To the editor:
Re: Cycling Fatality
I was extremely sorry to hear of the cyclist fatality on Chambers Street this Sunday. Sad as it, is it was no shock to hear it.
I have been biking daily on these streets for over 30 years.
The protected lane that travels the length of the West Side is a marvel and should be unquestionably safe.
However, in the BPC area where bikes, pedestrians and cars intersect it has always been a danger. Crossing these intersections at the green light when cars make a turn from West Street is not for the faint of heart.
My friends and family never hesitate to say how frightened they are of cycling here, and I am disheartened by the city’s low regard for bicycle safety.
To illustrate my point and to keep this woman’s memory alive, I am posting two versions of cycling – The first is one of the most dangerous sections of road on Church at the WTC site (filmed in 2013).
The second is a dream of how it could be, and as it is in many parts of Europe
I hope that attitudes and perceptions can soon change and that no one else has to die needlessly on these city streets. There is room for us all.
-Esther Regelson