Hundreds of cyclists filled Center City streets Friday in a protest ride demanding stronger protections for bikers and pedestrians in Philadelphia.
The demonstration came just days after 67-year-old Harry Fenton, a member of advocacy group Philly Bike Action, was killed in a hit-and-run crash while riding in West Fairmount Park. Riders held a moment of silence in his honor.
Friday’s ride echoed a similar protest one year ago following the death of Dr. Barbara Friedes, a Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia physician struck and killed by a drunk driver while riding in a Spruce Street bike lane.
“Today’s turnout makes it clear that the right choice for Spruce and Pine Streets is concrete-protected bike lanes on every block,” said Jacob Russell of Philly Bike Action on Friday. “Last year’s avoidable death of Dr. Barbara Friedes is proof that half measures do not work. Paint, plastic, and prayers are not protection. Philadelphians want safer streets. Our leaders have a responsibility to protect us.”
The ride started at the Philadelphia Art Museum and continued throughout Center City, shutting down streets to vehicle traffic in Rittenhouse Square, Graduate Hospital, Washington Square West, and Society Hill, before concluding at City Hall.
Organized by Philly Bike Action, the protest called for fully protected bike lanes across the city, particularly on Spruce and Pine streets.
So far this year, four cyclists have been killed in Philadelphia, according to the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia.
