I am a nurse who works on Atwood Drive in Northampton. I feel very fortunate that I am able to work and live in the same city, and made some sacrifices in order to do this.
One of the main reasons that I made this a priority was so that I could bike to work. I am a seasoned bicyclist, having biked in much larger cities (Portland, Oregon, Philadelphia, New York City) as my means of commute. However, the brief stretch of Route 5 that I must go through that passes by the entrances to Interstate 91 is the most terrifying and dangerous circumstance I have ever experienced.
Every day I am nearly hit by cars speeding on to the highway, in spite of my bright pink helmet and lights on my bike. What is being done to make this safer for bicyclists and pedestrians? I have patients who have no other transportation, and I fear for them as well. I am determined to continue bicycling, and hope that local officials will make our safety a priority. We do not need more cars on the road!
Susan Rees
Florence