AG: Raleigh is considering bicycle lanes on Hillsborough Street.  Is there really a debate about this? With all the students riding their bicycles near North Carolina State University, bike lanes are a must.  Write, email or call your city counsel members to let them know what you think.  Here is a  letter by Lori McDaniel, a nearby resident and business owner:

Dear Council Members:

I understand the issue of bike lanes will be discussed at the Public Works meeting tomorrow, and I am writing to urge you to support Raleigh’s growing cycling population with a positive view toward bike lanes. Studies have been done around the world and across the U.S. in cities like ours that illustrate the many ways a strong cycling culture benefits the community. Please consider the following:

 ·         Cycling is an excellent form of physical activity, with significant health benefits and a means by which to combat our state’s increasing obesity problem.

 ·         Cycling is an economically efficient activity, as it lowers transport costs through reduced fuel expenditure and individual contributions to congestion.

 ·         Cycling enhances the livability and social health of communities.

 ·         By offering an alternative to motorized transport, cycling presents an effective method of reducing transport related greenhouse gas emissions.

 ·         For many, a reasonable cycling distance is 3 to 4 miles, as it takes about a half hour or less to pedal. It is estimated that 10 percent of urban automobile trips can reasonably be shifted to non-motorized transport.

 ·         A short cycling trip can replace a longer car trip. When people shift to active transportation for more trips, they reduce their total vehicle mileage by avoiding discretionary trips.

Especially in an area like Hillsborough Street – with its high student population and densely populated surrounding neighborhoods – incorporating bike lanes is a must. This will reduce congestion, require less parking, provide greater access to local businesses, and ensure the safety of bike and pedestrian commuters.

 Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this important issue.