Closing part of Second would deter bikes

As someone who frequently bikes along Second Avenue to work, I am not in favor of the proposed closure of part of Second Avenue and making traffic two-way on Second and Third avenues.

Having two one-way avenues makes riding downtown on a bicycle fairly safe. The lanes are wide, traffic is moving with me as I bike, and anyone who needs to get around me doesn't have to pass against oncoming traffic. If the avenues are made two-way, drivers will be more distracted, and passing a bike will be more dangerous.

In addition, there will be more traffic congestion on the avenues because of the closure. I won't want to ride to work in a situation like that.

I see more and more people riding bikes in Cedar Rapids - for exercise or to conserve fuel - so I hope the City Council will consider these issues. Even if the closure plan is passed by council, there should at least be a stipulation for well-marked and well-maintained bike lanes on Second and Third avenues.

Jane Nesmith

Cedar Rapids