by Robert Sullivan
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But the measured arguments are run down. So in quasi desperation, I will instead take a sarcastic approach, please forgive me, and agree, just for the heck of it, with the detractors of bike lanes.
On the argument that bike lanes should be eliminated given that they are not used during the winter, which I guess means no one noticed me biking around all this week, trying to save a little on the soon-to-be-increased subway fare: Oh, yes, by all means, take them based on this period of low usage, and then, using the same logic, let’s take out the BQE, because there are hardly any cars on it at 3 in the morning.
On the idea that mad bikers are the out to destroy everyone: We need to get those jerks off of bikes and put back in automobiles where they belong.
On the idea that bikes ultimately can’t coexist in a city with trucks and traffic, that restaurants and stores can’t get goods: Too true! Moreover, what are we doing allowing those concrete swaths in that area between where cars drive and where the buildings are? Sidewalks, I think they call them. People really slow things down. Can they be put underground, or some kind of special lanes?
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https://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2010/12/21/are-new-yorks-bike-lanes-working/the-car-cultures-blind-spotoldId.20101224181303997