Pershing Bikeway aims to improve safety for cyclists as construction is about to begin

SAN DIEGO — Construction of the Pershing Bike Path in North Park is scheduled to begin Monday morning.

Construction will temporarily close Pershing Drive to pedestrians and cyclists until Valentine’s Day on February 14. However, southbound traffic can pass on the road, but northbound travelers will have to take a detour.

The long-awaited cycle route was supposed to start in early 2020, but has since been pushed back. SANDING estimates that construction will be completed within the next two years.

The road that runs through Balboa Park and connects downtown to North Park is known for its fast speeds.

“To be completely honest, I’ve only cycled here a few times because it’s not safe,” said BIKESD rider Ike Warner.

The speed limit on the road is 50 mph and makes it dangerous for cyclists to ride on the road.

“There were two deaths last year in Pershing alone,” Warner said.

One of those killed was John A. Sepulveda, who was hit by a 17-year-old while riding a scooter with his family in September last year.

“He just spread so much love with all of us and within our family, so our lives have been turned upside down since that night,” Sepulveda’s sister Kristy Leon said.

Sepulveda’s family sets up a memorial scholarship for two Corona High School students.

Leon says they are looking for students who embody Sepulveda.

“Johnny, I’ll be honest, he wasn’t the straight kid in high school, and I just want it to go to a kid to let them know that doesn’t define who you are in life,” he said. she declared. “Your character is what really defines you and that’s Johnny’s story.”

To assist or contact the Sepulveda family with the scholarship, please contact them at Facebook Where Twitter.