Members of Cycle Aware Manawatu were devastated to hear of the death of Jocelyn Goodwin, a local cyclist who is well known and respected in the Palmerston North community and beyond. Our thoughts are with her family and everyone involved and affected by the tragedy.
We would like to encourage all drivers and cyclists to be aware of one another and road conditions to ensure the safety of all road users.
This tragedy is an unfortunate reminder that we all need to do much more to protect people on bikes. The road concerned recently had its speed limit reduced from 70kph to 60kph. It also has well marked cycle lanes - there is clearly more that could be done to protect cyclists from being hurt AND drivers from the horror of being involved in an incident where injury or death could occur.
It's tough on our roads even if we are all following the rules - often there is no room for even a small error. We believe that the consequence of such errors can be lessened by sensible road design and a little bit of patience.
Cycle Aware Manawatu is keen to see the Palmerston North City Council establish a cycling and walking Advisory Board that will allow the community's road-safety concerns to be addressed.
Anthony Behrens
027 470 9829