Comments on Sarah Says: connecting Columbia... at night

While I don't use the pathways regularly as a ...

2012-01-17T12:37:22.047-05:00

While I don't use the pathways regularly as a commuter or for shopping, I have run into the situation you describe where I'm on a trip, it gets dark, and then I have to decide how to get home, whether it be via the pathway or some other way. I've used the path because the other option was just not viable. I agree that this is a crucial issue, especially in the darker months.

The DNR form is fairly new, probably between 1 and...

2012-01-13T20:22:11.790-05:00

The DNR form is fairly new, probably between 1 and 2 years old. I know 1 person actively using it to commute through the state park from UMBC area to Columbia. I know another who is probably using it to commute from Daniels to BWI airport. On a quick look it seems like practical language in the form/agreement.

Fran-- I didn't know about that DNR form! Tha...

2012-01-13T18:21:41.365-05:00

Fran-- I didn't know about that DNR form! That is such a good idea.

I don't bike the trails, but I do take the pat...

2012-01-13T10:57:25.381-05:00

I don't bike the trails, but I do take the path from the lakefront to my apartment. Most nights it's pitch black, so a flashlight is essential. I keep a shake light in my bag or in my jacket if I even consider going down there at night so I can at least see the outline of the paving. I've tried walking without it and basically need to feel out the edge of the pavement with my foot to get where I'm going.

1)Bike light performance improves every year and t...

2012-01-13T10:31:58.350-05:00

1)Bike light performance improves every year and they are already fantastic. You can get an amazing light for $100. Their cost is quickly recovered by the savings of not using your car, and reduced health care costs that cycling provides. So self lighting is the way to go.
2)I think MD DNR's after-hours bike commuting waiver is a promising solution for CA to consider. Check it out at: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/pdfs/PVSP_bicyclecommuting.pdf

At the risk of blowing our cover, there is a group...

2012-01-13T09:53:19.145-05:00

At the risk of blowing our cover, there is a group that rides the Columbia trails at night and I've used the trails to commute. Good lights and well memorized routes are essential.