An aerial view of the new Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial/Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton Bridge over the Potomac River. (Courtesy of the Maryland Transportation Authority) A proposal to allow cyclists to cross the Potomac via the recently opened Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial/Senator Thomas ‘Mac’ Middleton Bridge is being rejected as too dangerous.
Cycling advocates from around the state described the proposal, which includes a light system warning motorists that a cyclist is on the bridge, as “ludicrous,” “unconscionable” and “malpractice.” Advocates say if the proposal moves forward, cycling enthusiasts would be unlikely to use the bridge because of safety concerns.
“It’s a highly dangerous proposal that will result in someone being killed,” said Jed Weeks, interim executive director and policy director of Bikemore, a Baltimore-based cycling advocacy group.
The organization typically focuses on issues in the Baltimore region.
“We felt this was like such a dangerous idea that we had to comment even though it is sort of out of our jurisdiction,” said Weeks.
The Maryland Transportation Authority, which operates the bridge, proposes allowing cyclists the full use of the far-right travel lanes on both the north- and southbound sides of the bridge. Cyclists entering the bridge would push a button triggering flashing lights meant to alert motorists to the presence of a cyclist.
The warning system would operate for 10 to 15 minutes to allow a crossing. The cyclist would continue to share the 12-foot-wide lane with motor vehicles.“So what we’re left with is a plan to flash a blinking light at drivers […]
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