To the Editor,
As a person who regularly bikes between Comox and Courtenay, I read Mayor Wells鈥� June 21 letter about the proposed 6th Street Active Transportation Bridge with interest.
I can certainly attest to the need for improved cycling and walking pathways on both sides of the river. However, on my frequent rides back and forth between the two communities, the current 5th Street Bridge crossing is the least of my worries. It鈥檚 the section on the east side of the river between the bridge and Back Road that feels like I am taking my life in my hands every time.
Cycling through the tangle of major intersections, turns, parking lots, bus stops, inaccessible walk-signal buttons, and erratic bike lane demarcations is an anxiety-riddled undertaking. Without the addition of better bicycle pathways through this traffic jungle, I don鈥檛 see how a new bridge will make much difference.
The bridge is the easy part. It鈥檚 what happens after you cross it heading eastward that鈥檚 the horror show, where improved cycling infrastructure is desperately needed. I know this problem has been identified in Courtenay鈥檚 2019 Cycle Network Plan. Let鈥檚 prioritize that.
Jane Dawson
