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General

There has been a lot of misunderstanding of the new bicycle safety bill. It is important that we properly communicate the purpose of the bill to our members, the bicycling community and those around us.

A summary of the legislation: PASSING

The bill gives motorists more freedom to safely pass a bicyclist by allowing them to cross the centerline when safe to do so. By allowing three feet passing distance, it creates a safer environment on the road.

LANE POSITION

Clarifying language gives bicyclists the ability to ride as far right as is safe. Also on one-way roads with more than one lane, bicyclists may also ride as far left as is safe.

MORE THAN ONE RIDER

The bill clarifies that bicyclists may pass one another or ride side-by-side if they are not impeding the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.

ANTI-HARASSMENT

Language in the bill makes throwing an object towards a bicyclist a class 2 misdemeanor and driving towards a bicyclist in a dangerous manner a careless driving offense.

The legislation provides legal rights to bicyclists that were not previously law, but should not change how we ride or interact with other users on the road. It does not give bicyclists the right to block traffic, to impede the flow of traffic, or riding abreast when there is traffic on the road. It is important the bicyclists continue to ride in a courteous manner with other users of the road. Many bicyclists and motorist have misinterpreted this new legislation. It is important that we carefully communicate the proper purpose of this legislation.

The bill was been signed by the governor and is now law.

How to find your elected officials: Click here 

Bike Jeffco

1. C470 Reconstruction - The contract has been awarded to replace a total of approximately 6 miles in various sections of the C470 trail. Work will begin in July and completion is expected in 12-15 weeks.
2. Lookout Mountain Signs - Signs have been ordered to mark the Lookout Mountain climb similar to the famous climbs in Europe. The signs are sponsored by Bike Jeffco providing mileage and altitude information. Look for them in the near future.
3. Clear Creek County- Great news for those who ride Squaw Pass Road! Clear Creek County is planning to add shoulders to the portion of Squaw Pass Road that is maintained by the County. This will be from the county line for approximately 6 miles where CDOT takes over maintenance. The project is budgeted for 2011. Clear Creek County is becoming pro-bicycle and look for good things to happen in the future.
4. Jefferson County- Jefferson County is preparing a Bike/Pedestrian Plan for future growth in the county. This is wonderful news as no plan currently exists. This is a major step that will be used as a planning tool for new construction in Jefferson County. We will provide additional information as it becomes available.