Hidden River Trail to open to cyclists

Hidden River Trail in Lakewood Ranch no longer will be restricted to traditional vehicular traffic.

Manatee County commissioners today voted to open the two-lane divided roadway to cyclists, as well.

Since the roadway opened in 2005, bicycles have not been allowed on it, according to signs posted along the road. 

There is a 10-foot wide multi-purpose path that runs along the roadway for bicycles and pedestrians. However, local cycling groups use the road anyway and have asked to continue to do so because they feel it is safer than using the multi-purpose path.

“I think the bicycle clubs should stay on the road,” Commissioner Robin DiSabatino said. “If they’re on the sidewalk, they’re going to take people out.”

Board members agreed the multi-use path is better suited for walkers, joggers and leisure bicycling, but not cyclists traveling at about 20 mph.