Thursday, March 28, 2019

Don’t worry, be happy


BikeWalkLee Column
The News-Press, March 28, 2019
by Ken Gooderham

Not to over-generalize, but people who bike and walk are typically a pretty friendly bunch.

It’s not at all uncommon for fellow bikers to greet each other as they pass on the path, or for walkers to exchange hellos with a fellow foot soldier on their morning meander. (I’m not meaning to exclude runners, of course, it’s just that for some it’s hard to be friendly through the pain or oxygen deprivation.)

Maybe this congeniality is the vestige of small-town civility, or the cordial camaraderie of fellow travelers on the bike/ped path. Perhaps it’s just endorphins erupting from the exercise, another sign that biking and walking do you a world of good. (Anecdotal to be sure, but if a scientist were to assert that there’s a causal relationship between biking/walking and sociability, I wouldn’t argue with them.)

Actually, it may be far more simple than that: You’re likely to be likeable to people whom you can see and hear, people as vulnerable and accessible as you at that moment… people who aren’t encased in moving blocks of metal and glass, but who are traveling along at a more human pace.

We’re not talking about making fast friends here, but the simple social interactions that pass for pleasant these days (and couldn’t we all use a little more pleasant some days?). It doesn’t have to be someone you know or even recognize, although regular bikers and walkers often establish a wave-and-smile relationship with others they see regularly on their self-propelled travels through the world.

Sometimes, it’s just nice to be nice… although it can have other benefits. First, being aware enough to acknowledge others around you is usually not a bad idea, particularly if you are out where there are other larger things moving in your vicinity (like cars and trucks).

In those circumstances, it’s not a bad idea to wave at nearby drivers, particularly if they do something nice such as not block the crosswalk or back up so you can ride or walk by them. As the most vulnerable road user in that roadway relationship, it’s prudent to reinforce positive behavior… as well as just plain being civil.

Being aware enough to smile and wave also means you’re being aware enough to stay safe. Social niceties can grind to a halt once the earbuds or headphones go on, but that process also steals one of your key senses (hearing) that is crucial to stay safe (and not just be nice). Listening to motivating music or an interesting podcast can make the walk or ride go faster, but something loud enough to block the surrounding sound is also loud enough to keep you from hearing an accelerating engine or screeching brakes.

Being even tepidly pleasant to someone you pass on the path is also just good for you as a person – because that’s you recognizing the humanity of another person, something that can be in short supply some days and among some people. Unfortunately, it’s very easy to demonize people you can’t see and won’t listen to… but someone right there in front of you, doing something as innately human as walking, is worth a moment of niceness. Think of it as a way to balance out all the time you spend yelling at the TV.

Of course, if you want to be curt to your fellow walkers and bikers, that’s your right. Your loss, but your right.

However, you may have heard what some say about karma… and there’s no better way to see it in action than to see how people respond to one another in a setting where there’s no expectation in place (such as walking down a street). Walk around with a smile on your face, and you’ll probably see others smiling back at you (either that, or they’ll be wondering what you’re up to – its own karmic reward). Greet the world with a scowl, and you’ll probably get the same in return more often than not.

How you face the world is up to you. But I’m guessing you’ll find if you walk around like you don’t have a care in the world, by the time you get done you probably won’t..

 

Ready to ride or run? 

 

Run? As the run schedule starts to slow down (and the temperatures start to go up), there are still a few events ahead: A Fort Myers 5K and Naples 10K on April 6, and a 5K run/walk at North Collier Regional Park April 13. Details at ftmyerstrackclub.com, 3dracinginc.com and gcrunner.org.

Ride? As always, a collection of Critical Mass events await: The Cape night ride is March 29, followed by the Fort Myers Slow Roll Saturday morning, with the original downtown Fort Myers night ride on April 5 night (meetup.com). For a longer option, there’s Cycling for Fallen Heroes on April 7, with 10/28/42/62 mile rides from the Trek Bike Store in Estero to benefit the Brotherhood Ride (active.com).



Both? Upcoming events include:
  • Saturday, May 11: Cape Coral Sprint Tri (trifind.com)
  • Saturday, May 18: Life’s a Beach Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 2: 33rd Annual Fitness Challenge Triathlon, Naples (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 9: Heartland Sprint and Olympic Tri, Sebring (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Registration is open for this year’s Galloway Captiva Tri on Sept. 7-8, which offers a new format this go-round with the sprint race on Saturday morning and the kids’ events Sunday morning. Details at www.gearedup.biz/captiva-triathlon.
  • Willing to drive? Check trifind.com or active.com for tris around the state.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RIDE:

Have a favorite route you like to bike, or a unique walk you’d like to share with others? Tell us about it at info@bikewalklee.org, and maybe we can feature it in an upcoming column.

# # #

Ken Gooderham writes this on behalf of BikeWalkLee, a community coalition raising public awareness and advocating for complete streets in Lee County — streets that are designed, built, operated and maintained for safe and convenient travel for all users: pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Information, statistics and background online at www.BikeWalkLee.org. 


 

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Can trails impact our traffic safety problem?


Florida Weekly 'Outdoors' column, March 27, 2019
danMOSER
bikepedmoser@gmail.com

Yarborough Trail is the spine of the Fort Myers trail network. DAN MOSER / FLORIDA WEEKLY

If I’ve heard it once I’ve heard it 100 times. People will no longer ride their bikes. This sad statement comes from visitors, new residents, snowbirds and long-time residents. While I do my best to explain the principles and benefits of vehicular cycling versus operating on sidewalks, most are not swayed because of our dismal traffic crash history and what they observe every day. For these frustrated cyclists and countless others who would prefer staying off the roads, wouldn’t it be great to be able to ride (and walk or run) separated from traffic on dedicated pathways that are designed and built to handle more than pedestrians?

Our area has a number of examples of shared use paths, but creating a much more complete network is necessary for cycling to be a viable option to driving.

Dale Allen, president of Florida Greenways & Trails Foundation, recently addressed local elected officials and others at the Collabratory in Fort Myers. His presentation included reminders that Florida and many of its communities is among the most dangerous in America for pedestrians and cyclists.

Having a robust trail network can change this, he said. Mr. Allen highlighted several examples of popular trail networks around the U.S., with details related to the multitude of benefits they generate, from economic to health and safety to quality of life. In Florida, SUNTrail can be the catalyst to changing our reputation, he said.

Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson invited Mr. Allen to address a meeting of the Florida League of Cities and mentioned the idea of creating special taxing districts as a way to fund bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Bonita Springs Deputy Mayor Peter O’Flinn, Florida Bicycle Association’s 2018 Elected Official of the Year, explained how transportation impact fees can be used as mobility fees to expand use beyond accommodating more cars on the roads and instead cover all users’ needs.

Mr. Allen said the Florida Department of Transportation is supportive of SUNTrail and the concept of trail networks throughout Florida.

To learn more about the Gulf Coast Regional Connector, our segment of SUNTrail, visit Florida Greenways & Trails Foundation at www.fgtf.org and bikewalklee.blogspot.com.  ¦

 
- Dan Moser is a long-time bicycle/pedestrian advocate and traffic safety professional who cycles, runs and walks regularly for transportation, recreation and fitness. Contact him at bikepedmoser@gmail.com and 334-6417. 

For Lee County cycling and tri events visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL). The Florida Bicycle Association (floridabicycle.org) is your source for statewide happenings. BikeWalkLee’s blog site has all the information you’ll need to stay abreast of advocacy efforts in Southwest Florida as well as statewide and nationally.






Monday, March 25, 2019

March 25: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Saturday, April 6: The Fast and the Furriest 5K. Whether you are a serious runner, a weekend jogger or just enjoy walking, this event is for you!  Help GCHS with it's mission to provide humane care for surrendered animals by offering refuge, providing medical care, and facilitating an adoptive home in it's no-kill shelter. Day of Race Registration starts at 6:00 am, 5k starts 7:30 am. Gulf Coast Humane Society, Hammond Stadium Fort Myers (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 6: 10K Run for the Music. Packet Pick Up is 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri., April 5th at Naples on the Run NEW LOCATION (20 10th St. S, Naples, FL, 34102) or race day starting at 6 a.m. at Artis-Naples. (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 13: Wellfit Girls Hop to the Top, 5K timed run and fun run, and 1 mile walk, North Collier Regional Park (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 20: One Human Race 5K, Golden Gate High School, Naples (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 27: Friends of Foster Children Sunshine 5K, CCPS Admin Center, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tropicool 5K, Olde Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:
  • Friday, March 29: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7 p.m., start at 7:30 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, March 30: Saturday Slow Roll 8 a.m. meet-up at 2160 McGregor Blvd. Recommended for inexperienced/young riders. Distance is 6 miles, includes group ride instruction. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, March 31: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Friday, April 5: SWFlorida Critical Mass ride. A family-friendly slow ride through Fort Myers gathering at 7:14 p.m. and starting at 8 p.m. Front and rear bike lights required. Grab your helmet, bring all your friends and meet in the open field next to Publix at First Street Village, 2160 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, April 7:Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths).The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, April13: Sanibel Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7:30 p.m. at Jerry’s Shopping Center, 1700 Periwinkle Way, on Sanibel. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, April 14:Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths).The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tour de Femme Florida, ladies-only ride, multiple distances, presented by Gulf Coast Velo Cycling Club (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:

  • Saturday, May 11: Cape Coral Sprint Tri. The race features a 1/4 mile swim from the Yacht Club Beach, 11 mile bike ride and a 5k run through the beautiful, historic area of Southeast Cape Coral. (trifind.com)
  • Saturday, May 18: Life’s a Beach Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 2: 33rd Annual Fitness Challenge Triathlon, Naples (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 9: Heartland Sprint and Olympic Tri, Sebring (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.









Wednesday, March 20, 2019

Bonita Springs' Deputy Mayor Peter O'Flinn recevies FBA 2018 Annual Award for Elected Official Champion

At the March 20th meeting of the Bonita Springs City Council, the Florida Bicycle Association* (FBA)'s Executive Director, Becky Alfonso, presented Deputy Mayor Peter O'Flinn with FBA's 2018 Annual Award for Elected Official Champion.  Each year, FBA presents awards in recognition of outstanding leaders in various categories--from Club of the Year, Citizen Advocate, Law Enforcement Agency, Elected Official Champion, to Volunteers. Congratulations to Deputy Mayor O'Flinn, and thanks to FBA for recognizing his contributions to SWFL.


Deputy Mayor Peter O'Flinn (holding plaque) with Councilman Mike Gibson (L), FBA's Becky Alfonso (R), City Manager Arlene Hunter, and Deputy City Manager Matt Feeney [Mayor Peter Simmons in back]
 In presenting the award FBA's Becky Alfonso made the following comments:
 

 "Deputy Mayor Peter O’Flinn has demonstrated his outstanding leadership both in the City and throughout SWFL to advocate for complete streets as the best way to realize the City's vision of human-scale development and quality of life. He made this issue his #1 priority. As a result of these efforts, Bonita Springs received national recognition (by Smart Growth America) as one of the12 communities in the United States for its exemplary work on implementing complete streets.

Peter has led the effort to educate the public about the value of roundabouts and road diets, which has been critical to bringing these changes to SWFL.  Equally important, since he was elected he has been committed to bringing to reality a rails-to-trails trail to connect Bonita Springs and Estero (10 miles) and make it part of the statewide network, with a vision of how to take these two cities to the next level.

Peter has built strong relationships with the Greenways and Trails Foundation, Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Conservation Fund. Through his hard work, leadership and commitment, these leaders are now part of "Peter's team” to make Bonita Springs a complete community.

 It is my honor to present Bonita Springs Deputy Mayor Peter O’Flinn our 2018 Elected Official Champion of the Year award."
 
In receiving the award, Deputy O'Flinn said he was part of a team effort, highlighting the contributions of outstanding staff--City Manager Arlene Hunter and Deputy City Manager Matt Feeney--along with Councilman Mike Gibson who has worked on these issues for many years and is the Council's liaison to the City's Bike/Ped Advisory Committee.

*The Florida Bicycle Association (FBA) is a membership-based 501c3 non-profit whose mission is bicycling education and promotion of smart cycling. FBA is not a bicycle club - we are and always will be people, businesses, organizations and communities working together to build a bicycle-friendly Florida to benefit all.

 
 
Congratulations to all the award recipients!

 
 
 






Monday, March 18, 2019

On March 25th Plan to attend Estero's final Bike/Ped Workshop


Plan to attend Estero’s final Bike/Ped workshop 
on Monday, March 25, 2019



When:
Monday
March 25, 2019
5 - 7 p.m.


Where:
Estero Community Park
Recreation Center
Want to learn about the preliminary results and findings of Estero’s first Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan?

Please plan on attending the final public workshop at 5 – 7 p.m., Monday, March 25, at the Estero Community Park Recreation Center.

The workshop will provide a brief summary of the overall project. But the focus will be on the preliminary results and recommendations of the master plan. 
Topics will include:

  • Public Engagement Results
  • Bicycle & Pedestrian Vision and Goals
  • Draft Recommendation

Residents will have time to provide input and feedback about each topic as well as any interests related to bicycle and pedestrian facilities within Estero. 

Hope to see you there.

March 18: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Saturday, March 23: The Inaugural Marlins 5K run or walk. The inaugural Marlins 5K to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida! Hosted by Really Fun Endurance Club. Come run or walk this fast and flat course! 6:30 a.m. Begins and ends at Marlins Brewhouse on Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers (3dracinginc.com
  • Saturday, March 23: Baker Park 5K, Naples (gcrunner.org
  • Saturday, April 6: The Fast and the Furriest 5K, Gulf Coast Humane Society, Hammond Stadium Fort Myers (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 6: 10K Run for the Music, Artis-Naples, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 13: Wellfit Girls Hop to the Top, 5K timed run and fun run, and 1 mile walk, North Collier Regional Park (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 20: One Human Race 5K, Golden Gate High School, Naples (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 27: Friends of Foster Children Sunshine 5K, CCPS Admin Center, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tropicool 5K, Olde Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:

  • March 22-23: Pedal & Play in Paradise. Pedal and Play in Paradise is about having fun, but it also supports the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and TEAM Punta Gorda's Bicycle Initiatives.  We have something for everyone--the casual bike rider, more serious cyclists, mystery lovers, and folks who just want to tour our beautiful city and learn about its future. 15-, 30- and 62-mile routes plus a Mystery Tour Sunday, plus a City Manager’s Tour Saturday (pedalandplayinparadise.com/
  • Sunday, March 23: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Friday, March 29: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7 p.m., start at 7:30 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, March 30: Saturday Slow Roll 8 a.m. meet-up at 2160 McGregor Blvd. Recommended for inexperienced/young riders. Distance is 6 miles, includes group ride instruction. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, March 31: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Friday, April 5: SWFlorida Critical Mass ride. A family-friendly slow ride through Fort Myers gathering at 7:14 p.m. and starting at 8 p.m. Front and rear bike lights required. Grab your helmet, bring all your friends and meet in the open field next to Publix at First Street Village, 2160 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, April 7:Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths).The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, April13: Sanibel Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7:30 p.m. at Jerry’s Shopping Center, 1700 Periwinkle Way, on Sanibel. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, April 14:Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths).The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tour de Femme Florida, ladies-only ride, multiple distances, presented by Gulf Coast Velo Cycling Club (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:

  • Saturday, May 11: Cape Coral Sprint Tri. The race features a 1/4 mile swim from the Yacht Club Beach, 11 mile bike ride and a 5k run through the beautiful, historic area of Southeast Cape Coral. (trifind.com)
  • Saturday, May 18: Life’s a Beach Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 2: 33rd Annual Fitness Challenge Triathlon, Naples (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 9: Heartland Sprint and Olympic Tri, Sebring (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.









Thursday, March 14, 2019

BWL Column: Don’t be driven to distraction

BikeWalkLee Column
The News-Press "Go Coastal" section, March 14, 2019
by Ken Gooderham
 
One of the many advantages of walking, running or biking is the opportunity to see more of what’s going on around you, since you’re moving at a more leisurely pace than your average car or truck. You also inevitably end up at intersections watching those same cars and trucks as they stop and start, turn and travel.
That probably means you also inevitably watch drivers do (or almost do) dumb things behind the wheel. Watch them long enough and you’ll probably detect a telling pattern: The drivers doing dumb things are more often than not distracted drivers, looking down at their phones’ texts or emails instead of looking up and watching out for the other road users.

 There are studies galore about how dangerous distracted driving is, both to the drivers and to anyone else sharing the road… particularly walkers, runners and cyclists who lack the protective tons of metal afforded to motor vehicles. Unfortunately, too many drivers are too busy looking at texts and emails or simply talking away on their phones behind the wheel to read said studies, so their dangerous behavior continues.

 Among the many prospective bills in the hopper this legislative session (which commenced March 5) is one which would make distracted driving – including texting, reading or talking on a cell phone -- a primary offense, meaning police officers could pull over drivers if they see that activity – not add that to the charge when some other illegal incident (say, running over a pedestrian) earns the driver police attention.

 Now that session is under way, the scope of this bill is being expanded to include all distractions that can divert a driver’s attention from the task at hand of rolling down the highway. That includes, and I quote:

·         Reading;

·         Writing;

·         Grooming;

·         Applying beauty products;

·         Interacting with pets and unsecured cargo;

·         Using personal wireless communications devices; or

·         Engaging in any other activity, conduct, task or actions which causes distractions.

There are a ton of studies that show the impact of distracted driving, the danger that not paying attention can mean for other road users, be they on foot, on bike or motorcycles or in another motor vehicle. I won’t bore you with statistics, but instead urge you to stand by the side of the road (but perhaps well off the road) and see how many distracted drivers you notice. I think you’ll be surprised.

 Is making any distraction a primary offense too much over-reach? The civil libertarians in the audience may think so… but, unfortunately, the rise in traffic fatalities both statewide and locally make an equally pressing case that stronger action is necessary to make a difference. (The proposed law also gives police some latitude for first-time offenses, so it may be possible to make an impact without issuing a ticket.)

 Other states seem to get it. A vast majority (reports say 43 and counting) make texting while driving a primary offense. These reports are less clear on how many have branched out to include other forms of distractions, but it just makes sense to target more common distractions if the goal is to get people to focus on actually driving while driving.

Perhaps we should take it one step further and work on some disincentives to distracted cycling or even walking. Wandering (or bicycling) around aimlessly while doing everything but walk or bike is equally dangerous; the only advantage is (usually) the only people put at risk are the ones who are doing the distracted action – not everyone else around them.

 If the Legislature starts getting cold feet on the concept of attacking every driving distraction (not uncommon as bills progress through hearings and revisions), we hope lawmakers at least stick to the original plan and make driving while texting or talking (e.g. using any wireless device) a primary offense. That would be a big step toward safer streets.

Ready to ride or run?

 Run?A pair of 5Ks for the next two weekends, with Scope for Hope and a Lee County Medical Society Foundation run on March 16, followed by a Marlins 5K in Fort Myers and a Baker Park 5K in Naples March 23. Details at ftmyerstrackclub.com, 3dracinginc.com and gcrunner.org.

 Ride? There’s a Critical Mass ride in NE Lee Friday night (http://www.meetup.com/Biking-SWFL/events/), and a Miracle Limbs Courage in Motion Benefit ride on Saturday, offering10-, 28-, 42- and 6-mile rides from North Collier Regional Park (active.com). The following weekend brings the annual Pedal and Play in Paradise in Punta Gorda, with 15-, 30- and 62-mile routes plus a Mystery Tour Sunday, plus a City Manager’s Tour Saturday.

 Both? Upcoming events include:

·         Saturday, May 11: Cape Coral Sprint Tri (trifind.com)

·         Saturday, May 18: Life’s a Beach Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)

·         Sunday, June 2: 33rd Annual Fitness Challenge Triathlon, Naples (trifind.cm)

·         Sunday, June 9: Heartland Sprint and Olympic Tri, Sebring (trifind.com)

·         Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)

·         Registration is open for this year’s Galloway Captiva Tri on Sept. 7-8, which offers a new format this go-round with the sprint race on Saturday morning and the kids’ events Sunday morning. Details at www.gearedup.biz/captiva-triathlon.

·         Willing to drive? Check trifind.com or active.com for tris around the state.

# # #

Ken Gooderham writes this on behalf of BikeWalkLee,a community coalition raising public awareness and advocating for complete streets in Lee County—streets that are designed, built, operated and maintained for safe and convenient travel for all users: pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Information, statistics and background online at www.BikeWalkLee.org.

 

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Rules of the road and pathway


Florida Weekly 'Outdoors' column, March 13, 2019
danMOSER
bikepedmoser@gmail.com

On a recent weekday morning cycling commute, I was pleased to see so many folks out with me on foot and bike. My route took me through various parts of town and on a variety of facilities, including bike lanes, shared use paths, local and major roads with no bike accommodation, and even a short stretch of sidewalk along Cleveland Avenue. Sidewalks and Cleveland Avenue are two places I do my best to avoid but it’s sometimes impossible.

In most cases my fellow commuters and those out for recreation and exercise were behaving appropriately but there were some examples of bad conduct, including one young man who blew by me on North Colonial Linear Trail at well over a reasonable speed. Worse yet, he was on a loud, gas-powered bike, making it illegal as well as obnoxious and dangerous. Here are safety points I consider most important.

¦ Pedestrians — The definition also includes anyone using assistive wheeled devices (wheelchairs, motorized or not), in-line skater, skateboarder and stand-up scooters. I consider pedestrian safety and access as the highest priority. There are still many laws that pertain to them. When sidewalks are available and accessible pedestrians must use them; when sidewalks are not available pedestrians must walk facing/against traffic off the road if conditions allow; and when crossing the street outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk, pedestrians must not obstruct traffic.

¦ Road cyclists — Both human-powered and electric bike users (but not gas-powered as those require the operator to have a valid driver’s license) are legally defined as vehicle operators and are subject to the majority of the rights and responsibilities as other vehicle operators, even though a driver’s license is not required. Florida law requires riding as far right as practicable (not in a gutter or on the edge) but any lane less than 14 feet in width is considered too narrow for a motor vehicle to safely share with a bicycle so in those cases (99 percent of our roads have lanes much narrower that 14 feet) the cyclist may use any portion of the lane and not be guilty of illegally obstructing traffic. Clearly, riding with the flow of other traffic and obeying regulatory signs and traffic signals are required.

¦ Cyclists as pedestrians — Cyclists operating on a pathway or sidewalk where not prohibited by local ordinance (we have very few that are off limits) have the same access and duties as pedestrians but must provide audible warning when passing. Navigating safely around other pathway users includes operating at appropriate speeds for conditions and always yielding to true pedestrians. While it may seem counter-intuitive, operating legally and properly on the road is safer than on a sidewalk and even on many shared use paths, primarily because of motorists’ propensity to overshoot stop signs, creating potential conflicts at every driveway and side street.

¦ Motorists — The operator of any vehicle that requires a driver’s license is considered a motorist, even vehicles that aren’t a typical car or truck. There are many traffic laws but in my opinion one that says it all states: “Notwithstanding other provisions of this chapter, every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian or any person propelling a human-powered vehicle and give warning when necessary and exercise proper precaution upon observing any child or any obviously confused or incapacitated person.”

To learn more about this and similar matters visit bikewalklee.blogspot.com. ¦

 
- Dan Moser is a long-time bicycle/pedestrian advocate and traffic safety professional who cycles, runs and walks regularly for transportation, recreation and fitness. Contact him at bikepedmoser@gmail.com and 334-6417. 

For Lee County cycling and tri events visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL). The Florida Bicycle Association (floridabicycle.org) is your source for statewide happenings. BikeWalkLee’s blog site has all the information you’ll need to stay abreast of advocacy efforts in Southwest Florida as well as statewide and nationally.






Monday, March 11, 2019

March 11: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Saturday, March 16: Scope for Hope 5K run and 2-mile walk. 8:00 a.m., CenturyLink Sports Complex, Fort Myers (ftmyerstrackclub.com)
  • Saturday, March 16: Lee County Medical Society Foundation 2019 Fun Run, 5K run, 2K walk, 8:45 a.m., Lakes Park, Fort Myers. (3dracinginc.com)
  • Saturday, March 23: The Inaugural Marlins 5K run or walk, begins and ends at Marlins Brewhouse on Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers (3dracinginc.com
  • Saturday, March 23: Baker Park 5K, Naples (gcrunner.org
  • Saturday, April 6: The Fast and the Furriest 5K, Gulf Coast Humane Society, Hammond Stadium Fort Myers (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 6: 10K Run for the Music, Artis-Naples, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 13: Wellfit Girls Hop to the Top, 5K timed run and fun run, and 1 mile walk, North Collier Regional Park (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 20: One Human Race 5K, Golden Gate High School, Naples (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 27: Friends of Foster Children Sunshine 5K, CCPS Admin Center, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tropicool 5K, Olde Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:

  • Friday, March 15: NE-Lee Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7 p.m. at the Winn-Dixie, 14600 Palm Beach Blvd. Lights required, helmets recommended (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, March 16: Miracle Limbs Courage in Motion Benefit Bike Ride, 10-, 28-, 42- and 6-mile rides, North Collier Regional Park (active.com)
  • Sunday, March 17: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • March 22-23: Pedal & Play in Paradise, 15-, 30- and 62-mile routes plus a Mystery Tour Sunday, plus a City Manager’s Tour Saturday (pedalandplayinparadise.com/
  • Sunday, March 23: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Friday, March 29: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7 p.m., start at 7:30 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, March 30: Saturday Slow Roll 8 a.m. meet-up at 2160 McGregor Blvd. Recommended for inexperienced/young riders. Distance is 6 miles, includes group ride instruction. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, March 31: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tour de Femme Florida, ladies-only ride, multiple distances, presented by Gulf Coast Velo Cycling Club (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:
  • Saturday, May 11: Cape Coral Sprint Tri. The race features a 1/4 mile swim from the Yacht Club Beach, 11 mile bike ride and a 5k run through the beautiful, historic area of Southeast Cape Coral. (trifind.com)
  • Saturday, May 18: Life’s a Beach Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 2: 33rd Annual Fitness Challenge Triathlon, Naples (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 9: Heartland Sprint and Olympic Tri, Sebring (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.









Monday, March 4, 2019

March 4: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Saturday, March 9: The Yo Taco Shrimp Run 5K. In conjunction with the 61st annual Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival, we are proud to announce the return of The Yo Taco Shrimp Run 5k, presented by Cypress Lake High School Athletic Booster Club. 8 a.m, Fort Myers Beach (active.com)
  • Saturday, March 16: Scope for Hope 5K run and 2-mile walk. 8 a.m., CenturyLink Sports Complex, Fort Myers (ftmyerstrackclub.com)
  • Saturday, March 16: Lee County Medical Society Foundation 2019 Fun Run, 5K run, 2K walk, Lakes Park, Fort Myers. (3dracinginc.com)
  • Saturday, March 23: The Inaugural Marlins 5K run or walk, begins and ends at Marlins Brewhouse on Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers (3dracinginc.com
  • Saturday, March 23: Baker Park 5K, Naples (gcrunner.org
  • Saturday, April 6: The Fast and the Furriest 5K, Gulf Coast Humane Society, Hammond Stadium Fort Myers (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 6: 10K Run for the Music, Artis-Naples, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 13: Wellfit Girls Hop to the Top, 5K timed run and fun run, and 1 mile walk, North Collier Regional Park (gcrunner.org)
  • Saturday, April 20: One Human Race 5K, Golden Gate High School, Naples (active.com)
  • Saturday, April 27: Friends of Foster Children Sunshine 5K, CCPS Admin Center, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tropicool 5K, Olde Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:
  • Sanibel Critical Mass Ride | Photo: special to the News-Press
    Saturday, March 9: Sanibel Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7:30 p.m. at Jerry’s Shopping Center, 1700 Periwinkle Way, on Sanibel. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, March 10: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • March 9-10: Royal Palm Challenge, 32- or 42-mile bonus ride Saturday (new), with the traditional RPC rides Sunday of 15, 40, 62 and 80 miles. Full support, swag and more. (calusariders.org)
  • Friday, March 15: NE-Lee Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7 p.m. at the Winn-Dixie, 14600 Palm Beach Blvd. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, March 16: Miracle Limbs Courage in Motion Benefit Bike Ride, 10-, 28-, 42- and 6-mile rides, North Collier Regional Park (active.com)
  • Sunday, March 17: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • March 22-23: Pedal & Play in Paradise, 15-, 30- and 62-mile routes plus a Mystery Tour Sunday, plus a City Manager’s Tour Saturday (pedalandplayinparadise.com/
  • Sunday, March 23: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Friday, March 29: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7 p.m., start at 7:30 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com)
  • Saturday, March 30: Saturday Slow Roll 8 a.m. meet-up at 2160 McGregor Blvd. Recommended for inexperienced/young riders. Distance is 6 miles, includes group ride instruction. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, March 31: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. All levels, all bikes, leaves from Fort Myers Trek store at 7:30 a.m. on a different route each week (mostly on bike paths). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, so helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. (meetup.com)
  • Sunday, May 5: Tour de Femme Florida, ladies-only ride, multiple distances, presented by Gulf Coast Velo Cycling Club (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:
  • Saturday, May 11: Cape Coral Sprint Tri. The race features a 1/4 mile swim from the Yacht Club Beach, 11 mile bike ride and a 5k run through the beautiful, historic area of Southeast Cape Coral. (trifind.com)
  • Saturday, May 18: Life’s a Beach Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 2: 33rd Annual Fitness Challenge Triathlon, Naples (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 9: Heartland Sprint and Olympic Tri, Sebring (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.