Cycling at Hunter Army Airfield

As many of you are aware, some time ago non-resident cyclists were banned from riding on weekdays from Hunter Army Airfield, normally a staple of local recreational road riding.  The reasons behind it are not entirely clear.  Nevertheless, following a meeting between the base command and local cyclists including Vikki Graham and John Arney of Coastal Bicycle Touring Club and our own Frank McIntosh, the privilege of weekday riding on base has been restored!  We are grateful to Garrison Commander LTC Jose Aguilar for this change in policy, and look forward to developing a closer relationship with the base.

There are some rules cyclists will need to follow however, and we all need to keep in mind that this privilege was gained with effort, and can be lost if cyclists ignore the directives within.  Let’s be sure we can police ourselves on these:

• If arriving on bicycle, use the Montgomery, Stephenson, or Rio gate. If arriving by car, you must use the Montgomery or Stephenson gates and have State Driver’s License, Proof of Insurance, and Vehicle Registration.
• Photo ID is required for entry at the gate.
• Cyclists must obey all traffic regulations and signs on the installation.
• Riding in residential areas is not permitted.
• Bicycles will be ridden in single file.
• You must always wear a bicycle helmet and reflective belt or vest.
• During limited visibility hours (defined as 30 minutes prior to sunset until 30 minutes after sunrise), you must have an operational front (white) light and red rear reflector or combination red light and red reflector.
• Each pedal will be equipped with reflectors. The reflector on each pedal shall be so designed and situated as to be visible from the front and rear of the bicycle during darkness. If pedals do not have reflectors, reflective straps will be worn around the ankles.

CYCLING ROUTES AND TIMES: The best time to ride on Hunter Army Airfield is the weekend. Perimeter Road is the preferred ride for most cyclists. However, during certain times on weekdays, it is extremely hazardous based on competing with traffic and Soldiers conducting physical training. On weekdays, all cyclists will ride on the bike path on South Perimeter Road and Rio Road during the hours 6:00 A.M. — 9:15 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. for your safety and to allow unimpeded flow of motor vehicle traffic. Violation of this policy may result in a six-month suspension of riding privileges on Hunter Army Airfield.

Best bet for cyclists is to park outside the gate and bike in. If entering at the Stephenson gate, it is advised not to park at the Baldino’s area, as businesses have complained about extra cars parked in that lot.

Follow the rules, and we can all maintain access to riding some of the lowest traffic roads close to town. Don’t follow them, and access may be restricted once again.