OPINION: Eagle River’s roads: a cyclist’s nightmare and a vision for the future

As an avid cyclist and Eagle River resident, I’ve experienced firsthand the dangers and frustrations of navigating our community’s streets on two wheels. From near-misses on sidewalks to blatant threats from aggressive drivers, it’s clear that our roads are failing to protect vulnerable users. The recent surge in vehicle vs. pedestrian collisions in our community underscores the urgent need for change.

My initial foray into cycling involved navigating Eagle River’s sidewalks, a decision prompted by the lack of safe bike lanes. However, this proved to be a dangerous gamble. The sidewalks, often obstructed by overgrown greenery, create blind spots for drivers entering and exiting driveways. On multiple occasions, I found myself narrowly avoiding collisions with cars speeding onto the sidewalk, their drivers seemingly oblivious to my presence.

The acquisition of a Class 3 e-bike, capable of reaching speeds of 25 mph, offered a glimmer of hope. Now able to keep pace with traffic, I felt safer and more empowered on my daily commute to the Eagle River Transit Center. However, this newfound sense of security was short-lived.

On six separate occasions, I’ve been subjected to deliberate intimidation and threats from drivers, primarily in trucks. They’ve sped past me at alarmingly close distances, nearly clipping my handlebars. In some instances, they’ve shouted obscenities or attempted to justify their actions at intersections, claiming a misguided sense of entitlement to the road. The hostility and aggression I’ve encountered highlight a disturbing lack of respect for cyclists and a disregard for their safety.

These experiences are not unique to me. The 2007 Chugiak-Eagle River Long-Range Transportation Plan, a document that has guided transportation planning in our community for years, acknowledged the need for a balanced transportation system that supports multiple modes of travel while enhancing safety and minimizing environmental impacts. The plan was developed with extensive community input, including the participation of a citizen advisory committee representing various stakeholders and community councils. It lays out a vision for the future that includes improvements to non-motorized infrastructure, recognizing the importance of providing safe and accessible options for cyclists and pedestrians.

However, progress has been slow. The 2007 Long-Range Transportation Plan highlighted the need for improvements to sidewalks, trails, and bicycle facilities, yet many of these recommendations remain unfulfilled. The plan also called for studies to address congestion and improve circulation in the Eagle River Central Business District and residential core, but these studies have yet to be conducted.

We cannot continue to prioritize the convenience of motorists at the expense of the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. Eagle River needs to invest in infrastructure that prioritizes the safety of all road users. This includes dedicated bike lanes, clearly marked crosswalks, and traffic calming measures, particularly on high-traffic roads like Old Glenn Highway. We must also cultivate a culture of respect and responsibility on our roads, where all users feel safe and valued. Implementing educational campaigns and stricter enforcement of traffic laws can help foster a more inclusive and considerate driving environment.

The 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, with its long-term plans to rehabilitate Old Glenn Highway, offers a glimmer of hope. However, we need to see immediate action to address the current dangers faced by cyclists and pedestrians. It’s time for Eagle River to transform its streets from a cyclist’s nightmare into a haven for all. Let’s work together to build a community where everyone, regardless of their mode of transportation, can travel safely and confidently.

Let’s make Eagle River a place where cycling is not just possible but enjoyable, where sidewalks are safe havens, and where drivers respect the rights and lives of all who share the road. The 2007 Long-Range Transportation Plan and the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan provide a roadmap for the future, but we need to act now to ensure the safety of our residents today.

Kyle Mielke is a cyclist and an Eagle River homeowner deeply invested in the community’s well-being. He currently serves on the Public Transit Advisory Board and is a former member of the Eagle River Community Council.

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