Rep. McCarthey Vahey Rides 40 mi to Hartford to Support Bill on Bike Safety

Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Fairfield) joined fellow bike and pedestrian advocates on a 40-mile trip from New Haven to Hartford in support of Senate Bill #502 concerning bicycling safety and transportation options in Connecticut.

“The opportunity to ride through many of our CT communities and talk with advocates from multiple communities reinforced the importance of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to keeping young people in Connecticut, protecting our environment and creating the opportunity for economic development” Rep. McCarthy Vahey said.

The 40-mile ride began in New Haven and followed both the Farmington Valley trail and the multi-use trail immediately adjacent to the CT FastTrack. Upon arrival in Hartford, advocates met with legislators to advocate for passage of SB 502.

Senate Bill #502 encourages the creation of bikeways and bike lanes, seeks to allow bicyclists to determine how far to the right they can safely ride, and clarifies how motor vehicles are allowed to pass cyclists.

“This bill allows for greater flexibility in the creation of bicycling infrastructure and improves safety for today’s cyclists, commuters, recreational riders, children and the elderly,” Rep. McCarthy Vahey added. “This measure will contribute to increased safety and positive economic development that also promotes healthy practices.”

Cristin McCarthy Vahey represents Fairfield’s 133rd Assembly District. She serves on the Appropriations, Education and Transportations Committees.

See also:  Freshman Rep. McCarthy Vahey pedals to the Capitol

McCarthy Vahey arrives with fellow riders at Capitol

More of May 19 riders, joined at Capitol by Kelly Kennedy

May 19 ride organizer Ray Willis and fellow rider Doug Hausladen, both of New Haven, at Capitol