To the editor:
Re: “Bike path opponent cites victory for democracy,” Feb. 18.
I am tired of hearing only from the opposing side of the bike lanes, and that is why I have decided to write my letter. The majority of people I talk to are “for” the bike lanes, and the safe passage of all cyclists: commuters, pleasure riders, children, and towing our babies.
We see the lanes as an alternative to driving, environmentally better, adding value to our beautiful city, and a great alteration for the future. We have the same rights as drivers do, or for that matter, all pedestrian walking on sidewalks throughout the city. Bike lane fights have become all too common on
Facebook and any opposing remark is met with such disregard, aggression, and bullying.
As upsetting as these comments are, I appreciate them. Why? Because it just confirms how important it is that we have separate lanes for bikes, away from these people who drive cars (tons of steel that can do a lot of damage to or kill a cyclist).
For those mere hundreds who showed up at Kits beach a few months ago to protest the bike lanes in the park and around Kits point, there were thousands of us pro-bike lanes non-activists relaxing at home. However, we have been silent for far too long and it comes across that we don’t exist. My fear is if we don’t start speaking up, the opposing side will gain too much momentum and influence. Please speak up!
Kelly Mitchell,
Vancouver
