Groups try to work out parkway safety issues
| Thursday, Nov 19 2009 10:12 PM
Last Updated Thursday, Nov 19 2009 10:12 PM
The 30-mile trail that is one of Bakersfield's most popular outdoor attractions brings bikers, walkers, joggers and even horses together, but how to keep them from clashing was the discussion at a Thursday night meeting at Franklin School.
More than 50 bikers, walkers and even a horse rider met peacefully to figure out possible solutions and rules relating to the Kern River Parkway.
Among the most focused topic: safety.
"We want people out there using it for multipurpose," said Dianne Hoover, director of the city's Department of Recreation and Parks. "And we want to be able to do it in a safe and courteous manner."
The path, built using federal money, is required to be open to pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users and others. City staff met with various groups before, but the meeting was a chance to get all of Bakersfield involved, Hoover said.
A dozen or so bikes leaned against the auditorium walls as the crowd moved into three discussion groups -- one for multi-user guidelines, one for maintenance issues and another for signs.
Among some suggestions:
* Signs posted stating "speed limit 15 mph," "share the trail," "respect other trail users," "6-inch dog leash on all dogs," and "when passing, look behind you then give an audible warning before passing."
* Calendar of events and posted reservations for path usage.
* Striping and markers along the pavement, including directional safety and courtesy signs.
Bob Braley came to the meeting to represent the horse riders, minus his horse. He worried about his safety when he intersects the path while riding horseback. His solution: signs to warn bikers about the horses.
"Twice I've been cut off and my horse got spooked," Braley said. "I can't control my horse after that. It's a concern for us horse riders."
Most of the projects will need money to complete, something that is scare these days, said parks superintendent Darin Budak. Striping, for example, costs $2 per foot.
"It's just a matter of funding, and that's what it comes down to," Budak said.
The suggestions and comments will be forwarded to the city manager. Possible City Council action will be required. Suggestions could could then be forwarded to a committee.
