Re: ‘Man revs up scooter opposition,' June 5 Gazette:
I would like to point out some inconsistencies in the logic behind a blind ban of electric-powered vehicles on the trails. I fully understand the concerns raised, but do not agree that it is the scooters that have a monopoly on posing dangers to other trail users.
I am first and foremost a father, and as such, appreciate the safety that is necessary for families with their children on St Albert's trail system. There are many types of electric assisted systems available now. I myself use a system that simply adds to my strength and does not provide much speed on its own (I have a damaged knee, ankle and back). This system extends my ability to ride. So are we saying that an in-line skater that takes up half the width of the trail, potentially moving at 20 kilometres per hour is less dangerous than other devices that travel at the same speed?
Mr. Johnson stated in the article that "what happens when two 12-year-olds are riding side by side?" This is a very poor argument. It does not matter what age or what they are riding, it is a matter of riding safely. I can use this same flawed logic to paint any picture I want! How about two teenagers riding dangerously fast side by side on mountain bikes going around blind corners? How about two adults riding dangerously fast side by side on mountain bikes going around blind corners? How about two soccer moms riding dangerously fast side by side on mountain bikes going around blind corners? How about two in-line skaters skating dangerously fast side by side going around blind corners? You get the picture on the failed logic?
The trail system should be used by all in a safe manner. Most countries regulate electric vehicles by top speed. Past a certain limit they are regulated as licensed vehicles. As for biking in St. Albert in general, this is an extremely unsafe city. I am 50 years old and have been an avid biker all my life. I avoid the trails because it is not a fun place to ride and I recognize that it is too crowded and dangerous for the pedestrians. I do occasionally take my electric-assisted bike onto the trail, but it is with trepidation and care. I do not travel any faster than those healthier than myself on normal bikes. The fact that it has electric assist is irrelevant. What is relevant is common sense courtesy for others on the trail.
To Mr. Johnson, please understand that I am challenging your logic, not outright defying it. I agree that understanding the issue and making sound decisions are important. I do agree that electric-powered vehicles must be considered in a good rule base for the trails. What I would like to see is something that makes sense and can be enforced. Part of good enforcement is the option for alternatives for riders.
As mentioned earlier, this is not a bicycle friendly city. My electric system allows me to commute from St. Albert to Edmonton for work, Monday to Friday. I feel safe once I enter Edmonton. So if city council reacts with limited facts rather than carefully thinking through the issue, St. Albert will have fewer options for its citizens and less appeal than sister cities. The world is trying to move to more cycling. I highly recommend planning for bike trails or lanes if the bylaws restrict their use on other trails. Also, most cities ban bikes of any kind on the sidewalks and I fully endorse this as it is dangerous for pedestrians. Thus is the basic difference with the trails. How about we just calm down and share?
William Little, St. Albert
