I applaud John van Houten’s comments about the lack of support for cycling in the Ojai Valley. I am a long time resident and I have always been engaged by our community’s desire to preserve our quality of life and sustainability. As a cyclist I have been disappointed in our community’s lack of support.
I love to ride in the valley and have spent many hours putting many miles on my bike. It is a great way to get outdoors and improve my fitness, both physical and mental. I love the people of Ojai and enjoy the smiles and hellos along the bike path. I have also found drivers in the valley to be, for the most part, very friendly to cycling. Many have stopped [by the Ojai Trail] and let me cross with a smile and a wave. But I continue to ask myself why our local leaders have not taken steps to make cycling safer and to encourage more of our residents to cycle for health and for our environment.
As a regular cyclist, I often have to leave the bike path because it is full of those who are out for leisurely walks and family rides, which is an important activity. I get on the street so I am able to keep my pace without disrupting others. On the street I feel very vulnerable. I have had near misses with those who are backing out of driveways, drifting from their lanes, and just not being aware of others on the road.
It is unbelievable that there is no bike lane in the entire city. When I arrive at a destination there are few places to leave my bike while I shop or eat. I have entertained the idea of doing some of my shopping and errands on my bike, but these obstacles have kept me from embracing the practice.
The benefits of cycling are very positive, both to our environment and to our health. I can hardly believe that we do not have bicycle lanes, bicycle racks, and more community support for this healthy activity. It would be great if our community came together and worked to make some positive changes. If we want local shopping, maybe we should give some support and even rewards to those who cycle, walk, or use public transportation. Times are changing and we should continue to be forward thinkers in our community. We have some catching up to do and I propose we get serious about it.
Lana Hester, Mira Monte
e-mail Lanhest@sbcglobal.net
(Published in the Ojai Valley News, October 2009)
Comments (1)
Thanks for this important letter Lana!
Comment #1 Posted by Suza | February 5, 2010 10:37 PM