Safety Wins: Wider Bike Lanes on Hwy 1
Today we’re excited to report a victory for the people of the Central Coast.
Nearly three miles of Highway 1 north of Piedras Blancas Lighthouse are due to be moved inland next year in response to coastal erosion. California Coastal Commission staff only recommended five foot wide paved shoulders for the new road, failing to fully utilize the opportunity to make this section of Highway 1 safe for riders of all abilities.
The Bicycle Coalition and our allies (including the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club, The Slabtown Rollers and even Caltrans) got involved, writing letters and testifying before the Commission about the many benefits of a wider paved shoulder:
- increased safety for bicyclists
- increased protection from distracted drivers
- building an infrastructure that supports the local economy, attracting visitors who tour our county by bike
- encouraging healthy lifestyle choices for local residents
In response to our efforts, the Commissioners voted against staff recommendation, approving a wider, safer, eight foot paved shoulder. We’re very excited about this result and will continue to keep an eye on this project which breaks ground in May 2015 and is expected to take three years to complete.
