4 MARCH 2009

MEDIA RELEASE - EXECUTIVE DEPUTY MAYOR OF CAPE TOWN

ROAD USERS REMINDED TO “THINK BIKE” IN CAPE TOWN

The City of Cape Town is extremely concerned at the increasing number of incidents on the roads of Cape Town, with emphasis on those involving motorcyclists and cyclists. Many road users complain about a lack of respect and awareness.

While the City continues to fulfil its role in terms of roads and transport matters relating to vehicles and licensing, law enforcement, driver training and education, the provision and maintenance of municipal roads, and so forth, there remain clear limitations in terms of what the municipality can do in terms of the Constitution and relevant Acts.

A key priority for the City of Cape Town, in conjunction with other stakeholders, is to increase awareness amongst all road users of their legal and social responsibilities towards each other, in order to bring about a safer road environment.

A significant step I have taken to encourage such awareness, is the distribution of some 50,000 Think Bike stickers (see example) - a highly visible, mobile and cost effective medium.

Furthermore, all Cape Town-based entrants who complete the Cycle Tour this year will receive a sticker with their certificate, while Think Bike will distribute the balance of this initial batch to road users via vehicle, motorcycle and bicycle shops and clubs based in Cape Town.

I would encourage other municipalities and businesses to follow the City of Cape Towns' example, and to help raise awareness of road use safety amongst all users.

Issued by: Jacques Maritz, Media Manager in the Office of the Executive Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, Cllr Grant Haskin

Media queries:

Cllr Grant Haskin – 082 7888 708, 021 400 1311

Example of Sticker