[BikeLongmont] CO 119 bike lanes

[Richard Masoner]

Something I forgot to mention in my earlier summary of riding on the new 
119 bypass: The striped shoulder area appears to be a bike lane. I'm not 
sure if that's the intent -- there aren't any bike lane markings or 
signs -- but that's certainly going to be the perception of anybody who 
rides or drivers on this highway.

My concern is that this bike lane is to the *right* of all right turn 
lanes on 119. Right now this isn't important because traffic is light 
and the right turns don't actually go anywhere.  When all of the 
anticipated commercial development comes in, however, straight-through 
bikes directed to the right of right-turning traffic is a hazard. I know 
the Greenway will probably be available by the time the stores come in, 
but when I'm commuting I don't always want to take a meandering 
creekside trail.

I realize 119 is a state-maintained highway. Does anybody know who to 
contact regarding this concern?

Also, will there be easy access from the Greenway into commercial 
developments? I know there's some provision in the city code for 
pedestrian access, but I'm curious what that means in terms of getting 
to Best Buy (or whatever) from the Greenway. A sporting goods store 
would be perfect there, I think, especially if Longmont is able to get 
its recreational water diversion and build the proposed St. Vrain Kayak 
Park.

RFM