The Kalamazoo City Commission says five feet is probably safer than three when it comes to cars passing bikes. It’s considering a proposal that’s meant to protect cyclists by giving them some space as cars move by.
The city traffic engineer had recommended a three-foot passing zone, saying five feet might be hard to accommodate on some streets. But on Tuesday a majority of commissioners agreed that three feet between a bike and a passing car was not enough.
Commissioner Shannon Sykes says sometimes motorists might have to wait to pass a bike. She says while she recognizes that’s inconvenient, it might also be necessary.
“You know, if it’s one of my children on the street, I’m going to tell you, I want you to give them five feet. It makes me really nervous to think that you would not,” she said.
Of five commissioners present, Vice Mayor Don Cooney cast the lone ‘no’ vote on the five-foot proposal. Cooney says he’s concerned about how the law will apply to narrow streets.
“Given the situation of our community, for me three feet is as good as we can do right now,” he said.
The commission plans a final vote on the five-foot passing distance between cars and bikes at its next meeting.
On Tuesday the Board also approved another plan aimed at making Kalamazoo friendlier to non-motor traffic. It’s asked staff to write a “Complete Streets” policy to move toward better access for all who use the roads. The commission is expected to review a draft in the spring.
