Fallen into disrepair − 8 June, 2008

One of the most beloved bicycle trails is being closed for repairs for two years. It is only one segment in 12 miles; however, it is one of the most grossly decrepit roads a road biker in our county is ever asked to cross. It is an actual road, a two-lane road winding along the Huron River. The slogan "share the road" is meant to go both ways. It doesn't always work that way, though. Cyclists have died on this road. I had my big accident on this road.

Yet cyclists love this road, as do motorists out for a pleasant weekend drive. For some odd reason, the outbound lane has always been in better repair than the inbound lane. The inbound lane has been downright frightening for years. When a cyclist reaches a certain point in the road, the best strategy there on out is to peddle like absolute hell, with the hope that no vehicles overtake. With no vehicles present, the cyclist may protect his life by weaving in and out among the potholes. With traffic present, the wise cyclist slows down and uses the shoulder if possible.

Although two years of construction sounds drastic, if you saw the road you would understand how important it is to get this right.