Sunday, June 27, 2010

Respecting Cyclists in Work Zones


 
In Copenhagen, it is clear that respect for cyclists is part of their green ethic. This photo is one such example. Note the placement of this construction equipment on the street. Even in Portland, we'd have the equipment as close as possible to the curb, perhaps even on part of the sidewalk to insure no potential conflict with vehicular traffic. In this example, the equipment provides an opportunity for passage by people on bicycles and motorists. The guidebook was true to the words on the paper when it states: "In Denmark the cyclist is king. Everyone in Denmark cycles, regardless of age or class, and there are excellent cycle lanes in all towns, cities, and most of the countryside. Cyclists usually have right of way in traffic and, particularly in Copenhagen, they take no prisoners."
Tomorrow, I will do more peak hour riding and will see if I can tell any difference.

As I was riding around the City tonight, there was a lot of traffic for Sunday night after 9 PM. I drove through the square where they have the World Cup viewing parties and enjoyed the scene. Argentina beat Mexico 3 to 1 and there was a big crowd. A few light blue and white jerseys cheering for Argentina, but mainly just Danes enjoying football. I left just as the game was ending and took a circular route going home. As I was biking home, there was a group of about 15 cyclists in the lane ahead of me. It was a nice way to end the day.
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