This summer, Islanders will notice a new type of road sign on Island highways intended to encourage drivers to be mindful of cyclists, and encourage cyclists to ride safely. This week, the Department of Transportation and Public Works installed its brand new “Share the Road” signs. The signs have been erected in the town of Stratford, and along Route 6 between Stanhope and Brackley Beach.
“Every year, more Islanders are using bicycles as a primary mode of Transportation and as part of a healthy lifestyle,” says Minister of Transportation and Public Works Ron MacKinley. “As tourists begin to arrive on the Island for the summer, our roads will begin to see more and more cyclists. So it’s very important that we take steps to remind drivers to share the road and give cyclists lots of room.”
The “Share the Road” signs are part of a larger campaign launched by the Department in late May meant to encourage safe cycling on Prince Edward Island. Radio and television ads have been running for the last few weeks which ask drivers to share the road, and ask cyclists to ride safely and wear a helmet. The Department has also partnered with Cycling PEI to promote bicycle rodeos at various locations across the Island. The rodeos will give cyclists safe riding information, and a bicycle inspection to ensure bicycles are in good working order.
“Cycling PEI is very pleased with the attention that’s been paid to this very important issue,” says Mark Bowlan, President of Cycling PEI. “We expect this campaign will go a long way to promote safe cycling on Prince Edward Island and we look forward to continued efforts in the future.”
“Residents in my community have been asking for something to help promote cycling safety for a number of years,” says Stratford-Kinlock MLA and avid cyclist Cynthia Dunsford. “It’s great to see this government putting in the effort to make Island roads safer for cyclists, and at the same time encourage safe riding.”