Prohibited bicycle traffic to Juodkrantė: “Luckily there was no accident”

“We invite cyclists to celebrate in Palanga or Klaipėda this month,” smiled resort mayor Darius Jasaitis.

“Lives Matter”

After the reconstruction of the Smiltynė-Juodkrantė cycle path began, cyclists were still allowed to ride on the road for some time.

However, as the weather warms and the flow of travelers increases, it is estimated that it is dangerous for both the cyclists themselves and the drivers. The road leading to Juodkrantė is quite narrow, overtaking is prohibited.

“We realized that traffic on this road is impossible for both bicycles and cars. We are for ecology, but life is more important”, said D. Jasaitis.

According to him, this road must also be used by the builders building the bicycle path. Transports building materials. Travels of local residents were also disrupted.

The mayor of Neringa pointed out that the majority of cyclists come to the resort without helmets or special vests. “It’s lucky that no accident happened,” he noted.

According to the mayor, it is better to focus now on the reconstruction of the bicycle path.

Endure and later enjoy a great trail. The reconstruction is expected to last until June 20. However, D. Jasaitis, observing the pace of work, predicted that the trail will be completed sooner.

Traffic on this road is always monitored by police officers. The mayor did not know if any cyclist was fined. “We talked about giving a warning, but I don’t know what kind of punishment was given,” he explained.

The ban took effect on Friday.

Considered transporting bikes by bus

Darius Jasaitis did not hide that an alternative was also considered – to take cyclists to Juodkrantė by special transport. However, after consulting with the travelers themselves, it became clear that the goal of cyclists is not Juodkrantė itself, but the journey. After going to Juodkrantė by bus, the cyclists’ plans would no longer make sense.

Most of them arrive by ferry and go to Juodkrantė. After spending a few hours here, they travel back. “Cyclists want to ride bikes, not buses. Now we suggest to enjoy Klaipėda and Palanga, and to try the new trail at the end of June”, said the mayor.

After the reconstruction, the bicycle path will be wider – almost 3.5 meters wide. If necessary, it will also be available to special services.

Work is being carried out on two sections of the track – from 2.104 to 2.956 km and from 2.956 to 15.567 km. The price of the works will reach about 5.8 million. euros.

Another part of the trail from Juodkrantė to Preila is currently being designed. They are planned to be arranged next year.