I see from the thread below ("Event Question") that some people (apparently MTSU students?) are planning a Critical Mass ride on Friday.
For those that have not heard of Critical Mass, it is a movement occurring in several cities around the country. As Steve Davis pointed out, "Critical Mass riders ride through cities on the major streets, usually at rush hour, blocking lanes and running lights. They claim they are trying to raise awareness"
It is my belief that they end up hurting the cause by pointedly *NOT* sharing the road.
I don't often post to this forum in my official capacity as president of the Murfreesboro Bicycle Club, but feel I should make an exception here. I would strongly encourage all club members to *NOT* participate in this event and to speak out against it whenever possible. The last thing we need in this community is more motorists angry at cyclists. If this event comes off, we can expect a rash of anti-cycling letters in the DNJ just at a time when we might be gaining a bit of traction with the city on making Murfreesboro a bike-friendly city.
Your official statement wouldn't hurt to be posted in the DNJ prior to any such "events". Such a negative approach as a Critical Mass Ride can only be detrimental, especially at a time when we are hoping to bring the City of Murfreesboro Bicyle Plan back to the attention of the city engineers and planners.
Ed, the idea of a statement in the DNJ saying the MBC does not support this type activity but instead is working with local agencies/groups to build a positive relationship of sharing the roads and working to make Murfreesboro a Bicycle Friendly Community might be a good thing since these critical mass rides usually get both TV and newspaper coverage because of the conflict/disturbances they cause and sometimes violence between police/motorist's/cyclist's.
At least up front it would have been publicized the MBC is not supportive of this. What do you think?
Cary
How about a completely different approach? What if MBC swamped the ride with as many people as possible? If they are going to ride at rush hour blocking traffic, running lights, etc., MBCers could encourage other behavior and join in if it turns out to be more geared towards appropriate behavior. If I were still in the Boro, I would go check it out and try to move it in the right direction. Just a suggestion.
I like the official release of a statement indicating that these types of rides are not sanctioned idea. It will be one of the positions we will need to take to get things moving with the bike plan. Someone will need to plug in at that level and Ed, you sound like the man for the job.
I would try to get it covered in the same story as the ride if possible. Don't have to grant an interview, but not opposed if you did. But at the least a press statement with the official position of the club and why. They can use the statement in the story.
Just because bicycling improvement is on the radar, it isn't a slam dunk. Little things like that can be very helpful in laying some important groundwork.