Town of Wrightsville Beach reminds cyclists to steer clear of sidewalks

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Some cyclists in Wrightsville Beach are raising concerns over the rules of the road. WWAY visited that beach town on Monday.   

The town recently added warning signs that bikes should not be ridden on the sidewalks. 

The Wrightsville Loop is a popular walking, running, and sightseeing path that extends nearly three miles. While many cyclists enjoy utilizing the path too, the town of Wrightsville Beach is reminding them to follow the rules when it comes to sidewalks. 

One town ordinance requires cyclists to ride on the roadway to minimize congestion and limit pedestrian injury.  

Eileen McConville is President of the Terry Benjey Bicycling Foundation. She said that this is not a new concept, the town is just recently doing more policing to enforce safety in the area.  

“Bicycles are expected to ride in the roadway every time it’s at all possible. So, we ask motorists to be aware of the fact that bicycles have the right and the legal responsibility to be on the road,” McConville said. 

WWAY reached out to the Wrightsville Beach Police Department to see how they are enforcing the ordinance. Police Chief David Squires said along with implementing warning signs, they are brainstorming other ways to educate bikers on safe cycling.  

The town issued a statement, which reads in part: 

“This spring we will also be reaching out to stores that rent or sell bicycles to ensure they have a handout to share with new riders to increase awareness.” 

McConville said it’s important to follow this ordinance and heed the warning signs, but also practice safe riding with the use of a helmet and reflective gear.  

“You want to ride with the traffic. Some people believe, incorrectly, that bicycles should go against the traffic. If a bicycle goes against the traffic, cars and bikes are coming upon each other way too fast,” McConville said. “Bicycles should be in the right side of whatever lane is appropriate.” 

Chief Squires said town police proactively patrol looking for opportunities to lower risk and increase compliance of this ordinance.