Student bikers looking toward new paths
Area bicyclists will soon have a new bike path to peddle.
Central Michigan University is adding a bike lane this summer on Franklin Street, from Preston Street to Bellows Street.
The path will come without road construction.
“We just have to paint the lines up the street,” said Steve Lawrence, associate vice president of Facilities Management. “It’s a very low-cost project.”
The exact cost of how much painting the lines will cost unknown, but Lawrence said it will be minimal. The university owns the streets, so the painting can be done in-house.
Mount Pleasant freshman Steve Shaffer likes the idea of an added bike lane.
“I think it’s a great idea,” he said. “It will make the sidewalks a little less crowded.”
Students who live in the area also think the lanes are a good decision.
Kingsley junior Jeremy Olson said he occasionally rides a bike to and from classes and sidewalk traffic can be a hassle.
“The lanes will give bikers their own area, so they aren’t forced to ride on crowded sidewalks,” Olson said.
Improved safety for pedestrians is an ongoing incentive for CMU and adding the bike lane is a sound decision, Lawrence said.
“It’s an extremely low-cost project to provide space for bikers,” he said.
Olson said he feels better about the project, knowing it is beneficial for students, but will not add to the university’s financial struggles.
“Low cost is a good thing right now. The university can’t afford to throw a lot of money around with all the budget cuts,” Olson said.
