Rule breakers endanger others

I read with interest the Aug. 20 article regarding the barriers across the Centennial Trail (“Barriers bother bicyclists”). Yes, the barriers are an inconvenience, but they do provide an effective way to keep cyclists safe while crossing some of the more heavily-traveled roads which intersect the trail. I found it ironic that an article discussing safety and accidents on the trail would feature a picture of a cyclist wearing improper cycling shoes (sandles) and no helmet.

My entire family has used the trail on a regular basis since we moved to Snohomish nine years ago, and we have found that the barriers are not the real danger there. It is those users who do not follow the rules of the trail and of common sense who endanger us the most. Free roaming pets, small, unsupervised children, and those not inclined toward courteous, responsible trail use pose a far greater risk than those pesky white barriers. I have had only one mishap in my years of using the trail, caused by a young child turned loose on the trail long before he understood the park rules and trail etiquette. Please follow the rules, and wear a helmet.

Snohomish