3-foot detection device to help TPD enforce bikeways laws

Live demonstration will occur between 2 and 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, in the parking lot of the Law Enforcement Center, 320 S. Kansas. Kansas passed the 3 foot law (K.S.A. 8-1516) in 2011. Subsequently, Topeka adopted Standard Traffic Ordinance STO 40 to enforce the state law locally. The 3 foot law mandates motor vehicles passing or overtaking bicycle give a minimum 3 feet clearance between the bicycle and car.

This measuring device, produced in Austin, Texas, by Codaxus, registers violations of the 3 foot law, indicates the distance the car is passing, in inches and records this information the whole time with a HERO 4 GoPro Silver.

“We are excited for TPD to put this device to use, making our streets even safer for bicyclists and motorists alike,” said Bill Fiander, planning director.

The Topeka Community Cycle Project raised money to purchase this device from Codaxus for use by the Topeka Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies interested in using it.

“Donations from Topeka, Northeast Kansas and even as far as Vietnam raised $2,000 to purchase the 3 foot device as well as the accompanying Go Pro,” said Andy Fry, Director of Operations with the Topeka Community Cycle Project. “In just about one week, all of the funds were committed by Topekans and others locals interested in fostering a safer, healthier community."