Letter to the Editor: Asks Cap2Cap to move ride to Route 5 bike trail

Let me start by saying that I like to see people having fun, especially on a beautiful day like Saturday was.

To that end, I had hoped that all the bikers this weekend would capitalize on the recently opened bike trail that stretches along Route 5 between Williamsburg and Richmond. I am not a bicyclist myself, but I want people to have fun, and I want the Cap2Cap to continue every year.

However, every year during this event bicyclists are routed along The Glebe Lane and Wilcox Neck Road. I am afraid I have to take serious issue with this since large groups of bicycles are not only inconvenient on these roads, but also present danger to themselves and motorists as well.

The Glebe lane is lined with houses for which it is the only way to get to town (Williamsburg, Richmond, or Providence Forge) Anyone living on this road must use it to travel. The road is already narrow and is also traveled by farm vehicles as well. During these races, it becomes even more difficult for these people to navigate.

I certainly understand it is a scenic ride, and I am proud of our area in particular. All the bicyclists on Saturday were very courteous. If there were ever any way to construct a safe bicycle lane or path along The Glebe, I would very much endorse it. It pains me to say this, but would you [Cap2Cap organizers] please strongly consider utilizing the existing bike path along Route 5 and not coming along The Glebe Lane and Wilcox Neck Road the next time you have a race?

Matt Partain
Charles City