In addition to concerns about the lack of funding, around ten cycling associations are addressing an open letter to the new majority in the city of Brussels. In the majority agreement presented, we can indeed read that cyclists, users of scooters and other two-wheelers will no longer be welcome in the pedestrian zone of Boulevard Anspach.
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“Accidents are increasing”
An incomprehensible choice for the twelve signatories of the letter. “This decision comes in a context marked by a dramatic increase in serious accidents involving cyclists”it is written. Indeed, two serious accidents occurred at the Barrière de Saint-Gilles on December 5 and at Forest a week later. “The message to cyclists seems to be that they themselves are the danger and must make do with ‘alternative routes’ in the midst of heavy motor traffic.”
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Cyclists will now have to pass through rue de Laeken, rue Van Artevelde and rue d’Anderlecht. Although it is parallel to the pedestrian zone, this axis is not ideal for several reasons. “These streets are clogged with heavy motorized traffic with buses traveling in both directions. Motorists do not respect the overtaking ban and often drive too fast. Additionally, the roadway is strewn with potholes. Several large construction sites increase the risks linked to the presence of construction trucks and traffic jams.” These different points demonstrate for “cyclists do not know a real alternative route”.
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What solutions for two wheels?
Organizations want to reach out to administrations. But there are many differences. “We need to set priorities correctly”they continue. The safety of all is at the center of the solutions. “Cyclists must adapt their behavior and ride at a reduced speed. The media campaigns run by the police with cycling officer David Stevens have been very useful in reinforcing this perception. As long as cyclists respect these rules, pedestrians and cyclists can coexist in this space.”
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In their majority agreement, the aldermen assured that they had ambitions for both pedestrians and cyclists. “It’s high time we found solutions that don’t treat cyclists like outcasts.” To do this, the signatories ask the majority to take a step back in its cycling policy.
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