Bicyclists gathered in Downtown Bakersfield for the 'Bakersfield Beats the Heat' Ride to City Hall, advocating for safer cycling infrastructure amidst concerns from a recent Kern County Grand Jury report. This report noted the benefits of bike lanes but called them a waste due to hot weather and poor air quality. CalBike's Kendra Ramsey criticized the report as lacking authority. Despite the report's negative implications about biking in extreme heat, the rally showcased strong community support for cycling safety, though Bakersfield has not acted on the report's recommendations.
Kern County Grand Jury indicated that while bicycle lanes have safety and environmental benefits, they are deemed a waste of money due to extreme heat and poor air quality.
CalBike executive director Kendra Ramsey emphasized that the grand jury report is a public relations tool, lacking any legal authority, and noted that Bakersfield has not complied with its suggestions.
Despite claims in the grand jury report about the heat impacting cycling, dozens of cyclists participated in a ride to City Hall to advocate for safer infrastructure.
City Councilmember Bob Smith stated, 'The grand jury has no authority. It is not consistent with the goals of the City Council,' highlighting the disconnect between the report and city objectives.
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