as part of WGBH’s “Right of Way” series

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mpSd9eXO7B4

toward the end of the panel, an idea occurred to me as to how we might promote cyclist safety. perhaps it is unrealistic given current budgets, but it struck me as a good idea to have police officers ride around the city. this could have multiple benefits:

• cyclists will be more likely to stop for red lights when the police offer does (on  bike)
• motorists may be more considerate when they see commuters riding with “police protection”
• uniformed officers on two wheels might help dispel the notion to bikes belong on the sidewalk
• ticketing cars that park in bike lanes

maybe it’s a silly idea, or maybe they’ve tried it. but it seemed to resound with the panel. maybe something will come of it…