FORT COLLINS — Warm weather in downtown Fort Collins is no excuse for riding bicycles or skateboards on sidewalks, city officials say.
Police say they’ve received more and more complaints about cyclists and boarders ignoring the prohibition of sidewalk boarding and cycling, despite a campaign that started last year discouraging the practice.
Those who insist on ignoring the sidewalk cycling ban face a $75 fine.
Last summer, new dismount signs were installed throughout downtown Fort Collins, emphasizing a new approach and philosophy at keeping bicyclists from riding on downtown sidewalks, said Police Officer Todd Hopkins.
The signage designed by City Bicycle Coordinator Dave “DK” Kemp elaborates on the new strategy of “instead of instructing bicyclists on what not to do, we are instructing bicyclists on what to do,” Kemp said.
Cycling on College Avenue is legal north of Laurel Street and south of Harmony Road but recommended only for experienced bicyclists who are comfortable riding with traffic, Hopkins said. Alleyways also provide great bicycle connectivity, although bicycling through Trimble Court is prohibited.
Police are encouraging the use of Remington Street and Mason Street on either side of College Avenue as convenient alternative routes for cyclists. Both Mason and Remington streets include bike lanes and are within easy walking distance of any downtown destination. For more detailed information on bicycling in Fort Collins, and related links, go to .
Monte Whaley: 720-929-0907 or mwhaley@denverpost.com
