County Survey Shows Long Term Increase in Bicycle Ridership and Safety Practices
Published Monday, January 31, 2011
According to a multi-year observation survey of bicyclist behavior by the County Health Services Agency, bicycle ridership in Santa Cruz County has gone up 26% between 2003 and 2010. And, those using two wheels for transportation appear to be slowly learning how to ride more safely.
With the help of dozens of volunteers, the Community Traffic Safety Coalition (a project of the Health Services Agency) observed the number of bicyclists and their behavior at 41 sites countywide. And, once again, more cyclists were counted, especially young adults and children, in what could portend a rise in the appeal of two-wheeled transportation.
Increased cycling helps address a number of local issues, from traffic congestion to obesity, and the numbers reflect a groundswell of support for cycling. If we build facilities for it, bicycle use is going to rise exponentially over the next decade in Santa Cruz County. That's good news for human and environmental health and will have a positive impact on traffic congestion for those who still choose to drive.
Moreover, cyclists appear to be slowly learning how to behave more safely on the roads. In the survey, helmet use has slowly climbed since 2003 to 45% of those observed, while riding on sidewalks (generally considered unsafe and often illegal) has decreased. The number of those riding in the same direction as traffic and stopping at stop lights and signs has not changed significantly in the last three years, though some positive gains were seen among children, teens, and young adults.
According to health educator and Community Traffic Safety Coalition staff member Theresia Rogerson, the key is continuing to educate cyclists, especially youth. "We need to educate young cyclists on their rights and responsibilities. As adult cyclists, we need to exemplify good behavior. Cycling can be a healthy and safe way to get around if you follow the rules of the road."
For more information about bicycle safety and related local programs, visit www.sctrafficsafety.org/safe_info.html.