http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/ News from Alliance member organizations. Post your own news and leave a comment to participate in the discussion.. en nadege.dub@gmail.com Copyright 2010 2010-03-08T17:54:44+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_texas_co-hosts_the_texas_trail_and_active_transportation_conference/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_texas_co-hosts_the_texas_trail_and_active_transportation_conference/#When:17:54:44Z For the first time, Bike Texas co-hosted the Texas Trail and Active Transportation Conference with the Texas Trails Network on February 3-6, 2010. Attendees included renowned speakers, city and state bike/pedestrian and Safe Routes to School coordinators, trail builders and advocates, elected officials, engineers and planners, and bike shop owners from around the state. Bike Texas made clear at the conference that many of the improvements they want to see for biking and walking will only come with policy changes, and the vision and leadership of elected officials.  The combined attendance of speakers and attendees made the Texas Trails and Active Transportation Conference a great success and is sure to positively influence the state’s future in increasing walking and biking. For more information visit BikeTexas.org Member News 2010-03-08T17:54:44+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sf_bicycle_coalition_to_welcome_12_more_trial_street_plazas_and_parklets/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sf_bicycle_coalition_to_welcome_12_more_trial_street_plazas_and_parklets/#When:17:23:39Z The SF Bicycle Coalition recently celebrated the official opening of the “Showplace Triangle” street plaza (at 8th and 16th streets) where San Francisco’s mayor Gavin Newsom, announced that the City’s Pavement to Parks program will be completing 12 more trial street plazas and “parklets” by the end of 2010. This program takes car parking spots and other street spaces and transforms them into various gathering spots for the community. Since the very first plaza opening in May 2009, the trial street reclamations have proven to be very successful and popular among the public. The new public spaces are built after the idea of PARK(ing) Day, where automobile parking spots are turned into mini public spaces for a day. These temporary spaces include mini-gardens, bike parking, plazas, etc. The SF Bike Coalition will continue to work closely with the Pavement to Parks program through their own Great Streets Project in order to scout good locations and connect community groups and businesses with the city’s program. For more information: Great Streets Project: http://sfgreatstreets.org/ Pavement to Parks Program: http://sfpavementtoparks.sfplanning.org/ PARK(ing) Day: http://www.parkingday.org/ SF Bicycle Coalition: http://www.sfbike.org/ Member News 2010-03-08T17:23:39+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/act_act_introduced_alliance_announces_virtual_lobby_day/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/act_act_introduced_alliance_announces_virtual_lobby_day/#When:17:54:15Z Representative Earl Blumenauer(OR) just introduced the Active Community Transportation Act, H.R.4722, on March 2nd 2010. This groundbreaking bill creates a competitive grant program with $2 Billion to help communities build bicycling and walking networks. For the first time, communities would be able to compete for multi-year funding to build active transportation systems, just as they do for transit and road infrastructure. “Too often we take for granted the value of being able to bike and walk to work,” said Blumenauer. “It’s unfortunate that many communities don’t have the infrastructure in place to make active and healthy forms of transportation more accessible. The ACT transportation grants will make it easier for people to get out of their vehicles and onto sidewalks or bikes, boosting both heart rates and community vitality.” In conjunction with the National Bike Summit the Alliance is asking that you call your representative next Thursday, March 11th at the same time that over 700 Summit participants will have in-person meetings in congressional offices for a Virtual Lobby Day. For all the details, visit the Alliance action center. Member News 2010-03-03T17:54:15+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/23_million_in_a_tiger_grant_for_philadelphia_and_camden/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/23_million_in_a_tiger_grant_for_philadelphia_and_camden/#When:18:39:40Z The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) worked with six counties and agencies in Pennsylvania and New Jersey to secure $23 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary Grant Program. This multi-jurisdictional project, called Generating Recovery by Enhancing Active Transportation in Pennsylvania and New Jersey (GREAT-PA/NJ), will help complete a network of biking and walking trails throughout the region, focused on connections to urban hubs in Philadelphia and Camden. The Bicycle Coalition and PEC assembled the proposal along with Mayor’s Office of Transportation and Utilities and Mayor Nutter’s Metropolitan Caucus. The proposal received letters of support from more than 52 elected officials, institutions and non-profit organizations, including all four senators and eight members of congress in the region.For more info visit the BCGP blog. 2010-02-23T18:39:40+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/transportation_alternatives_proposes_bike_buddy_program/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/transportation_alternatives_proposes_bike_buddy_program/#When:21:14:12Z Transportation Alternatives is competing for a $250,000 grant that will enable cyclists from all over the country to connect with fellow bike commuters nearby—but they need your vote to win it! Streets all across the country are getting safer for cycling, but until the roads catch up, riding with a friend is one of the best ways to stay safe. Using Pepsi’s Refresh Everything grant, T.A. will develop a new generation of mobile and web applications to connect cyclists who share the same roads every day. The goal: 500,000 new cyclists on the road, encouraged by the ability to ride with a buddy. It’s called “Bike Buddy.” Transportation Alternatives Director of Bicycle Advocacy, Caroline SamponaroIf, says “If we win this online voting competition, we would be able to collectively develop a new generation of mobile and web applications to connect cyclists who share the same roads every day. We would be linking newbies and seasoned riders—the sort of one-rider-at-a-time interaction that makes for a strong cycling community. We would pilot the program in five American cities, and with enough funding, many more thereafter.” By voting for T.A., you’ll help usher in a new wave of green, urban-friendly bike commutes.  You can vote once per day, so come back over and over! To vote, visit http://www.refresheverything.com/BikeBuddy. For more information on Transportation Alternatives and the Bike Buddy Program visit www.refresheverything.com/BikeBuddy and www.transalt.org. Member News 2010-02-22T21:14:12+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mcbc_welcomes_new_multi_use_pathway_connecting_local_schools/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mcbc_welcomes_new_multi_use_pathway_connecting_local_schools/#When:04:05:53Z MCBC’s goal of steadily improving biking and walking facilities within Marin County is gaining momentum with a newly completed multi-use pathway in the city of Larkspur connecting neighborhoods to local schools and parks. The new ADA-compliant pathway replaces what used to be a dirt path that was primarily being used by local schoolchildren. Measure A Safe Routes to School funded the new multi-use trail which also included 54 trees planted along the pathway, a soon-to-be installed bench with a great view of Mount Tamalpais, and a fence to delineate the pathway from the High School property. The path is increasing the amount of children walking and biking to school and is attracting many other members of the community to walk or bike along the path. MCBC will continue to support the city of Larkspur for their continued commitment to improving the non-motorized transportation system within the City. Visit www.marinbike.org/Index.shtml for more information. Member News 2010-02-22T04:05:53+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/columbus_businesses_join_considerbikings_cycling_corporate_caucus/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/columbus_businesses_join_considerbikings_cycling_corporate_caucus/#When:03:58:56Z Consider Biking has convened a Cycling Corporate Caucus representing more than twenty of Columbus’ largest employers. Since the formation of the caucus in 2009, Consider Biking has held meetings, and in partnership with Leadership Columbus, developed a “Two-Wheel Toolkit”. Consider Biking introduced the toolkit in a meeting with many of Columbus’ largest organizations’ CEOs, presenting information on encouraging employees to bicycle more and providing targeted resources for each specific audience within a business. ConsiderBiking activated the caucus in late December in order to speak in unified support of a funding request on behalf of the city of Columbus to implement the Columbus Bike Plan. The caucus drafted a “case for support” that demonstrated why investment in bicycling is good for Columbus’ community’s health and economic efforts, but also for a business’s bottom line. Consider Biking states “We had over 20 of our community’s most prominent business leaders & CEOs, sign our letter of support. No doubt - our business leaders “get it” We believe major organizations and workforces have the ability to affect behavior change quickly.  That’s why we’re placing a significant effort on our worksite intervention Mode Shift program. (Bike to Work and Bike Away from Work).” For more information about the “Two Wheel Toolkit” and to learn more about how the caucus is affecting its community, visit http://www.considerbiking.org/activities/consulting/ Member News 2010-02-22T03:58:56+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_celebrates_another_new_bike_lane/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_celebrates_another_new_bike_lane/#When:03:53:24Z According to the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (SFBC), “SFBC is celebrating another new bike lane on Otis Street which has created an important one block link between South Van Ness and Gough Street. Otis Street is the ninth new bike lane to be striped since December. These bike lanes are the direct result of years of hard work by SFBC staff and countless hours of grassroots organizing by committed Bicycle Coalition members. The Coalition is pleased to see these new improvements for bicycling being added all across San Francisco and creating important links in the bike network.” To find out more about the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and its efforts, visit sfbike.org. Member News 2010-02-22T03:53:24+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/path_trains_new_srts_evaluators/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/path_trains_new_srts_evaluators/#When:21:11:26Z Twenty-six new citizen evaluators joined Peoples Advocacy for Trails Hawai’s (PATH) HOALA project as trained Safe Routes to School evaluators on Thursday, Feb. 4th. HOALA – Hawaii’s Opportunity for Active Living Advancement – aims to help 12 Hawaii Island schools reduce childhood obesity by improving the ability for children to get to and from school by walking or bicycling. According to PATH, the new evaluators, “will help to assess the walkability and bikeability of school zones in 12 elementary schools across the island of Hawaii.  Evaluators were trained in the PEDS assessment tool and on how to conduct traffic counts and safety observations. The HOALA project is made possible by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Active Living Research Program. Elementary schools across the island with at least 35% of students on free or reduced-cost lunch are eligible to apply.  To find out more, visit the HOALA page on the PATH Web site or contact PATH at laura@pathhawaii.org.” 2010-02-18T21:11:26+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/six_walk_roll_cleveland_events_planned_for_2010/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/six_walk_roll_cleveland_events_planned_for_2010/#When:19:55:56Z According to Walk + Roll Cleveland, “ Kaiser Permanente has provided seed funding for six Walk+Roll programs in neighborhoods all over the greater Cleveland area! Saturday, May 15 in Cleveland’s Kamm’s Corners neighborhood will kick off the 2010 Summer of walking and rolling! Walk+Roll is partnering with Taste of Kamms which is a new event to celebrate this family-friendly neighborhood and it’s streetscaped Lorain Avenue. Other neighborhoods and dates will be revealed soon. Always free and always fun for everyone, this year’s Walk+Roll initiative will include our signature street-closings plus also free guided bicycle rides and walks to secret places you’ve probably never experienced. With six events spread over the summer and throughout the city, you will be continually reminded and encouraged to walk and bike more in your daily life which will make your world cleaner, greener, wealthier and healthier.” Walk + Roll is a ciclovia-type event that temporarily closes streets to cars and opens them to people on bike, foot, and skates. Learn more by visiting http://www.walkroll.com. 2010-02-18T19:55:56+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/better_bicycling_and_walking_coming_to_manhattans_east_side/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/better_bicycling_and_walking_coming_to_manhattans_east_side/#When:19:36:34Z According to Transportation Alternatives (T.A.), “First and Second Avenues (in New York City) are about to get a whole lot better for bikers, walkers and transit takers. In response to T.A.‘s East Side campaign, the Department of Transportation has committed to building better bus, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure from South Ferry to 125th Street. Included in the agency’s plans are bike lanes, bus lanes and improved pedestrian crossings that will not only make these notoriously congested avenues safer, but also better-performing. Though the DOT has yet to identify the exact configurations it will use when construction begins this June, all of the possibilities are huge improvements over the order-less mess that now rules the roads in this part of Manhattan, and we commend them, as well as the Volunteer Committee members, community stakeholders, local politicians and countless activists who helped the plan come together. To ensure that this wave of street reform doesn’t simply splash on to two avenues and wash away, Transportation Alternatives is organizing an East Side Streets Coalition to help spread these changes. With the support of T.A.‘s Volunteer Committees, citizens and civic organizations from East Harlem to Chinatown, the East Side Coalition plans to push for streets that reduce pedestrian and cyclist injuries and fatalities from vehicle crashes by 50% in the next decade.” T.A. is issuing a call to action. “Visit the East Side Streets Coalition website to take an online survey about current conditions and future possibilities, find out about upcoming community workshops and join the Coalition.” 2010-02-18T19:36:34+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/senate_passes_safety_act_in_mississippi/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/senate_passes_safety_act_in_mississippi/#When:17:19:57Z BikeWalk Mississippi claimed a victory on February 8th when the Senate unanimously voted to pass SB3014, the John Paul Frerer Bicycle Safety Act. The safety bill will provide additional measures to increase safety on the road for both bicyclists and pedestrians. Critical components of the legislation include the implementation of a 3 Feet rule and Anti-Harassment language to protect bicyclists. There are a few more hurdles before the bill becomes official but BikeWalk Mississippi remains active and confident stating “this is an incredible day for bicyclists around the state.” BikeWalk Mississippi extends THANK YOUs to both Chairman King and President Hewes for their amazing efforts in the Senate, “their leadership navigated the bill as well as our advocates through the legislative process.” To find out more about BikeWalk Mississippi’s efforts and the current status of the John Paul Frerer Bicycle Safety Act, visit www.bikewalkmississippi.org Member News 2010-02-11T17:19:57+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/complete_streets_bill_introduced_in_minnesota_legislature1/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/complete_streets_bill_introduced_in_minnesota_legislature1/#When:18:42:41Z On Monday, February 8th, the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota and other members of the Minnesota Complete Streets Coalition celebrated the introduction of the “Complete Streets” bill, (SF 2461/HF 2801) in the Minnesota legislature. Upon introduction, the bill had widespread support from environment, health, and transportation advocates throughout the state as well as bipartisan support in both legislative bodies.  Following the example of 18 states and more than 100 communities, the legislation aims to make Minnesota roads safer and more accessible for those who utilize all forms of transportation including transit riders, bicyclists, and pedestrians. A statewide poll by the Minnesota Environmental Partnership found that 73 percent of Minnesotans back the mission of the legislation, which would ultimately create policies that make the state’s roadways safer for all, especially the young and old. For more information on the legislation visit : http://www.bikemn.org/news_detail.cfm?id=783DB9CD-FCE9-45B4-B1B2-D80AAA96BFAB or http://www.mncompletestreets.org/ 2010-02-08T18:42:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/missouris_historic_katy_bridge_at_boonville_saved/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/missouris_historic_katy_bridge_at_boonville_saved/#When:03:07:22Z According to a press release issued by the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has announced an agreement to save the historic Katy Bridge at Boonville. This comes after Union Pacific railroad moved to abandon the railroad right-of-way through the bridge which would have threatened the legal integrity of about 165 miles of the Katy Trail (currently used for biking and walking). According to Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation: “Trail advocates across Missouri have been working years to save the bridge ‘The MKT Bridge at Boonville is beautiful, historic, and surprisingly important for the legal health of a long section of the Katy Trail,’ said Brent Hugh, Executive Director of the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation. ‘That is why trail lovers from across the state have been working for over six years to save and preserve the Katy Bridge.’ The Governor said that with the announcement of the bridge transfer, the Missouri Division of State Parks was prepared to discuss with Boonville officials how the bridge might eventually be incorporated into use by bicyclists, joggers and hikers using the nearby Katy Trail. Boonville is one of the most populous communities along the trail, which is used by more than 300,000 people each year. Several groups from across the state took steps to build support for saving the bridge. Boonville’s Save the Katy Bridge Coalition has galvanized local support and fund raising, while groups like the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation have worked to develop statewide support. Great Rivers Environmental Law Center filed legal briefs in support of then-Attorney General Nixon’s state lawsuit designed to save the bridge. ‘In 2005, when the state allowed Union Pacific to abandon the Katy Bridge without taking the proper legal steps to preserve the underlying rail corridor, it put 165 miles of the Katy Trail in a very unfortunate legal situation,’ says Hugh. ‘Transferring the bridge to the City of Boonville will resolve that legal problem while also creating a historic and tourist attraction in Boonville. And some day we’d like to see the Katy Trail re-routed to use the historic bridge.’” Background on the legal issues surrounding the Katy Bridge: http://mobikefed.org/2005/12/map-of-rail-connections-to-katy-trail.php http://mobikefed.org/2005/12/abandonment-of-boonville-bridge.php http://mobikefed.org/2005/06/removal-of-mkt-bridge-at-boonville.php —- The Missouri Bicycle & Pedestrian Federation, founded in 1994, represents the interests of bicyclists, walkers, runners, and trail users throughout Missouri. Through its network of affiliated clubs and groups, MoBikeFed represents over 15,000 Missouri citizens and speaks for the 2 million Missourians who bicycle regularly and the 5.8 million who walk. The Missouri Bicycle & Pedestrian Federation is working to realize its vision of active transportation in Missouri by creating a world-class bicycle and pedestrian network in Missouri, building a movement around walking and bicycling, encouraging more walking and bicycling, and increasing safety for all road users. Find out more or join the federation at http://MoBikeFed.org Photo: Young bicyclist on Katy Trail with Katy Bridge at Boonville pictured in back. Courtesy of the Missouri Bicycle & Pedestrian Foundation. 2010-02-05T03:07:22+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_welcomes_more_smooth_pavement/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_welcomes_more_smooth_pavement/#When:23:56:16Z The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition is continuing to see its re-paving project efforts pay off with a now smooth ride from Golden Gate Park to the Pacific Ocean. The newly paved road means a safe, smooth, and enjoyable ride for commuters and other bicyclists and a win for the Coalition. SFBC and its team of volunteers have been working hard to identify San Francisco streets and neighborhoods in need of both re-paving and adequate bike lanes through their “Good Roads” campaign. Volunteers ride the city streets and tag/spray paint the most dangerous spots. These markings are an immediate help to many cyclists, but more importantly a designated legend for the Department of Public Works (DPW) who has committed to patching and smoothing the indicated spots. To view other resurfacing updates and projects visit www.sfbike.org/?goodroads.  For more information on SFBC and the Good Roads campaign, visit www.sfbike.org Member News 2010-02-03T23:56:16+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/consider_biking_wins_take_the_lane_case/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/consider_biking_wins_take_the_lane_case/#When:19:01:04Z On January 14, Consider Biking helped reinforce the right for bicyclists to ride in the road, and take the lane if necessary. The organization provided legal defense in Municipal Court for a cyclist who was incorrectly cited for “not riding as far to the right as possible.” According to Jeff Stephens, Consider Biking’s Executive Director, “We saw this case as a critical means to reinforce the excellent bicycling (traffic) laws we helped Columbus enhance in late 2008.” Read More… Member News 2010-01-28T19:01:04+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bikemn_attends_us_dot_listening_session_in_force/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bikemn_attends_us_dot_listening_session_in_force/#When:06:00:40Z On January 25, BikeMN attended a key US DOT listening session on Surface Transportation Reauthorization with Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Congressman Jim Oberstar in Minneapolis. Dorian Grilley, Executive Director of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN), made a statement on the organization’s behalf about inconsistent spending of 402-safety money on bike/ped issues and the importance of establishing performance measures for bike/ped safety similar to those measures for motorized modes of transportation. Taking this opportunity to highlight their issues, the MN Complete Streets steering committee also met with Barbara McCann, Executive Director of the National Complete Streets Coalition for breakfast, and the organization co-sponsored a forum for the candidates for governor, bringing 11 candidates and plenty of bike/ped advocates. For more information on BikeMN, please visit: http://www.bikemn.org/index.cfm 2010-01-25T06:00:40+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/walk_oakland_bike_oakland_hires_their_first_executive_director/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/walk_oakland_bike_oakland_hires_their_first_executive_director/#When:14:56:07Z Walk Oakland Bike Oakland is delighted to introduce their very first Executive Director, Kassie Rohrbach. Kassie was one of the co-founders of Energy Action Coalition (EAC), a youth-led coalition of environmental and social justice groups. She helped grow EAC into a robust and effective organization for change. Kassie brings eight years of coalition-building, policy development, and organizational development to WOBO.  Kassie recently visited the staff at the Alliance DC office, and discussed her vision and goals for WOBO. We wish her success and know that she will keep the momentum moving forward for bicycling and walking in Oakland. For more information about Kassie and WOBO please visit http://www.walkoaklandbikeoakland.org 2010-01-22T14:56:07+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/portlands_bta_launches_build_it_campaign/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/portlands_bta_launches_build_it_campaign/#When:00:36:22Z On January 21 the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA) of Portland, OR launched a major campaign to get the Portland Bicycle Plan for 2030 adopted, funded and built. According to Michelle Poyourow of the BTA,  “We’re calling on Portland City Council to not just adopt this plan, but to take first steps right away toward getting it built. That means building new bike boulevards, new safe crossings, and new safe routes to schools in the first year… We cannot wait until year 5 or year 10 to know whether we’re succeeding in making Portland America’s healthiest city or not. We’ll need to start right away.” The BTA is inviting members and supporters to get involved in the campaign and show Portland City Council how many Portlanders value the health, safety, and livability benefits that 25% of bicycling would bring to the community. Supporters are invited to testify, call or e-mail city hall, and take their picture with the Build It logo and post it on the campaign website http://www.portlandbikenetwork.org/. The Portland Bicycle Plan for 2030 is up for vote at the February 4th City Council meeting. According to the BTA, “It if adopted, funded and built, it will attract new riders, strengthen policies, build a denser bikeway network, increase bicycle parking, expand programs to support bicycling and increase funding for bicycle facilities. But it is just a document unless the Portland City Council approves the plan, funds the plan, and ultimately builds the Portland Bike Network.” Check out and add your support to the Build It Campaign at http://www.portlandbikenetwork.org. 2010-01-22T00:36:22+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marin_county_safe_routes_to_schools_launches_new_campaign/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marin_county_safe_routes_to_schools_launches_new_campaign/#When:18:13:20Z According to the Marin County Bicycle Coalition, “Marin County Safe Routes to Schools (SR2S) is pleased to announce its new Green Ways to School campaign to combat global warming, funded by a $175,000 grant from the Marin Community Foundation’s Climate Change Initiative. The Green Ways to School campaign will feature the new SchoolPool on-line trip sharing program, new contests, and cash incentives for the schools that show the greatest increase in green trips to school by walking, biking, carpooling or taking the bus. Building on the success of Marin’s nationally recognized SR2S program, the Green Ways campaign will employ a classroom competition within schools, and challenges between schools with cash awards. Parents will be able to use the on-line SchoolPool program to build a network of friends to share the journey to school modeled after employee ridesharing programs; SchoolPool will provide parents with match-lists of schoolmates who live along their route to school. They can then form a carpool, walk or bike together, or find bus buddies for their children. Walking or bicycling in groups provides safety in numbers and provides socializing time as well as exercise on the way to school, for both the children and the parents. The program will be unveiled on January 21, 2010 at 4 p.m. “ For more information visit www.marinbike.org Member News 2010-01-21T18:13:20+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/hoala_project_awakens_need_for_safe_routes_in_hawaii/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/hoala_project_awakens_need_for_safe_routes_in_hawaii/#When:02:46:27Z People’s Advocacy for Trails Hawaii (PATH) is launching an exciting initiative called HO’ALA - Hawaii’s Opportunity for Active Living Advancement. According to PATH, “Ho’ala means “to waken” and the powerful word has inspired an exciting school-community-government partnership focused on improving the health of our keiki and our communities.  The HO’ALA project aims to reduce childhood obesity by making it easy, fun and safe to get daily exercise by walking or bicycling to school.  The project will work with 12 schools across the island to help address their traffic safety issues and improve conditions for walking and bicycling to and from school. PATH is looking for schools to join the HOALA project. Schools must have at least 35% of students on free or reduced lunch. Schools will receive a comprehensive transportation evaluation, at no cost to the school. They will also be eligible for up to $1,000 in funding to complete their own Safe Routes to School plan with PATH’s support and guidance. For more information, or to apply, visit the HOALA page on the PATH Web site.” 2010-01-19T02:46:27+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/massbike_efforts_successfully_keep_sidewalks_and_bike_lanes/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/massbike_efforts_successfully_keep_sidewalks_and_bike_lanes/#When:01:22:42Z Livable Streets, MassBike, and other bicycling and walking advocates claimed a victory when the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) agreed to modify its plans to remove a portion of the bike lane on the Longfellow Bridge last week. Removal of the bike lane would have allowed for the installation of sidewalks where none currently exist. After much persistence from advocacy groups MassDOT chose to both build the sidewalks and keep the bike lane by implementing an alternative proposal submitted by MassBike, LivableStreets, WalkBoston, and the Institute for Human Centered Design. According to MassBike, “MassDOT also agreed to perform further analysis of the traffic patterns on the bridge in order to determine whether the lane configuration currently planned for the long-term reconstruction of the bridge is necessary, or if alternative proposals to provide even more space for bicycles and pedestrians are feasible. Finally, MassDOT agreed to continue the discussion with the advocates about the future configuration of the Longfellow Bridge. “ Livable Streets, MassBike, and their partners will remain active throughout the process continuing to promote biking and walking throughout the state.  For more information and to view the rehabilitation proposal visit www.massbike.org or www.livablestreets.info Member News 2010-01-14T01:22:42+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/tcat_releases_toronto_bike_summit_2009_summary_report_and_videos/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/tcat_releases_toronto_bike_summit_2009_summary_report_and_videos/#When:23:13:16Z According to the Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT), “In May 2009, TCAT organized its second Bike Summit, a one-day bicycle policy conference. This popular event sold out in advance despite a bigger venue than for Bike Summit 2008. One of the goals beyond the event itself was to share more widely the knowledge and lessons learned with bicycle advocates, professionals, and elected officials unable to join us in Toronto. To this end, we are pleased to release an easy-to-read and beautifully designed Summary Report of Bike Summit 2009. Thanks to Fred Sztabinski for putting the final touches on this report and getting it out the door. Printed copies are available for pick-up or mailing. If you’d like some copies to distribute, please email TCAT. An on-line PDF version of the report is also available to download here. We are also happy to announce that: all of the videos from the Bike Summit have been uploaded to TCAT’s website by TCAT volunteer extraordinaire Mateen Mahboubi, AND   TCAT Steering Committee member Dylan Passmore compiled highlights from the day into a 18-minute edited video also now available on our website. We hope you enjoy these new resources and find them useful.” Alliance staff note: TCAT has done an amazing job of compiling the results from their 2009 Bike Summit at these links. Their website now hosts videos of presentations at the Summit for those who couldn’t make it or would like a recap. The Summary Report is also a beautiful document that highlights the success that has come from their Bike Summit and summaries of the topics and presentations covered. We highly recommend you check it out! 2010-01-13T23:13:16+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/double_victories_for_lacbc/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/double_victories_for_lacbc/#When:19:16:12Z The Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC) is proud to announce that their involvement with the cities of Glendale and Burbank have led to momentous results in the two cities becoming bicycle friendly communities. According to LACBC, “Due to our participation in Glendale as part of the Safe and Healthy Streets PLACE Grant, Glendale has started to take visible steps in becoming more bike friendly.” The most recent advancement is the newly painted sharrows, or shared roadway markings on some of Burbank’s neighborhood streets. These ‘sharrows’ are a relatively new street marking for bicyclists whose main purpose is to guide cyclists to ride outside the car door zone, where they could potentially collide with a door opened by a motorist. In Burbank, LACBC welcomed the new Bicycle Master Plan that was adopted on December 15th, 2009. According to LACBC, “This plan offers visionary and creative options for the planning of bicycle infrastructure in Burbank and Los Angeles. LACBC was present at the adoption and brought up important points about how Burbank and Glendale could potentially work together to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes and good connectivity between the two cities.” For more information visit http://www.la-bike.org/ Member News 2010-01-08T19:16:12+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/more_san_francisco_sunday_streets_in_2010/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/more_san_francisco_sunday_streets_in_2010/#When:16:24:54Z According to the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, “We’re pleased that (Mayor) Gavin Newsom announced the 2010 Sunday Streets schedule—with even more routes, dates and neighborhoods than last year! More than 20,000 San Franciscans enjoyed car-free streets at each of last year’s Sunday Streets by participating in healthy activities ranging from bicycling to dancing, rollerskating to hula hooping. We expect even more people to enjoy the event this year, which will happen on nine Sundays starting in March and ending in October. Check out www.sundaystreetssf.com for the schedule and route details. The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition was proud to initiate the idea of Sunday Streets in 2008 and have it championed by a broad coalition including the Mayor’s Office, Shape Up SF Coalition, Livable City, Walk SF and many others. The Bicycle Coalition has worked for years with the Mayor, city leaders and community groups to create more car-free recreational spaces for healthy activities like biking. Car-free recreational areas open minds and show how streets can be used differently—come out and play!” Learn more at www.sundaystreetssf.com. 2010-01-05T16:24:54+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bikepgh_welcomes_hundreds_of_new_bike_racks/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bikepgh_welcomes_hundreds_of_new_bike_racks/#When:19:40:51Z After the city of Pittsburgh launched its new bike rack request program, BikePGH is welcoming hundreds of newly installed bike racks on Pittsburgh streets.  Upon announcing the program in October of 2009, Bike PGH secured funding for 100 racks, which were all donated to the city, and further matched with another 100 racks through the Mayor’s Taking Care of Business Districts program. With 200 racks available, the city has been taking online requests for the new racks’ designated locations throughout Pittsburgh. Most of the 200 racks are now populating the city’s streets, yet there are still many locations in need of bike parking facilities. The success of the online requests has been so overwhelming that BikePGH is actively looking at options to expand the program and continue their mission of making Pittsburgh a safer and more enjoyable place to live and ride. To find out more about the bike rack program visit http://www.bikepgh.org. Member News 2009-12-16T19:40:51+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/svbc_volunteers_park_7500_bikes_in_2009/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/svbc_volunteers_park_7500_bikes_in_2009/#When:16:25:56Z The 2009 Stanford football season kept Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) volunteers very busy. According to SVBC a season total of 7,500 bicycles were parked over the course of seven home games. “SVBC would like to thank Ellen Fletcher for once again leading this effort, unhindered by challenges like late games and last minute scheduling.” See the SVBC website for the game-by-game breakdown and a list of the season’s most dedicated volunteers. 2009-12-15T16:25:56+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/st._paul_crowdsources_campaign_for_keeping_sidewalks_shoveled/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/st._paul_crowdsources_campaign_for_keeping_sidewalks_shoveled/#When:22:57:37Z On December 9, St. Paul Smart Trips launched a campaign with the city of Saint Paul to educate renters and property owners about the rules for sidewalk snow removal. Timed with the first major snow storm in the Twin Cities, residents were encouraged to pick up informational door hangers at local distribution points and to leave them at problem properties in their neighborhoods. The campaign will run throughout the winter with the goal of ensuring safer and more accessible sidewalks for all users, with particular regard to transit-riders, those with disabilities and the elderly. The door hangers and more campaign details can be viewed at http://www.smart-trips.org/sidewalks. 2009-12-11T22:57:37+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/massbike_wins_bus_bike_racks/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/massbike_wins_bus_bike_racks/#When:17:39:52Z In March 2010, 29 new Pioneer Valley Transit Agency (PVTA) buses will be equipped with new bike racks because of MassBike’s continuing efforts. Through the organization’s hard work, PVTA buses in the Northern and Southern Tier will now have year round bicycle racks. MassBike and other advocates have been lobbying the Pioneer Valley Transit Agency for years through letters to key officials, comments on the Regional Transportation Plan, and other various advocacy efforts. With these new bike racks, Mass Bike hopes to continue their mission in promoting a bicycle-friendly environment and encouraging bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation. For more information visit www.massbike.org Member News 2009-12-09T17:39:52+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/lake_tahoe_bicycle_coalition_helps_save_maintenance_funds/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/lake_tahoe_bicycle_coalition_helps_save_maintenance_funds/#When:17:20:05Z With persistence and courage, the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition has secured funds for maintenance of its local bicycle paths.  A threatening Measure B attempted to amend funds allocated to bike path maintenance (Measure S), but instead was narrowly defeated on election day. Although the election has passed and the Coalition has claimed a victory, it is still taking precautionary steps and is actively gathering all Measure S documents in order to be better prepared for future initiatives and possible measures to protect bike path maintenance funds. As stated by the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition, they are hopeful that this event has awakened the bicycle community to the need to be organized, unified, and action-oriented. Special thanks were also extended to all voters and other organizations helping in the cause to retain the integrity of Measure S. To find out more about the election and the Coalition’s involvement, visit www.tahoebike.org Member News 2009-12-09T17:20:05+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_welcomes_first_bike_lane_in_3_years/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_welcomes_first_bike_lane_in_3_years/#When:17:32:19Z After the San Francisco Superior Court was exposed to a city report stating that bicycle ridership has increased 53% since 2006, the court ruled to partially lift the Bike Plan injunction set three years ago.  Since the ruling, the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (SFBC) has been working hard to make sure changes are happening and that the City is taking full advantage of the court’s partial lift. Just days following the lift, SFBC welcomed the City’s first bike lane in three years along with its first green-colored “Bike Box” (an advanced stop line that gives bicyclists priority waiting room in front of cars at stop lights). Various neighborhoods have also received additional improvements such as “sharrows” (shared lane arrows), new sidewalk bike racks, a temporary on-street bike parking corral as well as improved bicycle way-finding signage. These improvements are a step in the right direction but more than 35 bicycle related projects still remain on hold until the injunction is fully lifted. In the mean time, SVBC will continue their efforts and push for a full lift of the injunction with a hearing set for June 2010. To view current improvements, follow the injunction’s process, and more information on SFBC’s involvement, visit www.sfbike.org Member News 2009-12-07T17:32:19+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/milwaukee_buses_get_bike_racks/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/milwaukee_buses_get_bike_racks/#When:19:22:04Z The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin (BFW) celebrated a victory for cycling on November 19th, when the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors passed a measure to put bike racks on all Milwaukee buses. Milwaukee County will provide the local match for Milwaukee’s Bike Racks on Buses Program. The project will be in full swing this spring and completed by the fall of 2010. BFW has been working with the Milwaukee County Transit System for nearly five years on various measures. The campaign for bike racks on buses has been running for two and a half years. According to Shea Schachameyer of BFW, “I view the campaign’s success as yet another example of the power of grassroots organizing; it was because of the broad base of support which the campaign attracted and the BFW’s ability to mobilize those supporters on a dime’s notice which has led the program to be implemented this spring.” Read more on this victory from Shea here (http://www.bfw.org/advocacy/index.php?category_id=4027). To read more about the bike racks on buses program click here (http://www.bfw.org/advocacy/index.php?category_id=4170). 2009-12-01T19:22:04+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/denver_city_council_unanimously_approves_new_bike_ordinances/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/denver_city_council_unanimously_approves_new_bike_ordinances/#When:18:55:40Z BikeDenver recently announced that on November 23rd Denver’s City Council approved a bill to amend many sections of the Revised Municipal Code related to bicycling. The new ordinances took effect on Friday, November 27th and amend City traffic laws related to bicycles to partially conform with a new Colorado state law. The new law allows speed-restricted riding on sidewalks for the limited purpose of parking and eliminates obsolete language associated with licensing.  Councilwoman Carla Madison (pictured right) who championed the effort within the council says: “It’s good policy to have state and city law aligned, and it’ll be nice to see people be able to legally ride to park their bike.”  BikeDenver Executive Director Piep van Heuven said: “It’s very important that Denver’s laws mirror those recently adopted on the State level that ensure key protections for bicyclists like 3-Feet to Pass.  Synchronizing City code with Colorado’s Bicycle Safety Law will make riding a bike in Denver and operating motor vehicles around bikes in Denver safer for all of us.  We’re also pleased to see City Council so actively involved in the effort to make Denver a safe, convenient and fun place to ride a bike.” BikeDenver worked for months with stakeholders and councilmembers including to suggest ordinance revisions that would bring Denver in line with State and National standards.  BikeDenver’s van Heuven said: “It was great to see so many interested parties at the table and on the same page.”  Groups and offices involved in the effort included representatives from the Downtown Denver Partnership, the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Committee, Denver City Attorney’s Office, Denver Bike Sharing, Greenprint Denver, Denver Police Department, and the Department of Public Works. For more of the story, including the specific key changes to Denver’s Bike Ordinances, visit http://www.bikedenver.org/news/denverbikeordinances/. 2009-12-01T18:55:40+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/introducing_the_biketexas_parentsplus_program/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/introducing_the_biketexas_parentsplus_program/#When:22:33:07Z BikeTexas recently announced that on October 1, 2009 they began development of the new BikeTexas ParentsPlus Program. Accoring to BikeTexas, “The program is funded through a Texas Department of Transportation grant, and will provide parents, plus other adults concerned with bicycle and pedestrian safety, the certification training and resources necessary to develop neighborhood bicycling and walking events. These events will incorporate safety messages in a fun and healthy venue and will bring the safety lessons to the larger community, thus amplifying their effect. The BikeTexas ParentsPlus Program includes: (1) training parents, plus other adults concerned with bicycling and walking safety, using the developed ParentsPlus training materials; (2) developing some of the safety materials in both English and Spanish; (3) continually revising and distributing the training materials; and (4) publishing print and web-based resource materials to reach a broader audience. These activities will increase public information and education efforts on the rules of the road, use of safety equipment, and motorist awareness for sharing the road. They will also improve public education and information on safe walking and safe bicycling practices.” Read more from BikeTexas here. 2009-11-30T22:33:07+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/vbf_scores_major_win_for_new_bike_and_ped._projects/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/vbf_scores_major_win_for_new_bike_and_ped._projects/#When:18:43:53Z On November 19th, the Virginia Bicycling Federation (VBF) claimed a well deserved victory for the future of the state’s active transportation network. Major funding was unanimously approved by Virginia’s Commonwealth Transportation Board where bike and pedestrian projects will be a priority. According to VBF, funding will be focused on the following categories: • Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities • Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety and Education • Landscaping and Scenic Beautification along Corridors • Preservation of Abandoned Railway Corridors for Conversion to Trails (rails to trails and rails-with-trails) • Rehabilitation of historic transportation buildings, structures and facilities • Acquisition of scenic or historic easements and sites, including historic battlefields Bike advocates and VBF addressed the Board in support of these changes and will continue to be active in ensuring the implementation of these core transportation projects. To learn more about VBF and upcoming projects visit www.vabike.org Member News 2009-11-19T18:43:53+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/voice_of_svbc_heard_san_jose_adopts_bike_plan/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/voice_of_svbc_heard_san_jose_adopts_bike_plan/#When:17:34:11Z On Tuesday November 17th, the City of San Jose adopted its first comprehensive bike plan with the Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) playing a strong role in its release. SVBC, the Department of Transportation, various community organizations, and the general public have long been anticipating the plan which includes a Cal Train bike share program, a cycle track, a doubling of existing bike lanes, new safety signals, bike lockers, and an overall increase in bicycle ridership and safety. The City ultimately hopes to achieve a five percent increase in cycling and a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly ranking from the League of American Bicyclists by 2020. Corinne Winter, executive director of SVBC said, “We need to ensure that hard commitments and funding streams follow. To turn this plan into a reality, the City will have to put dollars behind developing these bike facilities.”  SVBC has been an active voice in the planning process and continues to strongly support the plan. They will continue to be persistent in urging financing as well as the implementation of any experimental suggestions in order to expedite the plan in an efficient manner.  To find out more about SVBC’s involvement and track the plan’s progress, visit bikesiliconvalley.org and/or sanjoseca.gov Member News 2009-11-17T17:34:11+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mcbc_gets_recognized_for_its_economic_impact/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mcbc_gets_recognized_for_its_economic_impact/#When:20:07:45Z On November 13th, the Marin County Bicycle Coalition(MCBC) will be honored for its years of improving biking and walking infrastructure with the Marin Economic Commission award. MCBC has been fighting to ensure that bicycling be recognized as a legitimate form of transportation and over the past eleven years has shown incredible leadership and service, as well as raised over $183 billion for their cause. The funds have, and will continue, to go directly to local City and County projects as well as supporting various agency staff, contractors, and other important players in the design and implementation of biking and walking facilities. MCBC’s incredible feat has been acknowledged by the Marin Economic Commission leading to its recognition and well deserved award. To find out more about MCBC and how bicycling can be “environmentally, fiscally and physically responsible-while being fun” visit http://www.marinbike.org/Index.shtml 2009-11-12T20:07:45+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/getdowntown_helps_cyclists_brave_the_winter_commute/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/getdowntown_helps_cyclists_brave_the_winter_commute/#When:19:12:13Z GetDowntown is helping cyclists keep their commute up in the chilly winter months. The Ann Arbor-based organization has put together a handy Guide to Winter Commuting In Ann Arbor. A few tid-bits: Windproof gear: Keeps you a lot warmer than just fleece Tires with spikes in them. Give yourself more time. When it gets really cold/snowy, it can slow you down. Many more tips for cycling in winter months await! Check out the guide for more info on basic gear and practical hints and tips for winter commuting. 2009-11-12T19:12:13+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bta_survey_reveals_trends_and_perceptions_of_bicycling_in_oregon/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bta_survey_reveals_trends_and_perceptions_of_bicycling_in_oregon/#When:22:29:35Z In August of this year Portland, Oregon’s Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA) asked its members and the public for feedback to help them plan for bike advocacy and organizational growth in the future. Over 2,000 people responded to the survey providing the BTA with data on a wide range of advocacy and education topics, bicyclists’ perceptions, and organizational direction. According to the BTA, some of the findings include: “As cycling experience levels increase, so do the number and percentage of trips that occur by bicycle. Those extra bike trips are mostly replacing car trips: automobile usage decreases significantly as bicycling experience increases, but public transit and walking trips remain relatively consistent. People who rate themselves “intermediate” or “advanced” cyclists are more likely to ride for commute purposes than beginner cyclists. Conversely, beginners report a higher ratio of recreational and utilitarian trips. Virtually everyone responded “bicycling in my community is safer for me personally than for my family.” Advocacy work at the local, regional and state levels is more important than national advocacy.” The BTA survey was developed and analyzed with support from Inavero Institute for Service Research in Portland. For more information and to download the pdf with complete survey results, visit http://www.bta4bikes.org/btablog/2009/11/11/bta-survey-reveals-trends-perceptions-of-bicycling-around-oregon/. 2009-11-11T22:29:35+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_pittsburgh_releases_bike_commuting_101_guide/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_pittsburgh_releases_bike_commuting_101_guide/#When:18:51:56Z PITTSBURGH – The bike advocacy group BikePGH just released Bike Commuting 101 to share with commuters the basics of bike commuting. The booklet explores topics like choosing a bike, how it should fit, riding safe, useful accessories, and general information that enhances the bike commuting experience. Culling the combined input of BikePGH’s staff and long time members the guide focuses on the essential elements of bike commuting using the themes of convenience, comfort and safety. Illustrated by local artist Glen Johnson the guide not only provides practical advice, but it also presents the city in a fun graphic style. “Bike commuting is not and all-or-nothing choice” says Program Manager Louis Fineberg. “You can ease into it. Try it once a month, maybe eventually once a week. More than likely once you start you’ll realize the benefits immediately and you’ll want to bike to work regularly.” Since it’s start in 2003 BikePGH has hosted bike commuting workshops.  The guide compliments the workshop or stands on its own as an informative reference for all levels of riders. Bike Commuting 101, Car Free Fridays, and similar initiatives are part of BikePGH’s efforts to engage local employers in supporting workers who want to bike to their jobs. “A work environment that welcomes bike commuters sends a strong message about the values of your workplace and reinforces the idea that Pittsburgh is a city that provides a high quality of life”, adds Fineberg. “Biking to work is different than driving and it requires some planning.” BikePGH is developing a Bike Friendly Employer program to assist employers in meeting this growing need. This first edition of the guide is free and available through BikePGH, the city’s Bike/Ped Coordinator, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, the Sprout Fund, and bike shops throughout Pittsburgh. Download or view the guide at http://www.bike-pgh.org/101. The guide’s official release will be during BikePGH’s annual member meeting on November 10th at the Union Project. 2009-11-06T18:51:56+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/eugene_receives_gold/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/eugene_receives_gold/#When:19:17:28Z The Greater Eugene Area Riders (GEARS) is celebrating the announcement by the League of American Bicyclists that Eugene, Oregon has become one of only 10 cities in the nation to be designated a Gold level bicycle friendly community. After being designated at the Silver level in 2004, Eugene’s continuous commitment to bicycling has been reinforced with the award in October of 2009. According to GEARS, “We have seen some great changes in the past few years at both the city and community level to earn this award. Here are a few of the projects GEARs has been active in coordinating, participating in, or is simply excited about:   * Implementation of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Strategic Plan   * Formation, meetings, & events of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC)   * Growth in special events including a larger Bike Day celebration, the Spring Roll Ride, and Breakfast at the Bridges events   * Completion of three successful Walk and Bike Summits   * Growth in the Safe Routes to School program including several active SRTS schools, a growth from 8 participating schools for Walk + Bike to School Day to 29, the formation of the SRTS Team, and the start of Kidical Mass!   * Hosting of several Webinars by the City of Eugene for the community and the BPAC   * Opening of a new multi-use bridge over I-5 and work on one over Delta Hwy.   * Creation of a new and updated bicycle/pedestrian map.   * Work with the City to improve the “leaf collection program” to increase safety for cyclists.   * Starting the Eye-to-Eye campaign; a share-the-road education program.   *Growth of the Business Commute Challenge for National Bike to Work Month in May. To celebrate these and other GEAR achievements, GEAR joined the City of Eugene City of Eugene and Mayor Kitty Piercy on Octover 22nd for a happy hour celebration entitled “Eugene Goes Gold!.” For more information, visit http://www.eugenegears.org/archives/1109. 2009-11-05T19:17:28+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/got_lights_waba_does/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/got_lights_waba_does/#When:16:26:37Z (Washington, DC) Just in time with daylight savings, the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) has launched its Got Lights? program in partnership with the District Department of Transportation, the City of Alexandria, and Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling. The Got Lights campaign is a joint safety and educational campaign aiming to raise awareness of the importance of cyclists being seen at dusk, dawn, and night. In an effort to ensure bicyclists are seen, WABA is handing out 800 free bike lights to bicyclists, as well as other bicycle safety literature, in three different DC locations. The campaign will extend only until November 8th, but the message of “Be safe and be seen” will continue to linger in WABA’s ongoing efforts and events.  To get your free lights and to find out more about the “Got Lights?” campaign, visit WABA’s website at http://www.waba.org/events/gotlights.php.  2009-11-05T16:26:37+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/fabb_host_a_workshop_for_a_bicycling_advocates_phase_design/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/fabb_host_a_workshop_for_a_bicycling_advocates_phase_design/#When:16:23:14Z On November 5, the Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling (FABB) (Fairfax County, VA) held a workshop in Sterling, VA to test materials they developed for a new engineering for advocates handbook.  According to FABB, “A small but interested audience showed up to learn how they could better comment to public officials on the design of bicycling facilities during the engineering process.  One of the things that we found was that there seemed to be demand from new advocates to learn about the very basic steps in accessing the process so we have gone back to add additional diagrams and explanations to the handbook to better address this need.” The engineering for advocates handbook is a project funded by an Alliance for Biking & Walking Advocacy Advance Grant. For more information about this project, please visit http://www.fabb-bikes.org/index.html http://www.fabb-bikes.org/resources.html 2009-11-05T16:23:14+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/calgary_tour_de_nuit_society_receives_eco_intern_funding/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/calgary_tour_de_nuit_society_receives_eco_intern_funding/#When:15:20:08Z The Calgary tour de nuit Society, Canada’s fastest growing active and sustainable transportation organization, has received stimulus funding from the Environmental Intern program being administered by the YM/YWCA. The grant has a value in excess of $20,000 and represents an increase in the operating budget of 66% over the current fiscal year. The intern position is for nine months and will hopefully allow the Society to hire a mature individual who can help mentor and guide a team of summer students in the 2010 commuter cycling season. “We now have the ability to open project files prior to the hiring summer students and ensure that their impact and productivity will be maximized,” stated President Gary Beaton. Calgary is the worst major city in Canada for cycling and in North America is tied with Detroit. The new hire will join one of North America’s most innovative cycling organizations, incorporated in January, as it prepares for its first membership drive. Following an action-packed summer schedule that saw CtdnS launch Calgary’s first bike festival and first on-street, closed-road commuter bike tour, CtdnS established itself as a credible voice for active transportation. Its program sparked a host of copycat events, some in direct competition, and even the formation of a geriatric advocacy group of old-timers. 2009-11-05T15:20:08+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/pittsburgh_launches_bike_rack_program/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/pittsburgh_launches_bike_rack_program/#When:18:39:02Z The City of Pittsburgh installed the first of 200 new bike racks in front of Enrico’s Biscotti Co in the Strip District this morning.  The racks, in the iconic Three Rivers Bike rack design, are to go to business districts and small businesses as part of the Mayor’s Taking Care of Business Districts program.  BikePGH donated one hundred of the racks to the city (for small businesses, made possible through the Richard King Mellon Foundation and William Benter Foundation), while the City matched them with another 100 that will go into business districts. The event drew an impressive crowd of cyclists, media and movers and shakers who were greeted with delicious baked goods from Enrico’s.  Mayor Luke Ravenstahl introduced the program, followed by speeches from BikePGH’s Scott Bricker, State Senator Jim Ferlo, State Senator Wayne Fontana, and Councilman Patrick Dowd. The next step is placing the racks around town.  Many businesses throughout the city have already requested racks, and will get first dibs.  The rest of the racks will be distributed using a new online request form.  Once a business requests a rack, the location will be assessed to make sure it complies with ADA and other right-of-way standards.  If the site is in compliance, public works will then install a rack.  As they are in the public right-of-way, the City assumes liability on the racks thereafter. For more information, visit http://bike-pgh.org/2009/10/city-launches-bike-rack-program-rack-request-form-now-live/ 2009-10-30T18:39:02+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_license_plate_for_bikes_in_tx/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_license_plate_for_bikes_in_tx/#When:16:34:24Z According to BikeTexas, the new Texas Trails Specialty License Plate will benefit biking in Texas. “Once they are made available to the public for use on cars, motorcycles, trucks and trailers, the proceeds ($22 of the $30 annual fee) will benefit the BikeTexas Education Fund (501c3) Community Trails* programs. The organization is now seeking help to choose the final design for the plate and help raise the fee required by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to begin production. BikeTexas must choose and submit the final design to TxDOT before Thanksgiving and must raise the $8,000 necessary to offset the fee. You can cast your vote (as many votes as you wish) on which design you like best and your $2 per vote, tax-deductible donation will help BikeTexas pay the required fees. Plus, your vote(s) will count towards which plate is chosen to represent Texas’ Trails! Click here to vote! For more information on the new license plates, visit BikeTexas. 2009-10-30T16:34:24+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/colorado_bicycle_policy_passes/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/colorado_bicycle_policy_passes/#When:16:27:22Z “After more than two years of meetings and drafting language, Bicycle Colorado announced that the Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Transportation Commission has adopted a, “groundbreaking statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Policy. According to Bicycle Colorado, “The new policy directs that, ‘...the needs of bicyclists and pedestrians shall be included in the planning, design, and operation of transportation facilities, as a matter of routine…’ Division of Transportation Development Director Jennifer Finch stated, ‘This is a change in philosophy for the Department [of Transportation].’ Bicycle Colorado’s Executive Director Dan Grunig said, ‘We have passed positive bicycle legislation and overturned bike bans, but passing this policy may be the biggest step we’ve taken towards bicyclists being treated as legitimate road users.’ Adoption of this policy is a big step, but implementation is the key to the policy’s success. Read more about next steps for this policy online. 2009-10-30T16:27:22+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/northeast_arkansas_bicycle_coalition/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/northeast_arkansas_bicycle_coalition/#When:18:47:22Z The Northeast Arkansas Bicycle Coalition is partnering with high school students from the NEA Career and Technical Center to provide bicycle parking for historic, downtown Jonesboro.  The students are building 20 bike racks as part of their community service project and will be submitting their work as part of a state-wide welding/engineering competition. A neighboring city and county have adopted local bike routes into their master street plans.  According to the Arkansas State Highway Dept., accommodation of bicycles will be given due consideration when improvements or projects are planned for the state roadways that are designated as bike routes.  The city and county have also agreed to install Share the Road signs along these routes.  The signs are all provided by local donors, and since July of this year 75 signs have been purchased. For more information, visit: http://neabicyclecoalition.org 2009-10-28T18:47:22+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/100000_raised_at_gala_for_wisconsin_bike_fed/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/100000_raised_at_gala_for_wisconsin_bike_fed/#When:04:59:45Z The sixth annual Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin fundraising gala raised $100,000 despite the challenging economy.  The October 9th event included 400 guests whose generous support will fund a variety of Bike Fed programs across the state. “Our supporters came out and proved their confidence in us through an evening of tremendous giving,” says Kevin Hardman, Executive Director of the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin. Gayle Stallings, the professional auctioneer of FUNauctions (and an Alliance leader) led the bidding to frenzy. The crowd was also joined by several celebrities including Taylor Phinney, Axel Merckx, Gary Fisher, and local political leaders. For more information visit: http://www.bfw.org/events/index.php?category_id=3896 2009-10-28T04:59:45+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bicycle_coalition_of_maine_receives_award_from_maine_public_relations_counc/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bicycle_coalition_of_maine_receives_award_from_maine_public_relations_counc/#When:20:35:08Z Augusta – Shoshana Hoose, communications coordinator for the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, received a Golden Arrow award from the Maine Public Relations Council for publicity for the coalition’s 2009 Great Maine Bike Swap.  The award was presented at the council’s recent annual conference in South Portland. The swap, held each spring in Portland and Orono, provides an opportunity for the public to buy and/or sell used bicycles in good, working condition. Hoose created public service announcements, a Youtube video and a variety of written and Web-based materials to publicize the swap. The Orono and Portland events both broke attendance records, with 55 percent more bikes sold than the previous year. To find out more about the Great Maine Bike Swap and dates of the 2010 events, please visit http://www.BikeMaine.org. The Bicycle Coalition of Maine has been working since 1992 to make Maine a better place to bicycle.  The coalition advocates for Maine cyclists at the Legislature and in Washington, D.C., teaches bicycle safety to thousands of Maine schoolchildren each year, partners with state agencies on a Share the Road media campaign and serves as a resource on local bicycling issues. 2009-10-19T20:35:08+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/walk_to_school_day_kicks_off_citywide_safe_routes_to_school_program_in_san_/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/walk_to_school_day_kicks_off_citywide_safe_routes_to_school_program_in_san_/#When:15:15:41Z (SAN FRANCISCO, CA) — According to a press release issued today by the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, “Parents and students will be taking to the sidewalks and forming ‘walking school buses’ all across the city when SF schools celebrate Walk to School Day, Oct. 7th. Walk to School Day is also the kick off for a new program that will help raise a new generation of walkers and bikers. The new two-year Safe Routes to Schools program, funded by a $500,000 grant from the federal government, aims to make biking and walking to school easier for parents and kids through education, safer streets and incentives. The Safe Routes to School Program is led by the SF Department of Public Health and supported by the SF Bicycle Coalition, SF Unified School District, SF Police Department, and the SF Municipal Transportation Agency. It will be launched at five elementary schools this school year including: Bryant (Mission District), George Washington Carver (Bayview), Longfellow (Excelsior), Sunnyside (Sunnyside), Sunset (Outer Sunset). 68% of the students at these schools live within one mile of their school, so there’s an amazing opportunity to increase the number of kids who get to school by bike and foot. Next year 10 additional schools will be added to the program for a total of 15 schools. “The Safe Routes to Schools program teaches students and parents about how easy it can be to save our earth by reducing pollution,” says Phyllis Matsuno, Principal of Longfellow Elementary School (SFUSD) Principal Phyllis. “We’re thrilled that Longfellow was selected to participate in this program, it’ll help us promote healthy, active and attentive students.” Getting more children to walk and bicycle to school is a much-needed solution. In San Francisco, one quarter of children are overweight and studies show that 75% of these overweight children will become overweight as adults, translating into more cases of diabetes, asthma and other chronic diseases. During the past four decades the obesity rate for children ages 6 to 11 has more than quadrupled (from 4.2 to 17 percent), and the obesity rate for adolescents ages 12 to 19 has more than tripled (from 4.6 to 17.6 percent). In addition, communities throughout the U.S. report that as much as 21 percent of morning traffic can be parents driving their children to schools. The Safe Routes to School is a popular nationwide program that has a proven track record at over 5,440 schools for helping more children and communities become healthy, safe, and green. Schools in Oakland, California reported an amazing 10% increase in students walking and biking to school after just one year of launching their Safe Routes to School. “Safe Routes to Schools is one of the best ways to improve conditions for walking and biking,” says Leah Shahum, Executive Director of the 10,000-member SF Bicycle Coalition, which promotes bicycling for everyday transportation. “We know that fewer and fewer kids are walking and biking to school today and that this is having a direct, negative effect on kids’ long-term health and habits. Fortunately, we know we can turn this alarming trend around.” Studies show that 78% of school age children are not getting enough exercise and that this generation will likely be the first to have a lowered life expectancy than their parents. “Bicycling and walking are wise public health investments because they encourage active lifestyles that will help prevent disease,” says Mitch Katz, MD, Director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH). “Walking is an important part of our day and a great time for us to talk about what she did at school, go over her spelling words and take in the view from the top of Morse and Allyson streets,” says Jacquie Chavez, ‘Walk to Win Wednesday’ co-founder and mother of a first grader at Longfellow Elementary. “My daughter is learning to be safe, smart and independent and we are making the streets safer by not adding another car to the road.” For more on International Walk to School Day in San Francisco, see: http://www.sfwalktoschool.com. For more information on the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and the SF Safe Routes to Schools Program see http://www.sfbike.org.” 2009-10-06T15:15:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/chittenden_county_schools_to_celebrate_international_walk_to_school_day/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/chittenden_county_schools_to_celebrate_international_walk_to_school_day/#When:15:12:41Z (Chittenden County, VT) - According to a press release issued by Local Motion, “At least 20 schools in Chittenden County will be joining schools from around the world to celebrate International Walk to School Day on October 7, 2009.  Several thousand students from area schools will be walking to school during the week of October 5 to 9 along with parents, teachers and community leaders.x The main event takes place Wednesday, October 7th. Events will begin at approximately 7:30 am with kids, parents and community leaders walking to school from various locations.  Other special activities associated with the walk include healthy snack giveaways, FedEx/Safe Kids grant giveaways at Champlain Elementary, reflective zipper pull giveaways at most schools, fall “Walking Wednesday” kick-off events, and “Walking School Bus” all-week extension of “Walking Wednesdays.”   The events are being organized by individual schools with support from Local Motion, with funding from VTRANS and the CCMPO.  Local Motion is a not-for-profit bike and pedestrian advocacy organization located in Burlington.  Local Motion currently coordinates Safe Routes to School programs at 21 schools in Chittenden County.   Local Motion will be collecting digital photos of each October 8th event.  A complete set of photos will be available by 4pm Wednesday, October 8.  Please contact Jason Van Driesche at 735-7271 or at jason@localmotion.org for photos.”   For more information about Local Motion’s Safe Routes to School program, please visit: http://www.localmotion.org/programs/safe-routes-to-school 2009-10-06T15:12:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/hildren_across_maine_walk_and_bike_to_school_on_october_7/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/hildren_across_maine_walk_and_bike_to_school_on_october_7/#When:18:11:41Z According to the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, students in at least 27 Maine schools, from Aroostook to York counties, will commute by foot or bicycle this week.  While most schools have activities planned for October 7 (International Walk & Bike to School Day), some have organized walking and/or bicycling events on other days. Parents, teachers and volunteers at each school have organized the events, including “walking school buses” (children walking under adult supervision) and “bike trains” (groups bicycling under adult supervision). Maine’s Safe Routes to School program, managed by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine under contract to MaineDOT, provides support and encourages more schools to participate. “The Safe Routes to School program seeks to change the habits of a generation,” said Allison Vogt, the coalition’s executive director. “The events taking place this week will help make that happen by showing students, parents and teachers the value of commuting by bicycle and by foot.” Since the Maine Safe Routes to School program began in 2001, more than 150 schools have become involved.  The program has provided funding to more than 30 communities for infrastructure improvements to make walking and biking safer. The program has two regional coordinators: Sarah Cushman (sarah@sarahcushman.com ) in southern Maine and Darcy Whittemore (saferoutes@BikeMaine.org ) in the central part of the state. For more information or details about the October 7 events, please e-mail them or call 207-623-4511. 2009-10-05T18:11:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_bike_station_opens_at_union_station_dc/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_bike_station_opens_at_union_station_dc/#When:15:23:01Z On October 2, 2009, the Washington Area Bicyclist Association and many other bike enthusiasts shared in the ribbon cutting celebration of the new state-of-the art BikeStation® D.C. Opening the ceremony to a shoulder to shoulder audience, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty stated, “This is not a crowd but a response to a growing national trend.” The D.C. bike station was built in concert with Mobis Transportation/Bikestation and funded by the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Federal Highway Administration. DDOT Director Kelin said, “This new architecturally striking facility serves as a symbol that bicycling is a legitimate form of transportation.” The architect designed the station to reflect the image of a bike helmet and also embody sustainability. The new bike station’s glass enclosure minimizes power usage and recycles rainwater for use in irrigating surrounding plants. BikeStation® D.C. will house approximately 133 secure bicycle parking spaces, and provide changing rooms and lockers. In addition, the BikeStation® D.C. will be staffed daily (Weekdays 7am-7pm, Weekends 9am-5pm) by Bike and Roll Washington D.C., offering bicycle repair, retail sales, and bike rental.  Individuals can purchase a membership for 24/7 access to the station. For more information about BikeStation® D.C visit http://www.bikestation.com/washingtondc/index.asp. 2009-10-02T15:23:01+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bikewise_tracking_bicycle_data_for_success/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bikewise_tracking_bicycle_data_for_success/#When:18:47:41Z On 2009 Bike to Work Day, Cascade Bicycle Club introduced bikewise, a place to learn about and report bike crashes, hazards, and thefts. “By sharing our experiences with each other, and with researchers and relevant agencies, we aim to make biking safer and more fun.” They have already gathered reports from over twenty-five states and eight countries. Visit http://www.bikewise.org to ad your reports, or check out http://www.cascade.org for more information. Member News 2009-09-30T18:47:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/colorados_new_3-2-1_courtesy_code/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/colorados_new_3-2-1_courtesy_code/#When:18:39:41Z Bicycle Colorado is introducing a new education campaign for safer roads - the 3-2-1 Courtesy Code. “By following these simple guidelines, members of the bicycling community seek to create goodwill and positive sharing of the road with motorists. Safety is the ultimate goal. Also, by collecting signature pledges on the banner, we are building broad support for positive behaviors on public roads.” Click to find out more… Member News 2009-09-30T18:39:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/slocbc_bike_valet_hits_15000_bikes_parked/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/slocbc_bike_valet_hits_15000_bikes_parked/#When:18:17:41Z The San Luis Obispo County Bicycle Coalition (SLOCBC) is celebrating a milestone of 15,000 bicycle parked with their Bike Valet Program. According to SLOCBC, “he Bike Valet is a volunteer run bike parking service aimed at making it easier for people to pedal to community events. The Valet works just like a coat check.  Upon arrival at the valet, each rider is given a claim check tag matching the number allocated to their bike.  Their bike is carefully parked in the secure lot for the duration of the event.  When they wish to retrieve their bike they simply hand our volunteers their claim check tag and the bike is returned with ease.” SLOCBC is celebrating their landmark achievement with smiles, excitement, and a free raffle this Thursday at Farmer’s Market Bike Valet. For a chance to win a Mobile Solar Charger for cells/pods/whatever else, Rickshaw Bag Works ‘Zero’ Messenger Bag, & Gift Certs to Local Businesses, SLOCBC is giving one free ticket to those who ride their bike, two free tickets to SLOCBC members, and five tickets to people who join as new members. For more information on SLOCBC’s Bike Valet Program visit http://slobikelane.org/cm/programs/BikeValet/Home.html. 2009-09-30T18:17:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/introducing_the_newest_bike_lanes_and_sharrows_in_pittsburgh/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/introducing_the_newest_bike_lanes_and_sharrows_in_pittsburgh/#When:19:57:41Z According to Bike Pittsburgh, “An important piece of a clearly marked city-wide bicycle network, that BikePGH is actively advocating for, was marked late last week.  This was a remarkable feat considering it was installed on the first day of the G-20 Summit.  Forbes Avenue, one of the major roads in the City, received bicycle-friendly treatments from Margaret Morrison (just east of CMU) to Murdoch, with the plan to continue the markings to the new soon-to-be bike lanes through Frick Park and on up to S. Braddock Ave.  The 2.3 mile stretch, when complete, will be a combination of bike lanes (whenever the street is wide enough) and shared lane markings, or “sharrows,” when the road narrows, or is a steep downhill. Forbes Ave, itself a popular cycling route, also connects to some existing bike lanes, adding an integral “backbone” to the network.  The Forbes markings will connect to the recently striped bike lanes on Beacon and Wightman, as well as the popular Schenley Drive and the age old Beechwood Blvd Bike lanes.” For more of the story visit http://bike-pgh.org/2009/09/new-bike-lanes-and-sharrows-on-forbes-ave-in-squirrel-hill/ 2009-09-29T19:57:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/san_francisco_launches_better_market_streets_project/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/san_francisco_launches_better_market_streets_project/#When:00:56:41Z Starting on September 29, San Francisco drivers will start seeing changes in traffic flow on Market Street downtown. Working in coordination with the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, Mayor Gavin Newsom announced the commencement of the Better Market Street Project, a package of several pedestrian and public transit improvements. According to Mayor Newsom’s press release, “private motorists traveling eastbound on Market Street will be encouraged to turn right on 10th Street before being diverted south at 8th Street… Public transit, bicycle, emergency vehicles and delivery vehicles will continue to fully access Market Street.” Over the course of the next year, many more innovative traffic diversion efforts will be created. These will include open-air concerts, numerous public art displays, and miniplazas featuring outdoor seating. Because the Better Market Street Project is trial-based, these new features will be refined as needed. This effort is just one outcome of SFBC’s Great Streets Project, a campaign to return San Francisco streets to their rightful place as the center of civic life. According to Kit Hodge, Director the Great Streets Project, “The Better Market Street Project will be a great civic experiment drawing on the wisdom of everyone who uses the street, or would like to. We look forward to learning what works from the trials, and building on success.” As part of their efforts, the City will use new media technologies like Twitter, 311, email, and Facebook for public feedback, which will prove essential in determining the project’s future. Carolyn Diamond, Executive Director of the Market Street Association, explains that Market Street “deserves to be a grand boulevard.” 2009-09-29T00:56:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_report_sets_benchmarks_for_bicycling_in_virginia/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_report_sets_benchmarks_for_bicycling_in_virginia/#When:16:49:41Z BikeWalk Virginia, in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Health, Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), just released the first-ever comprehensive report of bicycling and pedestrian planning, resources, accommodations, and safety in the state of Virginia. The report was funded by a DMV safety grant. BikeWalk Virginia surveyed 39 cities, 95 counties, and 157 incorporated towns in Virginia.  They developed a new measure, the Virginia Active Transportation Index (VATI), to provide a “comprehensive picture of biking and walking resources in each locality.” Each locality was scored (from 0 to a perfect score of 11) on the index based on the number of resources they reported including: comprehensive transportation plan, bicycle plan, pedestrian plan, greenway plan, bicycle advisory committee, pedestrian advisory committee, greenway advisory committee, law requiring persons 14 and under to wear a helmet, paved bike trails, and striped bike lanes. Findings also include identification of localities that reported receiving an Enhancement Grant from the Virginia Department of Transportation. According to BikeWalk Virginia, ” The report established a valid benchmark against which progress in expanding resources can be measured.” The organization plans to conduct continuing surveys and update the report every two years.For more info and to read the report visit http://www.bikewalkvirginia.org/advocacy.asp. Media, Member News 2009-09-10T16:49:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/portland_unveils_its_first_cycle_track/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/portland_unveils_its_first_cycle_track/#When:00:38:41Z Portland‘s Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA) is celebrating the unveiling of the city’s first cycle track on August 31st. The new cycle track runs on Broadway, from southwest Clay to southwest Jackson, and separates cyclists from parked cars by a 3-foot striped buffer zone. This seven-block section has always had heavy bike traffic and few right turns for cars, which makes it the perfect location to test this innovative concept. In addition to the bicycle-friendly lanes, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has painted green markings throughout the track to facilitate left-hand turns for bikers. Known as “Copenhagen lefts,” they are the first of their kind being used in North America. The BTA helped in getting this project started by creating the proposal and presenting it to the city staff. This cycle track is the latest development in an extremely successful summer for Portland after finishing three Sunday Parkways, a new uphill bike lane on North Mississippi, and buffered bike lanes on several main streets. The PBOT believes that this track will prove safer and more comfortable for bikers and drivers alike. They plan for similar projects throughout Portland in the future. For more information, go to http://bikeportland.org/2009/08/31/first-look-at-portlands-inaugural-cycle-track/ 2009-09-01T00:38:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/advocacy_advance_grant_recipients_update_transportation_alternatives1/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/advocacy_advance_grant_recipients_update_transportation_alternatives1/#When:15:15:41Z Transportation Alternatives (T.A.)has published two extensive reports on traffic safety and enforcement, quantitatively tallying the level of lawless driving and documenting the failure to create deterrence from dangerous driving on New York City streets.  Executive Order:  A Mayoral Strategy for Traffic Safety examines the broken system of enforcement of traffic crimes, describing the deadly consequences of dangerous driving, the lack of moving violation enforcement, and the loopholes in traffic crime prosecution. Using sampling data and yearly totals of NYPD summonsing activity, Executive Order presents staggering statistics that reveal how often dangerous drivers evade enforcement and delay justice.  The report was released to wide acclaim, with coverage by every major New York City news organization and both Mayor Bloomberg and Police Commissioner Ray Kelly commenting on its findings.  A follow-up study, From Chaos to Compliance:  How the NYPD Can Grasp New York City’s Traffic Safety Problem develops the methodology for measuring the state of New York streets, and employs these techniques to prove the pervasiveness of traffic law violations.  T.A. has also launched an advocacy campaign, based on the comprehensive recommendations of over 30 experts in Traffic Safety and Law Enforcement, to change government policy towards street safety and create true deterrents to dangerous driving in New York City. In the coming months, T.A. will push the NYPD to adopt these methods to understand how best to approach the problems of dangerous driving. These reports and efforts were made possible in part by an Alliance for Biking & Walking Advocacy Advance Grant.Download the reports: Executive Order: A Mayoral Strategy for Traffic Safety and From Chaos to Compliance: How the NYPD Can Grasp New York City’s Traffic Safety Problem 2009-08-31T15:15:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/nycs_budnick_bikeway_inaugurated/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/nycs_budnick_bikeway_inaugurated/#When:18:19:41Z According to New York City’s Transportation Alternatives (T.A.), “The completion of Brooklyn’s new Sands Street protected bike lane makes getting on and off the Manhattan Bridge as easy as pedaling. It also closes a painful chapter in the history of New York City bike advocacy.” In 2005, Noah Budnick, T.A.‘s Senior Policy Advisor, was seriously injured when he hit a pothole while biking on Sands Street and crashed. After four years of hard work, T.A. celebrated the opening Sands Street Bike lane (aka “Budnick Bikeway”) on August 7th. For more information on T.A., visit here… Media, Member News 2009-08-25T18:19:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mobikefed_dead_red_bill_becomes_law/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mobikefed_dead_red_bill_becomes_law/#When:18:09:41Z The Missouri Bicycle Federation wrapped up their 2009 legislative season with some successes, and some issues to come back to. Among the successes is a Sen. Bill Stouffer’s Dead Red bill which allows bicyclists & motorcyclists to proceed through a red light if the actuator failed to detect the vehicle. The Dead Red bill was signed by Missouri Governor Jay Nixon and became law on August 28th.  Another controversial bill to allow much greater equestrian access to trails and public lands was strongly opposed by mountain biking and trails groups because of technical details about the way it was written. Thanks to opposition voiced by MoBikeFed and other groups and MoBikeFed’s testimony at two key hearings, the bill was re-written to remove the problematic portions. The improved version was passed and signed by Governor Nixon. For more related news from Missouri’s 2009 legislative season, visit here… Media, Member News 2009-08-25T18:09:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_pittsburghs_2009_bikefest_a_smashing_success/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_pittsburghs_2009_bikefest_a_smashing_success/#When:18:55:41Z According to Bike Pittsburgh, their 2009 Bike Fest had 50+ events on the calendar attracting people from far and wide. The fundraiser party was packed with over 500 attendees raising nearly $14,000 for bicycle advocacy. The group parked over 200 bikes, raffled off a Cannondale Quick 4, and even offered great dance floor shots. Visit http://bike-pgh.org/events/bikefest/ for more info and to see pictures from the event. Member News 2009-08-23T18:55:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/la_bike_lane_saved/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/la_bike_lane_saved/#When:15:44:41Z The Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC) and local residents successfully saved the Reseda Boulevard bike lane from being removed. About 60 people attended the August 11th Northridge West Neighborhood Council meeting to protest the proposal to remove the bike lane in order to install peak hour traffic lanes on Reseda Boulevard. Their voices, along with others who wrote letters to Councilmember Zine’s office and to West Valley DOT, resulted in the proposal being unanimously voted down. According the LACBC, “The implementation of peak hour lanes would make it impossible to install the already approved bike lane extension and would also have resulted in the partial removal of some of the existing lane.” To read about the Los Angeles DOT’s reaction that they were never planning these peak hour lanes, click here… Click here for more info on LACBC. Media, Member News 2009-08-14T15:44:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/comprehensive_bicycle_plan_in_the_works_for_door_county/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/comprehensive_bicycle_plan_in_the_works_for_door_county/#When:21:42:41Z The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin is working with the Door County Silent Sports Alliance towards better bicycle planning and facilities throughout the Door County, a popular Midwest vacation area. According to the Bike Fed, they are “developing the first Comprehensive Bicycle Plan for Door County’s Town of Gibraltar. This plan will steer the development of bicycle facilities throughout the area and will help make Gibraltar safer and more accessible to cyclists for recreation and transportation.” For more information on the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, click here. For more information on the bicycle plan, click here. Media, Member News 2009-08-11T21:42:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/omahas_bicycle_route_system_opens/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/omahas_bicycle_route_system_opens/#When:17:54:41Z According to Activate Omaha, Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle ceremoniously opened the first segment of Omaha’s on-street bicycle route system on August 10th with the shredding of a ribbon. Activate Omaha and the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee to the Mayor performed the ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the first segment of the Bike Omaha system, a planned 20 miles of on street bicycle facilities. To learn more about Activate Omaha, click here… Media, Member News 2009-08-10T17:54:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/walkroll_benefits_from_giving_grill/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/walkroll_benefits_from_giving_grill/#When:16:50:41Z Walk+Roll is benefiting today, August 6th, from the Whole Foods Market weekly Giving Grill in University Heights, Ohio. Every Thursday this summer, for a $5 donation, customers will receive a grilled meal pack from Whole Foods. According to Whole Foods, “100% of the proceeds are donated to a community group whose mission is tied to Whole Foods Market core values. Walk+Roll will also host a guided bicycle tour from Cleveland’s Public Square and University Circle to Giving Grill.” To read about the event on the Whole Foods Market website, click here… For more information on Walk+Roll, click here… Media, Member News 2009-08-06T16:50:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bicycle_safety_act_goes_into_effect_in_colorado/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bicycle_safety_act_goes_into_effect_in_colorado/#When:17:26:41Z Colorado bicyclists are excited about the new Bicycle Safety Act, which went into effect August 5th. The Bicycle Safety Act was made possible through the supportive grassroots efforts of Bicycle Colorado members. The new laws, including a requirement that cars give a minimum of 3 feet of space when passing bicyclists, are meant to improve safety for bicyclists and motorists. The new law also allows bicyclists to ride side-by-side when the road is clear of other traffic. For more information on the new law, click here… Media, Member News 2009-08-05T17:26:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/ride_the_road_tour_promotes_cycling_in_calgary/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/ride_the_road_tour_promotes_cycling_in_calgary/#When:14:35:41Z On Sunday, August 23, the streets of Calgary will come alive with the sound of cyclists biking through the city to raise awareness about the advantages of pedal-powered transportation. The 14-kilometer ‘Ride the Road’ Tour is organized by the newly formed Calgary tour de nuit Society and will highlight the need for improved infrastructure for bike commuters. For more information and to register for the Calgary Tour, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-30T14:35:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/complete_streets_campaign_kicks_off_in_minnesota/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/complete_streets_campaign_kicks_off_in_minnesota/#When:14:32:41Z The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN) is partnering with other nonprofits and BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota’s Active Living Program to build a coalition to pass a statewide Complete Streets policy during the 2010 legislative session. BikeMN’s participation in the coalition is funded in part by an Advocacy Advance Grant from the Alliance for Biking & Walking. This will be a great opportunity for BikeMN to significantly increase its membership and train a network of bicycle advocates ready to influence future issues and campaigns at the state and local level. For more information contact Dorian Grilley at www.bikemn.org. Media, Member News 2009-07-30T14:32:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_funds_for_toronto_trails/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_funds_for_toronto_trails/#When:16:39:41Z According to the Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT), “The Ontario and federal governments recently issued a news release announcing more than $380 million in funding under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program and the Ontario Recreation Program. Three recreational trails projects identified as priorities in TCAT’s Platform will receive federal and provincial funding.” Projects receiving funds are the CN Leaside Rail Trail, the Gatineau Hydro Corridor bike path, and the Finch Hydro bike path. To read the full press release, click here… For more information on TCAT, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-27T16:39:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/biketexas_and_bcgp_organize_national_bipartisan_bike_ride/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/biketexas_and_bcgp_organize_national_bipartisan_bike_ride/#When:17:43:41Z On July 23, state legislators from across the U.S. took part in the 6th National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Bipartisan Bike Ride, organized by BikeTexas and the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. The 100 participants, including 14 state senators and 21 state representatives from 23 states, rode eight miles through scenic downtown Philadelphia. BikeTexas coordinates this annual ride in partnership with the local advocacy organization. According to Robin Stallings of BikeTexas, “dollar for dollar, this is the most effective lobbying activity we do to advance the state-level legislative bicycle agenda.” To learn more about the event and view photos visit www.biketexas.org Media, Member News 2009-07-23T17:43:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/pennsylvania_walks_bikes_receives_grant_hires_michele_barrett_as_new_presid/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/pennsylvania_walks_bikes_receives_grant_hires_michele_barrett_as_new_presid/#When:18:11:41Z 2009-07-22T18:11:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/connecticut_declares_1_for_biking_walking/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/connecticut_declares_1_for_biking_walking/#When:14:34:41Z In a huge victory for the Central Connecticut Bicycle Alliance (CCBA), Governor M. Jodi Rell has signed into law a bill intended to improve access for pedestrians and bicyclists. Under the bill, beginning October 1, 2010, a minimum of one percent of future highway and street funds must be directed to biking and walking projects. An advisory board will be established to work with the Governor, the Department of Transportation, and the Legislature. This bill was a key advocacy priority of the CCBA. Read the full press release here. For more information on CCBA, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-21T14:34:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/va_bike_trails_fare_well_with_stimulus_funds/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/va_bike_trails_fare_well_with_stimulus_funds/#When:00:31:41Z According to the Virginia Bicycle Federation, “A number of Virginia’s bike and pedestrian paths will now be completed thanks to the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 -  the “Stimulus” package. The Virginia Department of Transportation’s Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) acted swiftly to approve and submit a number of shovel-ready projects to the federal government for approval.” Projects include over 250 miles of trails for biking that might not have been funded without ARRA monies. For more information to the specific project click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-17T00:31:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marins_north-south_bikeways_becoming_complete/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marins_north-south_bikeways_becoming_complete/#When:00:17:41Z Years of advocacy by the Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC) has lead to 2009 being what they call a “banner year for San Rafael bicycle and pedestrian projects being completed or nearing completion.” Projects include the opening of the Cal Park Hill Tunnel in late 2009, opening of the Los Ranchitos bikes lanes in fall 2009, downtown bike and pedestrian improvements, and the Lincoln Hill Pathway. According the MCBC, “When these projects are finished, it will be possible to ride from north San Rafael all the way to Larkspur using bicycle facilities almost the entire way. This segment of the Marin County bicycle network, known as the North-South Bikeway, is rapidly becoming complete!” For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-17T00:17:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/consider_bikings_advocacy_earns_columbus_rank_as_sustainable_city/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/consider_bikings_advocacy_earns_columbus_rank_as_sustainable_city/#When:14:44:41Z Smarter Cities, a Natural Resource Defense Council project that examines cities’ progress towards environmental sustainability, ranked Columbus in its top fifteen because of its commitment to being bicycle friendly. The Bicentennial Bikeways Plan calls to double the city’s 50 miles of bike lanes and trails by the city’s bicentennial in 2012 and sets goals for 200 miles of paths connecting greenways and activity centers by 2018 and 1,000 new bike racks by 2028. The plan is a result of the advocacy efforts of Alliance organization Consider Biking. To read about Columbus and the other sustainable US cities, click here… To read what Smarter Cities had to say about Columbus, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-16T14:44:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/philadelphia_reserves_lane_for_bicyclists_on_two_major_streets_in_center_ci/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/philadelphia_reserves_lane_for_bicyclists_on_two_major_streets_in_center_ci/#When:14:27:41Z The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia was instrumental in the City of Philadelphia’s plan to reserve one lane for bicycles on two major streets. The lane designation is a trial until next spring when the streets are resurfaced. Although cycling in Philadelphia has doubled over the last three years, there are currently only four miles of bike lanes in Center City and cyclists cannot safely ride from the East to West sides of the city. To read the press release, click here. For more information on the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-16T14:27:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/lacbc_lights_up_la/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/lacbc_lights_up_la/#When:00:26:41Z According to the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC), “LACBC has worked steadily to increase bike safety among low-income cyclists at the Carecen Day Labor center in Macarthur Park. We have distributed over 100 front and rear bike lights, taught 2 bilingual bike safety workshops and will be hosting bilingual bike maintenance workshops in July and August.  We plan to host bike rides and other events for the summer, in the hopes of expanding to another day labor center. Learn more about City of Lights ProgramFor more information on LACBC, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-10T00:26:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_bike_safety_classes_from_massbike/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_bike_safety_classes_from_massbike/#When:00:23:41Z MassBike is expanding its bicycling skills classes by popular demand. The new Intro To Bicycling Skills class covers bike-safety principles, bicycling laws, guidelines for riding in traffic, and more. The Basic Bicycling Skills class is designed for adults who want to get back into bicycling, improve cycling skills, learn to ride more effectively and safely in traffic, and/or participate in a large-scale benefit ride. This half-day weekend session provides guided instruction with simple practice drills in a parking lot, easy-paced riding on local roadways for short distances, and group-discussion breaks along the way. Topics covered include bike and helmet fitting, starting and stopping your bike in traffic, shifting gears, scanning and yielding, choosing the correct lane position in the road, handling intersections, and more. Learn more about MassBike’s safety and education efforts here… Media, Member News 2009-07-09T00:23:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/georgia_gets_its_first_bike_box/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/georgia_gets_its_first_bike_box/#When:18:08:41Z According to the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, the city of Roswell is now home to the first bike box in Georgia. Bike boxes are common in bike friendly cities such as Portland. Cyclists stop at the traffic light in a busy intersection and wait in the green box ahead of all the cars, thus being more visible to drivers. They are then able to make turns safely. Bike boxes are a cost-effective way to make cycling safer. For more information, click here… To learn more about Roswell’s new bike box check out the full story here… Media, Member News 2009-07-08T18:08:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_racks_on_buses_roll-out_in_milwaukee/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_racks_on_buses_roll-out_in_milwaukee/#When:00:42:41Z The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin spoke during the Milwaukee County Transit System’s launch of the Bikes on Buses program in Milwaukee. According to the Bike Fed, “After five years of working on the campaign, Shea Schachameyer from the Bike Fed was pleased to load her bike onto one of the two buses and enjoy the ride to O’Donnell Park where others where able to try loading and unloading their bikes from the racks. Throughout the summer the Bike Fed, MCTS and 91.7 WMSE will collaborate on promoting the program through on-site demonstrations like those which took place during Milwaukee’s Bike to Work Week.” For more information on MCTS’ Bikes on Buses program, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-07T00:42:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bta_launches_eye_to_eye_campaign_for_summer_2009/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bta_launches_eye_to_eye_campaign_for_summer_2009/#When:00:37:41Z According to Oregon’s Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA), “The BTA and partners launched this summer’s Eye to Eye campaign activities with a press conference and bike bell giveaway on Thursday, June 25, with the theme “Room to Breathe.” As more people take advantage of summer weather to bike and walk, we’re reminding everyone to give each other some extra space on our streets and paths by slowing down when necessary, increasing passing distance, using turn signals, and giving pedestrians and other cyclists an audible signal (like the ring of bike bell!) before passing.” 

 For more information on the Eye to Eye PSA video and BTA’s summer calendar of events, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-07T00:37:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/wisconsin_cyclists_celebrate_legislative_victories/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/wisconsin_cyclists_celebrate_legislative_victories/#When:18:02:41Z The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin and the entire Wisconsin bicycle community is excited to report major legislative successes from this past month. According to the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, “On June 8th, Governor Doyle signed the “Dooring” legislation in to law. On June 29th, lobbying efforts from April became fully realized when the Governor signed the Wisconsin state budget. The budget contains Complete Streets legislation and an additional $5 million for bicycle infrastructure. The 2010-2011 Wisconsin state budget contains the first-ever state funded source for bicycle infrastructure.” For more information, click here… To learn more about WI’s new “dooring” legislation, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-06T18:02:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_walk_alliance_of_new_hampshire_promoting_3-foot_law/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bike_walk_alliance_of_new_hampshire_promoting_3-foot_law/#When:16:25:41Z New laws created last year in New Hampshire requiring motorists to keep a 3-foot distance when passing a bicycle are now in effect. The Bike Walk Alliance of New Hampshire (BWA-NH) has created public service announcements promoting the new law which have aired on 28 New Hampshire radio stations. BWA-NH has also participated in several radio talk shows and are selling T-shirts with “3 Feet Please” printed across the front and back. BWA-NH is also promoting the 3-foot law with the DMV via driver education instructors and is working with the NH Police Academy to ensure all the new bicyclist/motorist interaction laws are covered in their training program. For more information about BWA-NH’s 3-Foot advocacy efforts, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-03T16:25:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bicycle_colorado_watches_leaders_break_ground_on_stimulus_bike_path/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/bicycle_colorado_watches_leaders_break_ground_on_stimulus_bike_path/#When:15:33:41Z U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, Governor Bill Ritter, and other additional state leaders broke ground June 30th on the 26-mile reconstruction of the C470 bike path. According to Bicycle Colorado, “This $7 million Recovery Act funded project nearly doubles Colorado’s annual budget of federal funds for bike and ped projects.” Bicycle Colorado worked at the state level to add this to the recovery-funded projects after bike projects were omitted from the original list. For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-07-02T15:33:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_wins_45_new_bike_lanes/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/sfbc_wins_45_new_bike_lanes/#When:00:45:41Z According to the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, “After years of SFBC advocacy, on Friday June 26, the SFMTA Board unanimously voted yes on an ambitious Bike Plan and gave the green light to 45 new bike lanes.This is a momentous time for better bicycling in San Francisco, as these changes will dramatically improve bicycling and increase the number of people riding in San Francisco.
 SFMTA Board members heard over 3 hours of testimony from more than 200 supporters, including mothers with children in tow, business owners, health workers, city department heads and students who packed the hearing room and an overflow room in City Hall. This victory is the result of this testimony and more than three years of strong SFBC advocacy, including more than 150 letters of support from businesses, thousands of support letters, and countless hours of grassroots organizing by committed SFBC volunteers and staff. Together, we did it! See photos, watch a video and read what the media had to say about our victorious day.” Media, Member News 2009-07-01T00:45:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marin_county_bicycle_coalition_seeing_a_light_at_the_end_of_the_tunnel1/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marin_county_bicycle_coalition_seeing_a_light_at_the_end_of_the_tunnel1/#When:03:24:41Z Marin County Bicycle Coalition is excited about the recent progress made with the Cal Park Hill Tunnel, part of the North-South Greenway in California. The tunnel has been opened at both ends, which will allow cyclists to ride from San Rafael to Larkspur in five minutes versus more than 20. A second “tunnel within a tunnel” will safely separate bicyclists and pedestrians from the SMART train. Reopening the tunnel has been one of MCBC’s top priorities since it’s inception in 1998. For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-26T03:24:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/city_of_denver_to_advance_its_commitment_to_a_bicycle_friendly_lifestyle/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/city_of_denver_to_advance_its_commitment_to_a_bicycle_friendly_lifestyle/#When:09:32:41Z Mayor Hickenlooper announces bicycle infrastructure improvements, bike lanes planned in 11 new locations! The Mile High City is making it easy to leave your car behind! (Wednesday, June 24, Denver Public Works Press Release) Mayor John Hickenlooper today joined Deputy Mayor/Public Works Manager Bill Vidal to announce improvements to Denver’s “bikescape” or bicycle infrastructure. The goal of the upgrades is to create a comfortable, connected and safe environment for bicycling throughout Denver. Denver Public Works will assess the need of every designated bike route in the City for increased signage, bike lanes or sharrows (pavement markings that identify lanes that are shared by both cars and bicycles) in order to create a connected and easily recognized system for residents to enjoy. To accomplish this task, a change in standard operating procedure will be implemented: when street maintenance is being performed on City streets, bike facility improvements will be made as part of this new programmed and proactive approach to increasing citywide bike markings. This practice will allow an existing designated bike route identified by signage only to possibly be upgraded by adding a bike lane or sharrow if traffic conditions permit. Traffic volume and road width are factors that must be considered when streets with designated bike routes are assessed for bicycle improvements to ensure safety. Integrating these street assessments into Public Works’ existing work plans complements the current proactive process of routinely refreshing all bicycle oriented pavement markings. “Our goal is to make Denver as bicycle-friendly as possible and make it easier for cyclists to commute,” said Mayor Hickenlooper said. “Improving our bicycle infrastructure is an essential component in motivating people to leave their automobiles behind and instead ride a bike; it’s an affordable, clean and simple way to get around town.” In addition to this pro-active strategy to improve Denver’s bikescape, Federal Stimulus funds in the amount of $250,000 have been dedicated to provide bicycle mobility enhancements throughout Denver. The funds are allowing new bike lane installations at the following 11 locations: Mariposa Street - 8th Avenue to Colfax Avenue Larimer Street - Broadway to Downing Street Champa Street - 19th to 24th Street Welton Street – Colfax Avenue to 14th Street Tremont Street - 16th Street to Broadway Stout Street - 30th Street to Downing Street 31st Avenue - Downing Street to Race Street Martin Luther Kind Boulevard - Elizabeth Street to Quebec Street Yale - Syracuse Way to Quebec Street 22nd Avenue - Park Avenue West to York Street East 12th Avenue - Clayton Street to Madison Street Public Works will be applying new sharrows to enhance the above installations, as well as applying new sharrows to provide connectivity to, and with, downtown Denver. The special arrow markings alert cars to use caution and allow cyclists to safely travel in these designated lanes. “Traveling by bicycle is quickly becoming the preferred form of alternative transportation for Denver residents, and to encourage this trend we are committed to implementing new standards for bike routes throughout the City,” said Vidal. “Ongoing bicycle facility and roadway maintenance is essential to improving the safety and accessibility of roads and shared-use paths to bicyclists” Released late last year, the Strategic Transportation Plan (STP) provides a proactive approach to addressing Denver’s imminent transportation needs with solutions that are consistent with our City’s goal to be multimodal in our approach to solving our transportation challenges. This commitment to bicycle connectivity is essential to the success of changing transportation behaviors. Another project that supports the foundation provided in the STP is the joint planning effort between the Denver Public Works and Parks & Recreation departments on the Multimodal Access and Connectivity Plan. This endeavor is scheduled to kick-off this fall and will assess the on-street bike and pedestrian facilities as well as the trail system and the interface between the two systems. One of the central products of this plan will be a prioritized list of implementation projects to support alternative modes of transportation in Denver and aid behavioral changes. The largest impact we make on the earth through our personal lifestyle decisions is the extent to which we drive an automobile. Bike riding is a smart choice with its synergistic combination of multiple benefits, both to society and to the rider. As Denver strives to advance the quality of life in our City by encouraging safe bicycling as a viable means of transportation and physical activity, we challenge everyone to do the same: by improving bicycle access to your building or event, you can help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution which benefits the environment as well as the health of the community. 2009-06-24T09:32:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/santa_rosa_creek_trail_project_gets_unanimous_support/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/santa_rosa_creek_trail_project_gets_unanimous_support/#When:17:53:41Z In a major victory for Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition, Sonoma County Supervisors unanimously voted to approve asphalt paving of a 2.1-mile section of the Santa Rosa Creek Trail, a plan set back in the early 90’s. The existing gravel path will parallel the new paved path accommodating walkers, wheelchairs and all types of bike tires. The path connects two schools and is part of the county’s long-term goal of a route to the coast. For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-23T17:53:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marin_county_bicycle_coalitions_milestone_membership_hits_1500/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/marin_county_bicycle_coalitions_milestone_membership_hits_1500/#When:03:57:41Z MCBC is well on its way to reaching its goal of 2,009 members by the end of the year. MCBC hit the 1,500 member mark by recruiting a whopping 97 people in 15 days to help increase membership. Such growth enables MCBC to take strides toward pushing the completion of the North/South Greenway, as well as the completion of the SMART bike path. Congratulations on this tremendous achievement! For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-19T03:57:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/landmark_columbia_bicyclist_harassment_law/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/landmark_columbia_bicyclist_harassment_law/#When:03:45:41Z The Missouri Bicycle Federation is celebrating the passage of a bicycle harassment law which was passed unanimously by the Columbia City Council on June 15th, 2009, following a ninety-minute debate with about twenty citizens present. The ordinance, effective immediately, makes it a Class A Misdemeanor to throw objects at a bicyclist, or honk or shout for the purpose of frightening, disturbing, or threatening the bicyclist. The Ordinance may be modified in the next few weeks to include other vulnerable users. For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-19T03:45:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/lake_tahoe_bicycle_coalition_puts_mark_on_city_streets/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/lake_tahoe_bicycle_coalition_puts_mark_on_city_streets/#When:18:26:41Z According to the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition, “A new collaboration between the Coalition and the City of South Lake Tahoe began this month with the painting of bike emblems on city streets. This collaboration will assist cyclists in navigating through town and will increase awareness among motorists that cyclists are sharing the road.  The Coalition hopes to expand its painting project to other Tahoe communities and will maintain them annually.” More good news from Lake Tahoe, “The City of South Lake Tahoe earmarked $25,000 in the 2009 general budget for the purchase of bike racks to be installed throughout the city. Racks will be installed at City properties and will also be made available to local businesses who are interested.  The racks will be free to qualifying businesses who will be responsible for installation and maintenance.”For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-18T18:26:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/slo_city_council_adopts_4_million_budget_for_bikes/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/slo_city_council_adopts_4_million_budget_for_bikes/#When:18:19:41Z San Luis Obispo County Bicycle Coalition celebrated the adoption of a two-year budget that will add significant improvements to SLO’s bicycle network. According to SLOCBC, “The budget adoption is the culmination of over a dozen public meetings where hundreds of residents made their voices heard about the need for continued bicycle and pedestrian improvements. The budget adoption also marks the culmination of the Bicycle Coalition’s own Bike the Budget campaign, an organized effort to continue improving the city’s bikeways.” The budget will make significant progress on the Railroad Safety Trail, funds bicycle education efforts, staffing of a part-time bike programs assistant, and a fund for miscellaneous bikeway improvements. For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-16T18:19:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mississippi_river_trails_get_upgrades/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/mississippi_river_trails_get_upgrades/#When:00:40:41Z For over a year, Mississippi River Trail, Inc. (MRT) has been working with area agencies to install new route marking signs within the 72-mile Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) corridor. On June 6th (National Trails Day) they will celebrate with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration led by St. Paul Mayor, MNRRA Superintendent, and an MnDOT commissioner.  MRT also reports that MnDOT has received funding to sign the entire Mississippi River Trail corridor in Minnesota!  Riding in the MNRAA will soon be no sweat! For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-12T00:40:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_bike_lanes_on_the_way_for_toronto/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/new_bike_lanes_on_the_way_for_toronto/#When:00:38:41Z Toronto kicked off their Bike Month with a big win for cyclists when the Toronto City Council voted 28 to 18 in favor of new bike lanes on Jarvis Street in downtown Toronto. According to Yvonne Bambrick of the Toronto Cyclists Union, “This is a big win for our city’s cyclists, and for the Toronto Cyclists Union who got the wheels rolling on this issue last fall by submitting a report to Transportation that showed the viability of bike lanes, in addition to some of the proposed pedestrian realm improvements.  This is particularly important because the original scope of the Environmental Assessment (EA) did not include any consideration of cyclists, and was focused solely on the beautification of the pedestrian realm.” For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-12T00:38:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/forget_bike-to-work_day/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/forget_bike-to-work_day/#When:00:35:41Z Sure Bike Pittsburgh (Bike PGH) had a great Bike-to-Work Day with over a hundred commuters stopping in for their biker breakfasts, and with many more on the streets. The real celebrations, however, were after work at the Bike PGH Bike-FROM-Work Day Party in conjunction with a local brewery.  Over 500 participated and help haul kegs of “Pale Ale by Bike” to the shindig. For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-12T00:35:41+00:00 http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/dc_bike_to_work_day_draws_thousands/ http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/dc_bike_to_work_day_draws_thousands/#When:00:33:41Z According to the Washington Area Bicyclist Association, “Thousands of bicyclists turned out to celebrate Bike to Work Day 2009 at locations in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia.  Over 8,000 people signed up to participate in advance of the event, which set a new record for registrations. Bicyclists gathered at a total of 26 “pit stops” featuring entertainment, food, drinks, and raffles.  Experienced WABA volunteers helped lead “commuter convoys” from across the area to Freedom Plaza and other pit stop destinations. Convoy leaders assisted participants with safe riding and equipment tips as well as showing riders the best route to their destination.” For more information, click here… Media, Member News 2009-06-12T00:33:41+00:00