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~ ~ <br /> July 5, 2005 <br /> CONTACT: Cindy Clarke, Transportation Options Coordinator, 682-5285 <br /> Lee Shoemaker, Bicycle & Pedestrian Coordinator, 682-5471 <br /> From Public Information Section, 682-5523 <br /> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE <br /> SAFELY ENJOYING EUGENE'S MULTI-USE PATHS <br /> Eugene's multi-use paths are very popular during the summer months. Bicyclists, skaters, <br /> pedestrians, playing children and pet owners all use the paths and need to be aware of each other <br /> and follow path safety rules. <br /> "This is the time of year when we hear more about safety concerns from users on the multi-use <br /> paths in Eugene" says Lee Shoemaker, the City's bicycle and pedestrian coordinator. "The nice <br /> weather brings out more bicycle commuters and many recreational users." <br /> Counts taken in October of 2000 along the path indicate that many paths in Eugene have nearly <br /> 1,000 bicycle riders each day in addition to the pedestrian activity along the paths. <br /> Here are several rules that path users should observe: <br /> • Always walk or ride on the right. Pass on the left and indicate your intentions by calling out <br /> "on your left" or sounding a bell. <br /> Keep your pet on a leash and under control. Park rules state that you must keep your pets <br /> on leashes unless in areas designated for off-leash. <br /> • Bicyclists, check your speed. Paris rules limit the speed for bicyclists to 20 mph. When <br /> passing pedestrians or when children are present, bicyclists should be riding at a reduced <br /> speed. <br /> Don't forget your helmets. Helmets are a good idea for everyone, but state law requires <br /> helmets for all those 15 and under using bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and inline skates. <br /> • Motor assisted transportation devices (such as motor scooters, etc.) are not permitted on off- <br /> street paths in Eugene unless exempted as a necessary mobility aid or by special <br /> permission. <br /> "This is also the perfect time to teach children how to be safe by showing them the proper etiquette <br /> of using the path." says Shoemaker. <br /> Eugene resident Lori Howard commutes on the multi-use paths. "I love our bike paths, and I love <br /> my commute," says Howard. "But sometimes people just aren't paying attention. I certainly don't <br /> want to get hurt nor do I want to accidentally hurt someone else or their child or their dog." <br /> Eugene's off-street paths are for everyone to enjoy responsibly. For more information go to <br /> <br /> www.ci.eugene.or.us and under "Services" click "Bicycles" or "Parks" or contact: <br /> Lee Shoemaker, Bike Pedestrian Coordinator (541) 682-5471 <br /> <br /> Richard Zucker, Parks & Open Space, (541) 682-4833 <br /> Kerry Delf, Eugene Police Department (541) 682-5197 <br /> Public Works • Administration • City of Eugene • 858 Pearl Street • Eugene, OR 97401 <br /> Phone: (541) 682-5262 • FAX: (541) 682-6826 • www.ci.eugene.or.us <br /> <br />