By Carol Landsberg Santa Monica
I agree that walkers should stay off the bike paths (“Walking shouldn’t be allowed on path,” Aug. 21). It is unsafe and inconsiderate.
However, I wonder if David Pisarra has ever considered that many bikers also use the sidewalks and the walking paths? I have seen many near-collisions between bikes and walkers on the walking paths in Palisades Park and on the sidewalks all over Santa Monica — with the designated street bike paths less than 50 feet away. Bikers are usually moving much faster than the walkers and pose a great hazard to seniors and toddlers.
Bikers also ride two abreast on the designated street bike paths, making it dangerous for them and for the drivers trying to go by them in cars while staying in their designated right car lane.
Perhaps there needs to be consideration both ways, and tickets issued to those walkers and bikers who are in the wrong place.
Oh, yes, I just remembered, the police may be too busy watching the Palisades Park employees put out traps for the ground squirrels to do the ticketing. There were officers from three squad cars in the park (the other) morning, watching the traps be set!
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on August 23, 2007. Read the original PDF.