The B&O Bike Trail is undergoing some changes with the removal of center bollards from the trail. Though due to a tragic accident that caused the untimely death of a cyclist in the Spring of 2012, the changes are a positive move forward. Richland Moves, a group that advocates for and supports active transportation options in Richland County, was instrumental in the project to remove the bollards from the bike trail.
Giuseppe Maino of Turin, Italy, and a contractor at the 179th Airlift Wing, was killed on the trail in Bellville where Ogle and East Street meet. Maino struck one of the center bollards while riding and subsequently died of internal injuries.
Richland Moves volunteer Pete Medek stated, “Because we are an advocacy group we want to make sure the trail is safe for riders to use and enjoy.”
Moved to take measures to prevent any further accidents, Medek initially met with Steve McKee, Director of Richland County City Parks and board members to propose improving trail safety standards.
The changes being implemented include replacing missing signs and adding additional signs and the removal of the center bollards. The project began in Butler.
The holes left by the removal of the poles will be filled with an asphalt mixture and leveled out.
Though it is not known what distracted the experienced cyclist causing him to strike the pole, volunteer Nelson Shogren believes that removing the bollards will prevent future incidents.
Pete Medek stated, “Because we are an advocacy group we want to make sure the trail is safe for riders to use and enjoy.”
