BOARDWALK ETIQUETTE

Living by the South Jersey shoreline, I am privileged to have the beach and boardwalk a block away from my home. I anxiously await the summer season and the temperature to warm so I can begin my mornings with a bike ride on the boardwalk. Along with the summer season also come the throngs of visitors who share the same love of sand between their toes and the smell of the sea air. One being my brother who came to visit this Memorial Day weekend with my sister-in-law. I encouraged them to take a bike ride and enjoy the morning on the boardwalk. My brother returned with a story of a man riding while talking on his cell phone obstructing the flow of bike traffic. The other bikers felt it necessary to scold him and make him aware of his rudeness although to no avail. The biker continued his cell phone conversation without any acknowledgement of those around him.

The boardwalk is a valued treasure in our community and is shared by many especially in the summer - walkers, bikers, runners, skaters. It is important to encourage safety and respect so with a few boardwalk etiquette tips both locals and seasonal visitors can harmoniously enjoy all the boardwalk has to offer:

1. Always adhere to the local laws of the community usually posted on the boardwalk regarding biking hours and dog walking.

2. The boardwalk is not for hardcore biking enthusiasts, better to find a less congested route.

3. Pull off to a side street for cell phone use including placing a call, texting, etc., during crowded biking hours or use a handsfree listening device to answer a call.

4. Everyone including bikers, walkers, runners should stay to the right and move with the flow of traffic and not against it.

5. Walk, ride, or run as far right near the railing as possible for those who are moving faster and would like to pass. Pass on the left and alert those in front you are passing. Wait for oncoming traffic to clear before passing.

6. Large groups need to be aware of monopolizing the width of the boardwalk especially in narrow areas.

7. Beware of stopping, chatting, and obstructing the flow of traffic. Position bikes parellel to railing and stand close to the side as posssible.

8. Look both ways before entering and crossing the boardwalk.

9. Parents should review safety rules with their children before riding on the boardwalk.

10. Awareness and common courtesy can make for an enjoyable experience for all.