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MD, bike groups should meet over events

Cycling event organizers and the MD of Foothills need to hash out concerns over events that can draw hundreds of cyclists to area roads. The alternative is to see events ride elsewhere, or be pushed out.

Cycling event organizers and the MD of Foothills need to hash out concerns over events that can draw hundreds of cyclists to area roads.

The alternative is to see events ride elsewhere, or be pushed out.

Debate has simmered at MD council in recent years over cycling events that can sometimes draw hundreds of riders to highways and roads to the area.

At issue is the number of cycling events on Foothills’ small country roads, the impact they have on farmers and residents who use them and the potential for collisions.

It now seems to have reached boiling point as several councillors say they no longer want unplanned cycling events held in the Priddis area.

Cycling is growing in popularity and organized rides are popular fundraisers.

The beauty of the Foothills and the curves and hills on the MD’s roads makes them a popular destination.

It’s time for the MD and cycling groups to work out issues over events so they can go ahead with minimal impact on residents, farmers and businesses. Winter is coming, so this is the time to work out all the details before the bikes head back out on the highway in the spring.

It’s an opportunity to discuss routes, services and safety.

There already are some good ideas on the table.

A suggestion to have cycling groups join the Priddis Community Association would be a great move, and it could be expanded to other communities to open a dialogue between residents and cyclists.

Relocating events to Longview may also be a good move.

A village and MD councillor say the community would welcome cyclists and the area’s wider, less-traveled roads are better suited for cycling events.

Just as the MD needs to be able to find a way to accommodate cyclists, event organizers of cycling events should be aware of the impact they have on the people who live and work on the MD’s rural roads.

Events also bring hundreds, and in some cases thousands, of people to the region.

It’s excellent exposure that can benefit Foothills communities and businesses.

It’s essential the MD and event organizers can work out a plan that will allow cycling events to continue in the Foothills.




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