Columbus takes another step forward...

Download Proposed Bike Law

I'll take a look at this myself over the next few days, but City Council has been working hard to revise the Columbus City Codes regarding bikes and bring them in line with Ohio Revised Code. A number of active, local cyclists were asked to review the initial proposals. From what Jeff has said, there were quite a bit of comments received-all showing different ideas and perspectives and all (hopefully) having a very positive effect on the changes in our city code. I'm very please to see to see the city reaching out to the people who have the best knowledge and understanding of real life conditions on the street. 

The city summarizes the proposal by saying:

The purpose of this legislation is to lay a foundation for the development 
of policy, rules and regulations pertaining to sidewalks and bikeways.  This foundation 
includes the consideration of an evolving understanding of complete streets, the 
importance of alternate means of transportation, the promotion of better community 
health, and improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.  This legislation further 
establishes a requirement for bikeways associated with the development of land and 
codifies the requirement to provide sidewalks along private streets.  Furthermore, this 
legislation creates a mechanism for a monetary donation to be made by a developer when 
circumstances preclude the reasonable and practical construction of sidewalks and 
bikeways. 

I look forward to reading through this myself over the coming week and offering some comments. 

Council is holding a meeting this Thursday, December 4, at 5:30 PM in their chambers located at 90 W Broad St. to discuss the proposed changes.