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Weaverville council endorses ‘Lenny’s Law’ concept to create bicycle safety zones
Summary
After moving and public testimony, the town council passed a resolution endorsing the concept of Lenny’s Law — local support that advocates hope will bolster a Western North Carolina coalition to seek state action establishing bicycle safety zones and increased fines.
Council heard emotional testimony from Maddie Barondo, who described the July 1, 2025 crash on NC‑251 that killed two cyclists and urged action to protect vulnerable road users. “In my grief, I am advocating for changes to ensure that no one else has to experience what I am going through,” Barondo said, and asked the council to endorse bicycle safety zones known locally as ‘Lenny’s Law.’
Adam Smith, chair of a regional parks and enrichment committee, described the proposed zone as similar to a school or construction zone: additional posted signage and statutory authority for higher penalties in specified stretches. He said the resolution seeks only to endorse the concept and build regional momentum for state action. Council members discussed existing state programs (the “Watch for Me” bicycle safety initiative), enforcement constraints outside town limits, and the limits of current state law. The council voted to adopt a resolution endorsing the concept; the motion carried with one recorded no vote.
