Bicycle-Pedestrian - Smart Access 2001

To increase the effectiveness of the 1995 Bicycle-Pedestrian Total Access 2000 Act. The intent of that act was to encourage bicycling and walking as energy efficient, non-polluting modes of transportation and to significantly increase the percentage of total trips performed by walking or bicycling by Fiscal Year 2000. The 1995 Act intended that needed bicycling and pedestrian improvements receive a reasonable degree of funding from all transportation funds under the control of the state. The Smart Access 2001 bill would create and provide funding for an Office of Bicycle and Pedestrian Affairs, with a Director and staff with the oversight authority to implement the Bicycle-Pedestrian Plan mandated by the 1995 Total Access Act. The Smart Access 2001 bill would also require a minimum of 3% of the funding for any highway project be dedicated to accommodating bicycling and walking. Contact Paul Lebow of One Less Car at 410-263-3980. (See http://www.onelesscar.org).

"Safe Routes to School" Bill

To create safer conditions for students walking and bicycling to school. The bill would designate a portion of federal transportation safety funding towards a program that would allow local governments to access funds to improve school area safety. Projects could include new crosswalks, building bicycle paths and lanes, constructing sidewalks where none exist, and implementing "traffic calming" programs in neighborhoods around schools to slow the speed of cars and allow safer passages for children walking and bicycling to school. By fostering a more comprehensive neighborhood transportation system, this bill supports Maryland's “Smart Growth” and “Safe Kids” initiatives. This bill is similar to one in California. (http://www.baypeds.org/saferoutes.html). Contact Randy Madres of the MBAC Transportation Subcommittee at 301-890-0064.

Bicycle Accommodation on Mass Transit

To allow 24 hour access to the Washington Metro, to accommodate bicycles on MARC trains, and to require all new passenger railroad cars to have space for bicycles.  Contact Heather Andersen or Ellen Jones of WABA at 202-268-4141.

Elimination of Sales Tax on Bicycle Helmets

Contact Christine Feinthel at 301-652-9529.

Exceptions for Law Enforcement Bicycle Patrol Riders

To allow bicycle police patrols to ride on sidewalks and use whistles when necessary. Contact Lt. John Brandt of the U. of MD Police at 301-405-3555.

Corrections to Laws on Access to Controlled Highways

To make technical corrections to the laws governing bicycle and pedestrian access on controlled highways. Contact Harvey Muller of SHA at 410-545-5656.

The Motorists Should Know

Obey All Traffic Laws Bicycles are vehicles and must obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and traffic signals. It can be tempting to ignore traffic rules, but this is when most crashes occur.

Ride With Traffic Always ride on the right side of the road. Do not pass motorists on the right. If you approach an intersection with a right turn lane and intend to continue straight, ride in the through lane with traffic.

Always Ride With Lights at Night Always use a headlight and rear red reflectors visible from at least 500 feet when riding at night. Flashing tail lights and light colored and/or reflective clothing are highly recommended.  See and be seen!