The vibrant cityscape of Boston is marred by a growing problem: the reckless disregard for road rules by some bicyclists and scooter riders. Their behaviors, such as running red lights, riding on sidewalks, and traveling the wrong way down one-way streets, not only disrupt the orderly flow of traffic but also pose a severe safety threat to all road users.

Observing the rise in cyclists and scooter riders brazenly breaking these rules is alarming. They weave through traffic, mount sidewalks meant for pedestrians, and egregiously ride against the flow of traffic in one-way streets. This lawless behavior forces motorists and pedestrians to react unexpectedly, creating a hazardous environment for all.

It’s important to remember that bicyclists and scooter riders, like motorists, have a legal and moral obligation to adhere to traffic rules. This includes observing traffic lights, using designated lanes, not using sidewalks, and respecting the direction of traffic. Failure to respect these rules jeopardizes safety and adds to the city’s already heavy traffic burdens.

While it’s easy to place blame solely on these rogue cyclists and scooter users, the issue also calls for the local government’s attention. Current infrastructure inadequately supports these modes of transportation, possibly leading to the lawlessness we witness. A dedicated, well-maintained network of bike and scooter lanes, combined with stricter traffic law enforcement, could mitigate the problem.

Education is another potent tool. Schools, community organizations, and local authorities should collaborate to educate riders about traffic rules and the potential consequences of reckless behavior. By fostering a sense of responsibility and understanding, we can encourage safer practices and adherence to traffic laws.

Cyclists and scooter riders, while part of the problem, are also part of the solution. They represent a greener, often more efficient mode of transportation in our bustling city. Yet, the growing disregard for road rules demands urgent attention.

We need a concerted effort from all stakeholders: city officials, law enforcement, cyclists, scooter riders, drivers, and pedestrians to restore order and safety. Through stricter law enforcement, infrastructure improvement, and education, we can tackle the problem of lawlessness on Boston’s streets. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that Boston remains a safe, harmonious, and efficient city for all.

Sean Crosby

Woburn

Most people had no idea who Antony Blinken was, but John McCain did.  Senator McCain said of Blinken in 2014, “This individual has actually been dangerous to America and to the young men and women who are fighting (for) and serving it.”  As an Afghanistan veteran that witnessed in horror as Blinken architected the largest failure of American policy – without being fired to this day – since Saigon, I’d say John McCain was spot on, doubly so considering his comments were specifically in regards to the Afghanistan policies Blinken held back then, which horrifically and presciently came to fruition in October of 2021.

Nick McNulty

Windham NH