[eswoo]

Riding on sidewalk is often safer for everyone, though. And, in some places I've lived, it's only illegal in specific marked areas of high foot-traffic. The police maybe shouldn't be giving advice that is technically illegal (if it was), but it may have been pragmatic advice, at least.

Personally, as a biker, I get slightly annoyed by pedestrians who seem to think I have little control or awareness. I ride on the road where practical, and, if on sidewalk, I go much more slowly and sometimes just get off and walk if the area calls for it. Generally, bikers are much more aware of their surroundings than drivers (both out of self-preservation and an unobstructed, elevated view).

Of course, the best solution is fully separated paths for walkers, bikers, and cars. And, in this instance, it looks like there is ample room for building that, with no street parking to complicate things (and the sidewalk also looks wide and sparsely used).