Cyclists Are Called to Action as They Rally to Bring Higher Safety Measures on The Streets of NYC

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a massive change in the mindset of people worldwide. The horrors of the deadly pandemic forced people to take health and wellness more seriously. Previously, a major focus of people’s lives was work, but since 2020, they have understood the importance of taking care of one’s health.

That meant a number of people started adopting different methods in order to keep themselves in a healthy condition. In the United States of America especially, what was once regarded as the country of automobiles has slowly shifted to a country of growing cyclists. The sheer number of cyclists on the road has increased almost three times over the past few years.-.69

It is quite a positive sign when the population of a country shifts their mindset to sustainable and healthier options, but with it came new problems.

Cyclists gather in huge numbers to raise their voice

The current road infrastructure was built keeping in mind the vehicles on the road and cyclists plying on the streets are left to fend for themselves. The number of cyclists accidents and deaths in the past two years are nothing short of alarming.

In order to make their voices and concerns heard, cyclists in New York City took the streets to demand for better infrastructure and safety on roads. More than 100 people gathered in a show of unity. They started their cycling rally at Union Square and ended it at City Hall. They flocked to the streets and demanded swift action from the city mayor, Eric Adams.

People of New York City will remember the year 2023 as one of the deadliest for cyclists. With three months yet to go in the year, it has already become the deadliest in the decade and the second most overall in the history of the city.

People of NYC demand swift action before more casualties

The group of protesters laid down bikes and helmets on the ground, a representation of the 26 lives lost this year in cycle related accidents. For numerous people, the cycles on display were more than a statement. It was personal. Families of the victims were touched to see such a large group of people uniting for the cause.

Several people present at the rally spoke to the media and elaborated on why this rally is important and cyclists’ safety. Deja Daniels remembered her 16-year-old nephew who lost his life six months ago in Queens. “He was special. He was a light, he could light up any room he walked in.”

“Everybody’s outside rallying. Looking for change, looking for laws to be created, looking to hold our mayor accountable, our district attorney accountable.” 

Joining the rally was executive director of Transportation Alternatives Danny Harris, who spoke about the need to understand the problem at hand and identify solutions. The current road infrastructure leaves cyclists high and dry and makes the experience of cycling a deadly one, instead of relaxing.

“The levels of fatalities are record-breaking levels, and they’re all occurring Mayor Adams streets. He has the tools to keep us safe, and he’s not using them.”

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The support and energy of the people of New York City was truly wonderful to witness. People came in large numbers with the hope that their voices are heard and the local authorities take cognizance of the matter at hand. If this continues, it will discourage people and force them to choose unhealthier alternatives of transportation. This would result in a major setback for all.

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