SWFBUD Welcomes Tampa's New Police Chief -- Bicyclist and Chief Jane Castor

SWFBUD welcomes Tampa's new police chief -- Jane Castor, who happens to be a big bicyclist.

When I asked the city of Tampa and city police to stop advising bicyclists that it was illegal to bike across the Gandy Bridge (with the TrailBridge closed), it was Castor who contacted me personally to tell me that she would tell the officers that it was legal to pedal across the Gandy Bridge.

This was in response to several bicyclists earlier this year who reported that they were stopped by Tampa city police from crossing the Gandy Bridge.

I hope Chief Castor -- as a bicyclist -- makes sure that her police force enforces the Florida law that requires drivers to give at least a three-foot buffer when passing a bicyclist on the road.

SWFBUD wishes Chief Castor good luck and to keep on cycling.