Dear Editor,
A few weeks ago I wrote about bikes being an excellent alternative means of transportation in many urban areas, but not in Hoboken. I alleged that many local riders don’t conform to New Jersey’s bike rules, and that local authorities don’t enforce bike regulations. Ironically, this evening (August 6) a cyclist riding on the sidewalk ran into my son. The accident occurred in front of Carlo’s Bakery, on Washington Street, right across the street from City Hall. Fortunately, my son was not injured, just shaken up. But the collision could have involved a small child, a senior citizen, or any other unwary citizen of our beloved city, with disastrous results.
When will Hoboken’s cyclists – deliverymen, recreational riders, and commuters – all abide by the regulations that were designed to protect pedestrians and riders alike? When will the City’s police begin to enforce cycling rules and apprehend violators? Common sense, good manners and the wish for a safe environment probably won’t be enough to motivate enforcement or compliance. Maybe change will come only through serious enforcement, with the issuance of summonses and imposition of fines. Think of the fines as a new revenue stream to help our tapped-out community. Bike-safety improvements would be a bonus.
Hobo Ken