June is here – warm days followed by cool evenings are perfect for being outside. On the streets, in the parks and along the lake, people are riding bikes, inline skating, walking, running or just enjoying the beauty of the city.
The high number of trail users that include pedestrians, runners, cyclists, in-line skaters and people with mobility impairments is representative of the appreciation of Minneapolis’ beautiful parks. Taking personal responsibility and being considerate of other trail users is imperative. These tips and regulations are aimed at keeping the trails safe and fun for everyone this summer.
Cyclists and Skaters
- One of the best ways to stay safe this summer is to wear a helmet and other safety gear when biking, skating and skateboarding.
- Be safe. Travel the trails at reasonable speeds that allow for the safety of skaters, pedestrians and other users.
- Some of the bicycle trails in the Minneapolis park system are directional, one-way trails. Make sure to enter and travel with the proper flow of traffic.
- Always keep to the right when using trails unless you are passing slower users.
- Be predictable. When approaching slower trail users from behind, please sound your warning device, or call out “Passing on your left.” Always pass slower users on the left.
- Bicycles are subject to all traffic laws. Stop signs must be obeyed for safety.
- Please obey all traffic signals and trail markings.
- If you must use a sidewalk or crosswalk, consider walking your bicycle or ride very slowly.
- Cyclists riding lawfully in a crosswalk enjoy the same rights as pedestrians, but are also subject to the same requirement that they not move suddenly in to the path of an approaching vehicle that is so close that it makes it impossible for the vehicle to stop.
- Bicycles and skaters are only allowed on designated bicycle trails, not pedestrian trails.
- Cyclists must use a headlight and rear reflectors when it’s dark. To increase visibility, it is a good idea to add a rear flashing light.
- Be courteous. Yield to pedestrians and be respectful of other users regardless of their mode, speed or level of skill.
- Don’t forget to signal your turns.
- Wearing headphones decreases awareness and limits your ability to hear. Consider listening only out of a single earbud.
Pedestrians and Runners
- Keep to the right when walking or running.
- Pedestrians and runners are not allowed to travel on designated bicycle trails.
- Be aware of fast moving bicyclists or skaters when crossing trails to avoid collisions.
- Call out “Passing on your left” when approaching slower trail users from behind. Always pass on the left.
- The safest way to approach a marked crossing is the same for all users: slow, determine that approaching drivers have sufficient time to stop, then enter the crossing and complete your crossing maneuver.
- Pedestrians should not suddenly leave a curb and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.
- When in a group or with your pets, use no more than half the trail so as not to block the flow of other users.
- Headphones reduce your hearing and can distract you from sounds that can alert you to danger. Go without headphones to take in the sounds of nature and keep yourself safe.
Motorists
- During the summer months the park trails, intersections and crosswalks can become very congested. Careful and conscientious driving is critical.
- Drivers must drive at safe speeds and be attentive — look for bicyclists, check blind spots.
- The parkway speed limit is 25mph.
- Drivers should use caution and look twice for riders and pedestrians when turning.
- The driver of a vehicle shall stop to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a marked crosswalk or at an intersection with no marked crosswalk.
- Children can be a bit unpredictable with right-of-way and traffic laws, and they could run into the street without looking. It’s up to you, the driver, to be extra cautious in areas around our parks, and playgrounds.
- Parking lots are breeding grounds for accidents because they’re full of cars, pedestrians and activity. Keep your guard up.
- Leave your cellphone alone. It’s well-known that distracted driving puts everyone else at greater risk.
For more information on MPRB Ordinances regarding trail usage visit: the MBRB website www.minneapolisparks.org or MPRB Code of Ordinances