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Bikeways committee plans Chronicle insert and weighs trail‑safety messaging amid crosswalk-law confusion
Summary
Committee members agreed to draft an illustrated article for the Cape Cod Chronicle focused on bikeway signs, etiquette (four‑foot passing rule), and map distribution; they debated whether to recommend 'walk your bike' signage because of confusion over how Massachusetts law treats cyclists in crosswalks.
The Harwich Bikeways Committee discussed a summer outreach push May 19, aiming to supply an illustrated article and photographs to the Cape Cod Chronicle’s summer insert to inform seasonal visitors and residents about local bikeways.
Members proposed visual elements — for example, photographing a 4‑foot passing scenario and showing bikeway signs — and agreed the article should emphasize trail etiquette and safety without issuing legal directives. Richard Siegel offered to draft a basic version for committee review pending the Chronicle’s deadline.
A substantive part of the conversation centered on confusion around crosswalk signage that reads “walk your bike.” Committee members noted that signs recommending that action are common, but that the underlying crosswalk law refers to pedestrians; the committee worried that advising people to “walk your bike” in a public insert could be perceived as giving legal advice or create controversy. Members agreed to focus on clear, practical safety guidance (for example, stopping and making eye contact with motorists, using bells and audible warnings, single‑filing when needed) rather than legal interpretation.
On maintenance and wayfinding, the group identified faded crossings and overgrown intersections where pavement markings are no longer visible and asked members to document problem locations with photos and forward them to Link in the DPW for repainting; one unopened box of trail maps (discussed as approximately 2,000) will be redistributed and members volunteered to restock map boxes through June. The committee also previewed seasonal events including Tour de Barnstable on May 31 and sought volunteer bike marshals for local races.
What happens next: Richard Siegel will draft the Chronicle piece for committee review; members will compile photos and a short sign/explanation package and will document maintenance needs with photos for DPW follow‑up. The committee will continue outreach and map distribution ahead of summer trail usage.
