Does anyone recall the reasons for the overnight closures of the GWB for the bike path? I thought it was to save money on security. This morning though, I was coming over around 6:30am from NJ and saw a new guard coming on, with guards in the 'tower huts'. If people are watching overnight, why couldn't the bridge be open?
GWB Overnight
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 10:48am
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 11:00am
#1
bridge security
The bridge is open all night for cars.
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 11:10am
#2
Bike path
Bike path is closed from midnight to 6am.
Sun, 03/27/2005 - 5:05am
#3
it's about shifts
"My understanding is that there isn't an actual ""changing of the guards"" occuring here, but that the shift from 12am-6am was eliminated due to budget constraints. Not much to do with security, but since they don't have guards during those hours, they close the gates. Honestly though, if I rode a bike that had 50 lbs. of TNT stuffed into panniers, would the guards know the difference?
I have actually spoken to Transportation Alternatives about this matter and they told me that they are taking action. Accordingly, I will bring a petition to sign during the next club meeting. I will also distribute copies to ride leaders so we can get as many signatures as possible. Any volunteers for the Five-Borough Bike Ride?"
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 11:47am
#4
Why GWB is closed to bikes overnight
Since the Port Authority can't ban the real danger, in this case the countless cars, trucks, and buses that may be carrying explosives, they ban what is easy to ban, namely the few pedestrians and cyclists who cross the bridge between midnight and dawn. It makes no sense at all, but it's an example of a bureaucracy satisfying their need for power and control at the expense of a very small minority, without actually accomplishing anything.
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 12:00pm
#5
You're kidding right?
"""It makes no sense at all, but it's an example of a bureaucracy satisfying their need for power and control at the expense of a very small minority, without actually accomplishing anything.""
Dude, you need to get out more.
"
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 12:14pm
#6
Morty is right
"I agree with Morty. It's ridiculous to close the bridge for any extended time.
Whoever made that decision obviously doesn't bike and probably doesn't exercise at all - knows nothing of the GWB traffic flow.
I cycle the bridge in the morning and night. I can tell you .... those ""guards"" do nothing - no walking, no talking and don't even turn on the lights inside their ""shelters"" when they are inside. They get paid and I believe the guard cutback was to help the budget.
They should open the path again 24 hours.
BTW, I guess you don't use the GWB much."
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 12:35pm
#7
"""BTW, I guess you don't use the GWB much.""
Ummm ... probably more than you in actual fact. But, strangely enough, never between the hours of midnight and 6am.
"
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 12:39pm
#8
What is your point?
Dude, you need to explain your problem with his statement - which makes sense to me.
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 12:19pm
#9
Well said, Mordecai!
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 4:12pm
#10
Anyone try?
Has anyone tried hitting the bridge at 5:30 am or 12:30am?
One night, or morning, I might have to check it out.
Fri, 03/25/2005 - 6:18pm
#11
"Every year in late July or early August, Alfredo Garcia and I lead a group from Chelsea Piers at midnight, over the GWB at about 1AM, then down the NJ side and through the Lincon Tunnel (with police escort.) Then we spend the rest of the wee hours at a diner in Chelsea. Considering the GWB's ""hours,"" we'll either need to negotiate passage or start earlier...
Shameless plug, this is a really fun little ride! Keep your eyes open for it.
:)"
