Beware Bollard Bases!
I’ve experienced two bike accidents recently. On July 22, I was rearended by another rider (on a club group ride, the Tuesday Morning Double Challenge). My bike needed a new rear derailleur hanger and a wheel true. I was not injured.
On August 1, I enjoyed a training ride along the Westside Regional Trail – until I crashed. (This was not a club ride.) At WRT, I enjoy the series of rollers and varied scenery. In the middle, the Tualatin Hills Nature Park offers bathrooms and water. Nearby, you can board light rail or shop at Costco (Jenkins Road.). The trail system, plus Waterhouse Trail further north, sits below high electrical wires.
Beware unmarked raised bollard bases that extend above grade! I discovered this at PGE’s driveway to St. Mary’s substation (off SW 158th). Two sets of fixed bollards are properly painted yellow. But the center bollard receptacles extend two or three inches above grade. With shade, those receptacles are not visible. As I greeted an approaching walker, my bike rode over a raised bollard holder. ✎ I slid. My bike sustained a dented rim and damaged tire. I scraped my elbow, hip and knee, and I have lingering shoulder pain.
On August 5, I reported the hazard to a PGE service coordinator (503-323-6700). I asked that PGE either clearly paint around the raised bollard receptacles or better yet reset the bollard holders to flush with grade. It turns out that the bollards in question are property of Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District, not PGE. THPRD’s Nature & Trails Supervisor, Greg Creager, is looking into the best way to mark the raised bollard receptacles. I will keep you informed of THPRD’s response.
Please report bike hazards along trails and roadways! Like for many of you, bike accidents interrupt fun, friendly group rides.
Bob Glascock, Club Member