THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, April 2, 1995 TAG: 9503310223
SECTION: PORTSMOUTH CURRENTS PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Editorial
LENGTH: Short : 27 lines
Recent reports that people on bicycles have been robbing pedestrians along the Seawall or on Olde Towne sidewalks make it imperative that police pay special attention to those who ride bikes in areas normally reserved for walkers.
Portsmouth's image will suffer badly if residents begin to feel uneasy walking in places promoted by the city as tourist attractions. Part of the charm of the waterfront and the historic district is the presence of people enjoying the outdoors.
The law prohibits riding a bicycle on sidewalks in commercial districts and recently was extended to the Seawall, Portside and Riverfront Park. Perhaps sidewalks in historic districts also should be included in the ordinance.
Most cyclists ride on the streets. Cracking down on those who take to the sidewalks and Seawall should not interfere with the enjoyment of well-intentioned bicycle riders. by CNB