Hi Charlie,
Thanks for your thoughtful e-mail. BCNM has worked to end partial paving by the NMDOT for a long time. It’s a horrible practice and we have not had much luck.
Bicyclist advocates have tried multiple times to lobby the Legislators to pass an enhanced penalty Vulnerable Users bill, to alas, no success. It’s my understanding that Senator Michael Sanchez, a defense litigator and powerful Senate leader, squashes the enhanced penalty bills when introduced.
BCNM plans to educate legislators and decision makers on the Complete Streets idea in 2016 and introduce a bill in 2017.
I am glad that you are interested in attending this important rally!
Diane
I've read and looked at both attachments, the letter is very good, although I see no mention of tougher penalties for motorists, distracted drivers, DUI's who hit, permanently disable and kill bicyclists in our state. In light of the recent tragic accident where a distracted driver hit Nathan Barkocy & Stephen Williamson. Earl Gage was hit not long ago as well. The drivers seemed to only receive a slap on the hand and a reckless driving ticket.
Wouldn't this also be a perfect time to present another letter that addresses this problem also? Maybe there's not enough time to draft another letter, I'm not good at this sort of thing, but if we have a big turn out the timing would seem to be right to address this very important issue as well? I plan on attending regardless….
Thanks,Charlie Drysdale
Bicyclist and Motorcyclist Day at the Legislature: Feb. 13, 2016
Calling all bicyclists to Make your Voice heard at a Rally at the Roundhouse!
Meet at Bike N Sport, 524 W Cordova Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87505, at 11:15 am February 13, 2016, for free pizza and drinks, courtesy of BikeABQ and BCNM.
Ride to the NM State Capitol Roundhouse, 490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501 led by BCNM board members for a rally with motorcyclists, starting at 12:15.
BCNM will provide information on Complete Streets and NMDOT’s fatal policy of Partial Paving for cyclists to leave at her/his legislator’s office, preferably with a note that she / he would like to meet after the session ends.
Please wear your BCNM, BikeABQ, or TORGV gear!
Rail Runner southbound starts from the South Capitol station at 3:32 pm, or 8:17 pm, if you’d like to have dinner in Santa Fe.