the riders. Rollcall vote was taken, and the motion was defeated, with Smith and Obie voting aye. Mr. Delay moverl, seconderl by r~s. Smith to deny the appeal of the City Managerls action, and to confirm and endorse the placement of the bike and auto turn lanes on West 18th Avenue as proposed. Mr. Delay felt that the destination was not important; what was important was that the City provide a facility that is easy for people to use. This is a far less costly lane than the alternatives given. Ms. Smith asked that the Council continue to monitor the bicycle lane on 18th Avenue. She was in favor of the motion. 3/12/79--8 e \42.