Yesterday morning I did my bike ride as I do 4-5 days of each week. Lady with her big, snow white husky blocking the (one way) path around one of the ponds on the Big Creek Greenway... five or six miles from returning to my car. I gave the standard courtesy warning... "on your left." She started turning to the left, with her dog on her right. As I approached closer, I said again, "on your left!." She continued to turn to face me as if to find out who I was. As I got closer still, I said, "move to your right PLEASE!" She stepped into my path on the left forcing me onto the narrow, wet, muddy shoulder. I didn't have a chance... ended up wiping out as I tried to turn back onto the concrete path. There was nothing I could have done to avoid the accident. (it is a handmade Italian racing bike and my feet are clipped onto the pedals.... the seat is too high to put your feet down on the pavement while riding. The tires are thin with 150 lb of pressure, not meant for off-road at all.) I'll probably have more pains when I wake up tomorrow morning.
"On your left" is the long-standing, standard warning that cyclists say to pedestrians, joggers and other bike riders when coming up from behind. The rule is to issue this warning and always pass on the left. This is even posted on the large billboards at the beginning of the greenway entrances. This woman doesn't have a clue. She was already blocking the path (with her dog) and even when she was looking me in the eye, seconds prior, she stepped to the left right into my path.
I had to ask off work tomorrow as my right foot is badly swollen and black and blue. This senseless accident will end up costing me hundreds of dollars in doctor bills and time off work because of an ignorant woman. I am VERY defensive bike rider and very cautious. Especially on weekends there are tons of people walking in groups, with their children, pushing baby carriages, walking dogs with long leases stretched across the path, etc., and otherwise blocking the path with their mind(s) in "la la land." There are billboards posted at the entrances to the Big Creek Greenway indicated that bike riders will say, "on your left" when passing others (always on the left).
There needs to be more "police" in the area enforcing the rules on weekends. It is very dangerous to bike riders who pay taxes just like...
Read moreWinter Time in Rock Mill Park
Visiting this park has been a refreshing experience so far. It’s lively and bustling with families, creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. The sounds of children playing and the chirping of birds add to the park’s charm.
One of the first things that caught my attention was the variety of birds flying around. There seem to be thoughtfully placed birdhouses throughout the park, providing a safe haven for them. It’s a small but impactful detail that shows care for the local wildlife.
The park’s cleanliness is also commendable. The walking tracks are well-maintained, making it a pleasure to stroll around. Additionally, I haven’t come across any litter, which speaks to both the park’s upkeep and the respectfulness of its visitors.
I also noticed the park is a hub for different types of athletes. Cyclists are a common sight, and it seems like a popular spot for people to train. Whether you’re walking your pet, meeting up with friends, or just enjoying some downtime, this park truly feels like a one-stop destination that offers it all.
However, I did notice couple of rotting trees about 30-40 feet high. While they don’t detract from the park’s overall beauty, they might pose safety concerns if left unchecked.
Overall, this park offers a serene yet lively environment with something for everyone—athletes, families, pet owners, and friends alike. It’s the perfect package for a...
Read moreRock mill park is a small but endearing place to spend your weekend. It feels like a hidden nook in the city of Alpharetta and it has plenty of seating and other amenities (clean bathrooms, water fountains, shade and shelter, and free parking) that make it worth visiting. Most notably, it’s connected to the Alpharetta greenway (a concrete-paved nature trail that is 8+ miles long and surrounded by trees and wildlife). If you’re an abuse biker and like biking in the middle of a pretty forest but don’t want to be too far from civilization, this is the park and trail for you. Additionally there are some really nice flowers planted at the park with signs explaining what they are! Spent a great afternoon here with a friend and planning to go back when the weather...
Read more