To the editor:
Re: "'Ghost Bicycle' memorializes late cyclist and teacher," April 25.
Though I am saddened by the death of Amy Hurn, I enjoyed the article on the "ghost bike" memorial that was placed at the intersection where she died. Unfortunately, the headline is incorrect for continuation of the article on page 4, namely "Grocery store owner has seen cyclists illegally cross intersection." The body of the article states that "He [the grocery store owner] has seen- cyclists cross the busy street against the light." As this location only has pedestrian-controlled crossing signals, it is perfectly legal for a driver or cyclist to cross 12th Avenue any time there is a break in the traffic. The headline is also insensitive since it suggests that Amy Hurn may have been responsible for her own death.
Though we don't know the details of the crash, it would be more appropriate to focus on the motor vehicle traffic. The store owner estimates that cars reach speeds of 70 km/hr on this section of 12th Avenue. I have heard of cyclists who had close calls with vehicles running a red light at this intersection.
I urge drivers to slow down and pay attention and I also urge the police to install a red light camera at this intersection and to enforce speed limits. This would be a really decent memorial for Amy Hurn.
Arno Schortinghuis, Vancouver
