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Bike Path Politics In Arlington
By spokesman | July 14, 2010
Bike paths get built inch by inch and are often opposed by the local communities. However, once they are built, they tend to be very popular. All of the paths around the Washington DC area seem to follow this scenario. The latest one was highlighted in an article in the Washington Post. In a nutshell, Arlington County granted a wavier to the Army Navy Country Club so that they could build a new clubhouse that exceeded the local zoning rules. In exchange, the club agreed to let the county build a short connector bike path on the perimeter of the club’s property. Most the path abuts a highway. The path does not bisect the course. In my opinion, it was a good deal by a county that is very supportive of cycling. Many of the club members praised the deal. However, 14 of the club’s member don’t like it and have sued the club’s leader. It is a civil war. Here is a quote from a member as reported in the story:
“Once the word gets out to the younger generation there is a secluded place to come and visit and have some fun, you can bet they’re going to be there. Gangs. Rivals…”
This should be an interesting battle. Check out the map in the Washington Post article to see how much of the club is adjacent to a major highway. The short segment of bike path is insignificant compared to the highway. However logic isn’t the basis for the arguments of anti-bike path group. It is fear of the arrival of the Crips, Bloods and MS-13 after the path is built.
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Topics: Bikes and Politics, Trails/Bike Routes, Washington DC |