IT’s been a few years back but I saw an adapter to put on a bike that allowed a bike to ride the train rails. But that could have a few obvious draw backs if the tracks were still being used, unless you were a really fast peddler.

Mobile needs to begin to set itself apart from other cities in the south.  That sort of progressive thinking would go a long way to create a very desirable atmosphere in this town.  If we should become another Seattle in the next decade, it would be good to already have some good planning in the works.

BamaBob, I agree 100%, the problem is, right now I’m sure Mobile is not much worried about the issue. However, if enough of a demand arises, they will have to address the issue. Where I currently live, they did exactly as you described, turned the abandoned railroads to bike trails, and it’s great. They run alongside of the major highways, and allow the safe commute of cyclists and pedestrians. They have traffic signs and warnings, just like a smaller version of the highway. I’m sure in the future there will be a higher demand for an auxiliary route for others. Rather or not Mobile meets the demand, is another story.

Some cities have reclaimed abandoned railroad easements and turned those into bike paths.  Would that be a possibility in Mobile?

I think it is great that more people are riding bikes.  Motorist need to accept that and be extra cautious and alert.  Hey, I don’t like getting stuck behind a school bus, but that is just part of the deal when you want to use public roadways.
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I would still like to see a push for more bike lanes and pedestrian bridges across major thoroughfares.

glamblitz, I lived in Mobile for 27 years, and I can not think of but about 3 places that have ACTUAL trails designed for bicycles. Those are not convenient everyday travelers. As I previously stated, anyone who has a drivers license should be WELL AWARE of the fact that they must share most highways with cyclists. You might as well get used to it. With bicycle sales up 40% from this time last year, it’s only gonna get worse. Most major highways(ex: Highway 90) has a plenty big enough right-a-way on the side to safely accommodate cyclists without impeding motorists traffic. On other highways, you just have to be more aware of your surroundings, and be prepared for anyone you may need to share your lane with!

I cant stand when people ride bikes on main roads!! they ride in the middle of the road & wont move. i am always so scared i am going to hit them (even though i avoid them). that is why we have bike trails. you dont see me driving my suv down any bike trails. so keep your bikes off the road!!

Why does everyone seem to want to argue? I’m not trying to turn the conversation in any direction DEW26M and Thank You for the info, I am always happy to learn something that I did not know.

BamaBob, I was doing the speed limit of 45mph and there was very heavy traffic. I did not almost hit Tiffany. I passed her no closer than anyone else I could see on the road, I didn’t scare her, SHE SCARED ME.
I’m sure if you had come up behind someone on a bike or maybe in a car, driving in that amount of traffic, doing 20 in a 45 zone and slowing down 2 lanes of almost bumper to bumper traffic you would not have been irritated in the least and continued to remain the obvious saint that you are.
This is getting to sound to much like children arguing and when someone starts to make such ridiculous accusations without a clue, its time for me to walk away.

hs6181 - Just tell Tiffany you are sorry that you were speeding and almost ran her down even though she has every right to be on the road using her environmentally friendly bicycle.

If you/your child is under the age of 16, IT IS illegal for you/your child to ride along the side of the highway! You should then use the sidewalk, or YOU/YOUR CHILD can be ticketed. However it is ILLEGAL for a child or adult over 16, to use a PEDESTRIAN SIDEWALK for cyclists use!

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http://www.legislature.state.al.us/CodeofAlabama/1975/coatoc.htm
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http://www.massbike.org/bikelaw/bikelawh.htm#ALABAMA