Ron, the purpose of that buffer is to prevent inattentive auto drivers from dooring bicyclists. That's also the reason why the bicycle lane was on the left side of the traffic lanes prior to the restriping.

so Ron thinks cars needed protecting but people don't?

You are such an urbanite. I think the space on it too large on the bike path side. What about the people getting out on the passenger side of a car when the cars are parked on the left side of the road? Their car doors could be hit by a passing car dong way over the speed limit or worse, the passenger getting out of the car could be hit. So how is that Not trying to PROTECT PEOPLE????

As an avid biker I can protest that the large bike lanes and buffers are absolutely necessary for the safety of bikers. Countless times there are delivery vehicles, people parking too far from the curb, parked cars opening the doors inches away from me and almost taking me out, etc. The buffer is there for a reason. In winter parked cars take up the bike lane because of the ice blockage on the curb so that buffer becomes even more necessary in winter. But i agree maybe cones or better sognahe or hell, another good plow all the way to the curb so that cars stop driving in that lane!! It drives me batty as a driver too!!