Concerns over bicycle safety and traffic data dominated the recent Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee meeting in Nantucket. Committee members raised alarms about the current state of bike paths, particularly highlighting a problematic route that forces cyclists onto a narrow, unpaved road riddled with potholes.

One member expressed strong reservations about the safety of the designated bike area, stating, "I would not feel safe on my bike going along the designated area." This sentiment reflects a growing frustration among cyclists who feel their needs are being overlooked in favor of vehicle traffic. The discussion pointed to a significant gap in the data being collected, which primarily focuses on vehicle traffic and fails to adequately represent the experiences of cyclists.

Critics argued that the current traffic data is skewed, primarily reflecting the complaints of vehicle drivers rather than the voices of cyclists. "I think the data's horrendously skewed in one direction for people who are inconvenienced by their cars," one member noted, emphasizing the need for a more balanced approach to traffic analysis.

As the committee continues to address these issues, the call for improved infrastructure and more inclusive data collection methods is clear. The safety of cyclists on Nantucket roads remains a pressing concern, with advocates urging local officials to prioritize the needs of all road users in future planning efforts.