Time for some Bike Lanes

Sign at Washington and Wisner in Jackson

I know there are not many pedalers out on the streets yet but why wait until there all lots of accidents or congestion before we build Bike Lanes. Sure, this sign says Bike Route but I dont see any bike lanes here that makes this a real bike route. Only reason there is a bike route sign on this street is because it's not as busy as Michigan Ave 1 block over. The one big problem putting in bike lanes is they would need to widen the road or make it only 1 lane for cars. That is ok since Washington Ave is 1-Way already. I'd be happy if cars would just be more watchful of us pedalers since we dont have much protection against 2800 lbs of metal [plastic now] Id be extra happy if pedalers would also but very defensive when riding their bikes just for the fact they can get hurt so easily. Why take a chance against a car? Give them a careful look cause Im sure many cars are not looking at you. Better safe than sorry. Bike Lanes would let drivers see pedalers better but the driver must be watching the road and not distract themselves with cell phones and ipods an such or else us pedalers are still sitting ducks. It takes both sides to be watchful and courteous so lets be careful out there. Remember Hill Street Blues! :-]