Oklahoma City is pulling barrier posts from its bike paths after cyclists reported crashing into them and suffering serious injuries.

The metal posts, called bollards, were installed to keep cars off the trails. But Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation said the bollards themselves have become a hazard. Carrie Coppernoll Jacobs, public information officer for the department, told KFOR on Sept. 10 that high-speed collisions with the posts were "causing catastrophic injuries among our cyclists."

The Oklahoma City Police Department (OKCPD) raised safety concerns about the change. OKCPD warned that removing the bollards could allow cars onto the paths, according to KFOR's reporting. No named OKCPD spokesperson has made a public statement on the issue.

The city said signage and pavement markings will remain in place to warn drivers that vehicles are not permitted on the trails. Coppernoll Jacobs said the department is also exploring new barrier options, though specifics and a budget have not been announced.

Local bike shop owners are split.

Mark Otto, owner of Bike One, said customers have come into his shop reporting injuries from hitting the bollards. He called the posts a safety hazard for cyclists. But Otto acknowledged the tradeoff. "The other side of it is, first of all, vehicular access to the trails. That's something you don't want," Otto said.

Mike Holmes, general manager of Sun and Ski Sports and a cyclist himself, said the bollards served a practical purpose beyond keeping cars out. He worried that removing them could create confusion because the posts helped riders understand left and right sides of the path.

The city has not said how many bollards are being removed, which paths are affected or when the work will be completed. Officials have not announced a public comment period or a City Council vote on the decision, which appears to be an administrative move by Parks and Recreation.

Coppernoll Jacobs said the department is watching for new barrier options as budget allows.