On Track

My friend who works for the Lee County Sheriff’s department said I should call the sheriff’s department to ask about obtaining a permit for the Ride. I’m calling it a Ride for now because I’m not very creative — it’s the best I can do. I called the sheriff’s department this morning and spoke with the desk sergeant. He wasn’t aware of any permit requirements and suggested I call the Florida Highway Patrol. I spoke with a woman at the Florida Highway Patrol who said I wouldn’t need a permit but I couldn’t have an automobile follow closely behind me at a rate of speed slower than the prevailing traffic. It would be considered a hazard.

She also said there might be an ordinance in Lee County that would prevent the use of hand-cycles on bike paths. I thought that was interesting; can’t ride a bike on a bike path. I understand the concern. The hand-cycle is very low and they’re wider than a standard bike. She suggested I call Lee County government and ask about an ordinance then she gave me the number. The woman I spoke with at Lee County government said there’s no such ordinance but I should speak with a particular gentleman in the office to determine if he was aware of any problems I might encounter while cycling through Lee County. I called the gentleman and left him a message. The search continues.