SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (KCBS)--A broad coalition has formed to improve pedestrian safety in San Francisco, not where you might expect on congested streets but on the city's sidewalks.
The Senior Action Network is part of that coalition. Board president Bill Price emphasized they're trying to work out disputes with the cycling community.
"Bicyclists are working a little better, the skateboarders, we have to kind of cut them back," said Price.
Given the heavy vehicle traffic, a lot of bikers use the sidewalk. Seniors now have a "Sidewalks are for Pedestrians" campaign. Andy Thornley with the SF Bicycle Coalition offered his support.
"It's never a good idea to ride your bike on the sidewalk," cautioned Thornley. "You should almost always be in the street."
Violators should be warned that police plan to write more tickets for infractions.
Bert Hill, chairman of the city's Bicycle Advisory Committee recommends bike school as well.
"What you learn in these classes is riding a bicycle on a sidewalk is incredibly dangerous for bicycles, not just for pedestrians," Hill cautioned.
Local authorities support that added education.
"When we issue a ticket for a bicyclist or motorists that caused a bicycle violation, they can take bicycle safety," offered San Francisco Police Department Segeant Bob Guinan.
He told KCBS local courts are working on a diversion program for bicyclists who are cited.
Some local leaders are lending their support to the notion of a more peaceful coexistence on the sidewalks and city streets.
"Making sure that our sidewalks are civil," stressed San Francisco Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi.
Mirkarimi represents the Sunset District and told KCBS he knows the dangers for cyclists and pedestrians alike.
"The epicenter of what is an incredibly busy automobile, pedestrian, bicycle, mass transit hub," he described the neighborhood.
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KCBS' George Harris reports
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