OK, here's the copy of the letter I sent to my city councillors:

January 25, 2005

Councillors xxxxxxxxxxx and xxxxxxxxxx:

My question is about the City of Windsor policy regarding snow removal from on street bike routes. Is there a specific policy about this, with pertinent performance standards (ie. snow shall be removed 1 meter into the bike lane within 24 hours of snowfall)?

I have commuted by bicycle to work for the past two years. This winter season, I made the decision to continue my commuting during the winter months. My winter experience on the roads has, generally, been favourable. However, I have noticed that part of my route, specifically Parent Avenue between Tecumseh Road East and Erie Street East, has not had the bike route cleared after any of the snowfalls we have had this winter. The bike lane, shared with on street parking, actually seems to be the repository for the snow plowed from the street. In addition, many residents of Parent Avenue are piling snow in the bike lane. At this writing, the bike lane is unusable.
I understand that the street parking in this neighbourhood poses a challenge for plow operators however there must be a workable solution to this problem.

The city of Windsor has actively promoted the concept of bicycle commuting through the Windsor Bicycling Committee, Cycle Windsor web site, Bike to Work in June contest, Bicycle Commuter Memberships at city arena facilites, the Bicycle Locker Program Pilot Project and the construction and signing of many miles of bike lanes and routes. This city takes seriously it's responsibility to maintain safe roadways for motor vehicle users. I believe that it is the City of Windsor's responsibility to ensure that cyclist safety, access and comfort are maintained at all times. Bicycle commuters should expect safe use of cycle facilities year round, not just in 'nice' weather, or when convenient. All users of our roadways deserve a safe, enjoyable commute.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.


Sincerely,


xxxxxx x. xxxxx

xxxx xxxxxxx xxxxx
Windsor, Ontario
xxx xxx

Oh, and Serge, I don't care for bike lanes, especially lanes shared with parking (door zone lanes) but that's the reality around here. It just really pi$$es me off to have the city provide a bike lane and then refuse to maintain it, so I wrote the letter.