KEY BISCAYNE, FLA. (WSVN) - Bike lane barriers have been put up in the village of Key Biscayne in an effort to protect bicyclists from dangerous drivers.
Miami-Dade County crews lined the Rickenbacker Causeway with orange cones on Friday, separating the road from the lanes along the shoulder that cyclists use.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said the goal is to take immediate steps in order to keep cyclists safe.
Bicyclist Nathan Obando spoke with 7News on Saturday about the barriers. He said he appreciates the extra layer of protection.
“It’s just another physical barrier for us,” he said.
Crews also lowered the speed limit along the causeway, from the Key Biscayne Toll Plaza to the Crandon Park Marina.
The moves were made after two cyclists were killed on the causeway when they were struck by a car last weekend.
Police identified the victims as 49-year-old Yaudys Vera and 46-year-old Ogniana Reyes.
Vera leaves behind two teenage children, and Reyes leaves behind one teen.
“It’s sad. It’s a tragedy,” said Obando.
Cycling is a new hobby for Obando, one he said he intends to continue pursuing while pedaling alongside South Florida drivers.
“It’s free exercise, is all fun,” he said.
Obando said the barriers are a great start, but they put accountability on the drivers.
“The cones are nice, but they’re easily knocked over,” he said. “I think the number one thing that should change is driver awareness, you know? Having them be more focused on exactly what’s happening.”
Cycling enthusiasts have asked the county to install a permanent barrier in an effort to keep riders safe.
The driver involved the fatal crash stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The motorist was cited and released.
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