Sunday, May 12, 2013

Keeping Chicago's Lakefront Trail Safe

I strongly believe that the Lakeshore Trail is one Chicago’s greatest treasures.  Eighteen miles long, the paved trail hugs beautiful Lake Michigan to the East and connects many of Chicago’s most popular attractions including Burnham Park, Soldier Field, Navy Pier, lakefront beaches, and the Waveland Clock Tower. It’s no wonder that during the summer months, the Lakeshore Trail is Chicago’s most popular destination!

Used by individuals who are running, walking, cycling, exercising their dogs or heading to the beach for various activities including swimming, volleyball, or sun-bathing, there’s no question that this path is truly multi-use. And that is where the trouble begins. 

With so many people sharing such a small space for multiple purposes, accidents happen.  And unfortunately, many of these are very serious.  As cyclists, whose speed can exceed 25mph, maneuver around runners and walkers it’s easy to image how small directional changes can end tragically. So how can we avoid these mishaps and protect the trail that we love so dearly?  BE PRESENT!

Be aware of others
Be patient
Reduce YOUR speed
Always signal directional changes
Expect the unexpected

In other words:

> CYCLISTS: Use the path during off-peak hours, slow down, and pass with caution.
> RUNNERS/WALKERS: Stay to the right and signal before stopping or turning.
> DOG WALKERS: Train your dog to walk/run at your immediate right while on leash.
> VENTI STARBUCKS and iPHONE carrying trail wreckers: Find-Park-Bench-Fast!

Stay safe everyone and enjoy the summer! 

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