The purpose of SSDD

On April 19, 2009, Dan Hersh was killed when his bicycle was hit from behind on Shore Drive by an SUV. This is the latest of a string of fatal accidents involving bicyclists, pedestrians, and motor vehicles. Also, numerous other individuals have been injured, riding their bicycles or walking and running on Shore Drive.

The 2004 Bikeways & Trails Plan had input for "Desired Bicycle Routes" and "[t]he Northampton Boulevard/Shore Drive corridor was ranked #1 more than 2 to 1 over other routes listed." Also, in recent months, both Cape Henry and Cape Story Civic Leagues have requested that the speed limit on Shore Drive be reduced from 45 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour in their neighborhood.

In view of this, Virginia Bicycling Federation, Tidewater Bicycle Association, and Kokoamos Island Bar, Grill & Yacht Club, which is very concerned about the safety of its patrons, have decided to sponsor Share Shore Drive Day. Bicyclists will ride on Shore Drive between Lake Shores Road (aka Helicopter Road at Little Creek NAB), Kokoamos and First Landing State Park.

The purpose of this ride is to call attention to the need to cycle safely, to have all users of Shore Drive share it safely, to emphasize the need for bicycle lanes on the roadway, and to advocate for more equitable treatment for bicyclists in bicycle-motor vehicle crashes.

The ride will take place on Saturday July 11, starting at 7:30 AM. Participants should be there at least 20 minutes early. The speed of the ride will be between 10 and 12 miles per hour, so that cyclists of all levels will be able to participate.