Bike advocates intensify calls for more protections after DA announces charges for drunk driver that killed Barbara Friedes

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — As Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner announced the charges against 68-year-old Michael Vahey, who struck and killed CHOP doctor Barbara Friedes last week in Center City, bike advocates spoke of the need for safer streets for those like Friedes, who was riding her bike when she was fatally struck.

They renewed calls for measures like concrete barriers between roadways and bike lanes, elevated bike lanes, and more designated bike lanes overall to protect bicyclists from cars.

Jessi West with Neighborhood Bike Works said the barriers, specifically, will save lives.

“These measures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and make our streets more safe and welcoming for cyclists,” she said.

Chris Gale, executive director of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, called Friedes’ death a “terrible tragedy that has affected our community deeply.” He also remembered when the coalition fought for bike lanes on Spruce and Pine Streets in 2009, but more is needed.

Beyond the barriers between bike lanes and roadways, Gale also pushed for more signage and safer intersections.

Nicole Brunet, policy director with the coalition, directed criticism at the city's new budget, which saw cuts to spending on efforts to reduce traffic deaths.

“We are once again asking our city officials to invest in Vision Zero, and build protected bike lanes, real protected bike lanes all over the city for vulnerable users, for drivers, for the safety of all Philadelphians,” she said.

In response, Mayor Cherelle Parker said she moved some of the money to the Streets Department for measures such as speed pads for slowing traffic in high crash areas.

"We see very spirited advocacy and this is the time when I expect them to push hard and fight hard so we are not in any way shape or form on opposite sides. The city is committed to Vision Zero. I am committed to Vision Zero,” Parker said.

Bike Action Philly is holding a protest ride from the Art Museum to City Hall on Friday night, to further call out the mayor for what they see as a “lack of action” — a characterization that Parker refutes.

"The $6.37 billion budget contains a litany of vehicles — traffic-calming measures, continued enhancement of the red light camera program — so we are doing what we need to do to make Philadelphia roadways safe," she said.

“Barbara's tragic death underscores that there is more work to be done. Let's use this moment not as a point of blame, but as a call to action to improve safety measures and seek justice for cyclists like Barbara.”