Community rallies for urgent bike safety changes on Iris Avenue

During a recent city council meeting, members of the transportation advisory board and community advocates voiced strong support for proposed changes to Iris Avenue aimed at enhancing safety for cyclists and pedestrians. A representative from the community cycles organization presented 78 letters collected during Bike to Work Day and an annual member party, revealing that 77 of the letters favored alternatives A or B for the redesign of Iris Avenue, while only one supported alternative C.

Community members emphasized the urgency of implementing these changes, citing safety concerns and the need for improved infrastructure. One resident highlighted the importance of preserving tree cover and reducing the risk of rear-end collisions, advocating for options A or B as more cost-effective solutions compared to alternatives C or D. Another resident, a parent, expressed the need for a safe route for children traveling to preschool, urging the council to act swiftly.

A 13-year-old resident also joined the chorus of voices calling for safer biking conditions, underscoring the community's commitment to improving local transportation safety. Many speakers noted that options A and B would not only enhance safety but could also be completed more quickly and at a lower cost.

The meeting concluded with additional speakers, including Chuck Leaf, president of Naropa University, who noted the institution's upcoming 50th anniversary, further emphasizing the community's long-standing commitment to local development and safety initiatives. The council is expected to consider these recommendations as they move forward with discussions on the Iris Avenue redesign.