Adelaide Cyclists

Hi guys,

one of the discussions we've had in BISA lately is a wish to get feedback from the cycling community on the new 'Copenhagen lane' in Sturt St, where the ACC is undergoing a trial of a separated bike lane.


While it sounds good in theory, there's been a bit of criticism floating around that there are some design issues with it, particularly in respect to cars joining from side streets.

Apparently it's been planned as a "temporary trial" by the council, where they will evaluate its success after 6 months and decide whether to remove the separating infrastructure, or possibly extend to other spots.

So, what's people's feedback - is it working out, or having problems? Is it a good concept but badly implemented? (Perhaps due to the trial nature).

(I imagine the council will also seek feedback, but as a cycling advocacy organisation we'd like to get independent comments too to inform what position we take as well).

Any pics you've taken of the lane in action would be appreciated too.

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I'm with Joseph it is dangerous to cyclists and people getting out of cars cars leaving the side streets block it off while waiting to get out onto the road. Verdict: I will never ride in it

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As a regular user of West Tce/Sturt St, I love the fact that we now have a dedicated bike crossing on West Tce. On the downside, I have had quite a few near misses with traffic coming out of the side streets to turn onto Sturt St and vice versa. Maybe some modifications could be made like the buffer zone mentioned by PACC Matt? I quite like the idea of having this dedicated lane however I would rather ride with mainstream traffic than risk a run-in with a motorist who is only too eager to get across into the street without realising I'm there.

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Hi All Sturt Street Cyclists (and those interested in cycling in the City,

Stephen Janes, BISA's acting secretary, has today received a letter from the ACC inviting comments from BISA on the Sturt Street bike lane project. As previously mentioned this has been a trial. I believe that Adelaide City Council indicates in the letter that, if it becomes a permanent fixture, some of the currently 'painted on' lane markings etc may be rebuilt as 'solid' kerbing and so on. I understand that some have called for more warning devices for drivers approaching from side streets (perhaps 'speed bumps') so there may be scope for this!

I'm not sure what deadline we face for making a response but Stephen has offered to collate comments from BISA members as well as from this A/C discussion. So - on the assumption that he'll be able to do this - I'd like to suggest that you update any previous comments asap or perhaps make one if you haven't yet said anything on the subject.

BISA (and bicycle use generally) seems to be 'on a roll' with both levels of Gov't in SA so I'm sure any comments you make will be taken seriously by those instrumental in further developing the 'Copenhagen Lane' concept, either here in Sturt St, or elsewhere in the City (as some have suggested should be considered). I think we have to accept that this is a learning process for all involved (including bicycle users) and really support it as such if we are interested in seeing further development of the concept.
regards,
Sam Powrie,
BISA.

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Further to the April 23rd invitation above, I attach the letter from Adelaide City Council inviting comments on Sturt St traffic management changes (including the bike lanes). You'll see that the due date is 30th April. I understand that Stephen Janes will draw on comments posted on AC in putting in a submission from BISA. If you have further comments you'k like him to include please post them here asap or email him directly (see BISA web site for his address).
Sam.
Attachments:

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I reckon the new bike path on Sturt St is great - I ride in on it in the mornings - It feels much safer than riding on the other old style white line lanes (like on the other side of the road on the way home)

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