Paving the (Cyclist) Way
Just picture it…a day when we can safely cycle to our cheap Southwest flight.
As of today, we’re half way there.
If you’re an avid bicyclist—or even occasional rider—you know we have a way to go on that first part.
Yes, there have been great advancements in recent years, most notably on the Cooper River Bridge, where traffic-free lanes are in constant use.
Still, in many parts of the area, bicycling is often synonymous with a continual fear of being barreled over by CARTA.
Progress doesn’t come easily, and bicycling is no exception.
But it is coming, and we’re glad to see a growing number of local influencers who are working to make Charleston a truly bicycle-friendly area.
They’re people like City Councilmember Mike Seekings who bikes so often his car has become an afterthought. He’s pushing to get a bike and pedestrian lane on the West Ashley Bridge (which will happen, he assures us). And to speed up improvements to our segment of The East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile stretch of trails that—when complete—will include 90 contiguous miles in Charleston County.
There’s also Tom Bradford, acting director of Charleston Moves. He’ll be leading a “Battery2Beach” ride this Sunday (everyone’s invited), when riders starting at Isle of Palms and Folly Beach will converge on the Battery.
The reason? To show that residents really, really want a full route that’s both safe and easy to navigate.
“I’m an experienced bicyclist, and even I’m afraid in some places,” Bradford said. “A lot of people would like to bike, but in many places we simply don’t have the option to do it.”
Of course, as we discussed in a story last July, a growing number of locals are indeed opting to commute on two wheels instead of four. And there are some roadways that are both safe and easy to navigate.
So, dear reaiders, we look to you. Where should one go to enjoy a great bike ride? And what do you think needs to happen to make Charleston truly safe for drivers and cyclists alike?
Story by: Heather Mueller
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Cant wait to be a part of making a statement to Charleston about what Progressive culture really is… AJ
I don’t think it’s helpful to target CARTA and public transit. Both bicycles and transit are important options. Of course CARTA put racks on their buses years ago and they get a lot of use.
All of the cyclists injured that I’ve heard of where hit by privately owned vehicles.
CARTA’s drivers are among the most experienced and aware on the road. Transit drivers make contact with a lot of people in their work and they’re generally pretty decent people.
Great article! My husband just got a tri-bike, and it’s really hard to find places to ride. Charleston definitely doesn’t cater to the biker or walker, but I’m hopeful this will change.
Mt. P. is well laid out for cycling and has bike lanes on most major road ways, even out to the beaches. And from downtown, the city was nice enough to add a bike lane on the bridge. Don’t fear it…get over it.
Charlie…how do we get involved with these organizations or people that are trying to bring safe biking routes to Charleston?
Hi Ron!
If your schedule permits, I would recommend joining the Battery2Beach ride this Sunday. Bicyclists can join at any point on the route (I’m planning to jump in at Old Village). Information and maps are at http://www.Battery2Beach.org.
Or, check out CharlestonMoves.org and call them at 579-4100. The organization sponsors a number of programs throughout the year and is always looking for more supporters. Hope this helps!