Two weeks ago, cycling on Parksville city streets, I was twice nearly hit by vehicles. In both cases, the drivers were apologetic and vowed to be more careful. I am asking the people of Oceanside to do a few things to help me and my fellow cyclists:
1. Next time you buy a vehicle, consider something a bit smaller. Vehicles are bigger and heavier than they used to be, making it harder to see cyclists and pedestrians, and making accident outcomes worse.
2. If you know someone who should no longer be driving a vehicle, speak up!
3. Consider leaving your vehicle at home, and using active transportation: walk, bike, skateboard, e-bike, whatever. Good for your health, reduces traffic congestion, good for the world.
4. Support improvements in active transportation infrastructure: paths, sidewalks, traffic calming. Qualicum Beach's infrastructure is OK. Parksville's is poor.
Allan Vermeulen
Parksville
Parksville
