THE MAGAZINE OF THE LEAGUE OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS • FALL 2018 ISSUE

THE FRIENDLY BUSINESS PROGRAM TURNS 10 • BIENNIAL MEMBER SURVEY RESULTS NATIONAL PASSING LAW REPORT • ROBUST TOOLS FOR BIKE ADVOCACY • AND PLENTY MORE TABLE OF CONTENTS AMERICAN BICYCLIST • FALL 2018

2 Viewpoint: Shifting the Turning 10: The Bicycle Friendly Bicycling Movement to 10 Business Program Comes of Age Accelerate Progress By Executive Director Bill Nesper From breweries to churches, the Bicycle Friendly Business Program celebrates its first decade and IS NOVEMBER 27! 5 Enjoy the Ride: New League honors 1,250 companies that get people to pedal. Board Member Karin Weisburgh By Amelia Neptune. Finds Bike Safety Is Her Life’s Calling By Carly Adams 14 Making the Ascent: America’s Diverse Cities, Towns Make a United 6 Summer 2018: Clubs & Climb toward Bicycle Friendly Individuals Honor Roll Community Status 7 43,000 Cyclists Joined. The League’s Bicycle Friendly Community Program DOUBLE YOUR 20 Million Miles Pedaled. shares the map used by some of its recognized Challenge Accepted. towns and cities to climb their way to higher award IMPACT on By Christian Lampe levels. By Amelia Neptune. #GivingTuesday! 8 You Spoke. We Listened. University of Kentucky Takes Gold: Launched just six years ago, 18 Highlights of the 2018 A Bicycle Friendly University Case Study #GivingTuesday has grown Membership Survey to become a worldwide Sometimes you have to see how someone else has By Kevin Dekkinga done something to achieve it yourself. Witness the catalyst for good. creative investments and programs of the University Advocacy in Action: Last year alone, generous 24 of Kentucky, which cranked its way from Bicycle New Congress, New donors gave more than Friendly University Honorable Mention to Gold. Transportation Bill? $300 million to charity By Amelia Neptune. By Caron Whitaker on #GivingTuesday — a 55 percent increase over 27 Club Hub: Celebrating 50 Years 22 New Focus Aims to Boost 2016! For the League, of the Baltimore Bicycling Club Momentum of States #GivingTuesday 2017 was By Alice Smith The League doubles down to advocate for five our greatest showing yet. key actions that states must take to become more 30 Education: Network of League And this year, all donations bicycle friendly. Add your voice with these tear-off Instructors Tops 6,000 talking points. By Ken McLeod. made on #GivingTuesday By Alison Dewey will be matched dollar for dollar! 36 Thanks to Our 2018 28 Safe-Passing Laws: Elevating Corporate Sponsors Cyclists’ Safety, One State at a Time Make your voice heard— Learn the latest about America’s passing laws from Ride with The League on the League’s first white paper in a research series on #GivingTuesday. critical bike issues. By Ken McLeod.

GO IN-DEPTH with MORE Cover: University of Kentucky's Wildcat Wheels Bicycle Library celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2014 with a student employee reunion. UK climbed to Gold Bicycle BIKELEAGUE.ORG/FALL18MAG Friendly University status in 2018. Photo by David Stephenson, courtesy of University of Kentucky. This symbol means there's more online at bikeleague.org/fall18mag — Executive Editor: Design & Layout: DONATE ONLINE NOVEMBER 27 FOR Kristin Clarke, CAE Paul Halupka it's your one-stop shop for all relevant Clarke Association Content #GIVINGTUESDAY AT BIKELEAGUE.ORG/GIVE web links to our extended content. 1 VIEWPOINT T H E L E AG U E CO N G R AT U L AT E S FIVE “PIONEER” BFBs SHIFTING THE BICYCLING Of the original 13 companies that won Bicycle Friendly Business awards in 2008, five remain current award designees (BFBs must renew their status every four years to MOVEMENT TO ACCELERATE maintain standing). The League thanks and recognizes these outstanding models that show the profound PROGRESS difference a bike-friendly workplace can make to their employees, customers and communities.

BY BILL NESPER

LANDRY’S Natick, MA Bicycle Shop | 50 employees The League is celebrating an important birthday support the change and change makers on the Original Award: Gold | Currently: Platinum this month—our Bicycle Friendly Business Program ground locally. is now 10 years old! I congratulate each of the Thinking back to 2008 when the BFB Program 1,250 BFBs spread across every state, as well as was just an idea, I am astonished at how much the stellar Bicycle Friendly America Director Amelia a League award to a small local brewery can Neptune, who oversees this program. transform that business’s entire culture, even As the BFB Program enters the “preteen” years, its community. We want to continue identifying it has emerged as a wonderful example of how and helping organizations and people who are the League leverages its history and traditions already local leaders but who may not consider to drive transportation change in today’s world. themselves bicycling leaders, and yet they also But while we acknowledge this progress, we must can talk about bikes as a means to the end we’re Photo courtesy of Landry's Bicycles Photo: Brian Palmer Photo: pedal harder and smarter, and build a bigger team all after—healthier, better-connected, more- if we want to create a Bicycle Friendly America for agencies to community activists who do not vibrant communities. everyone in our lifetimes. ALTA PLANNING + DESIGN even think of themselves as bike advocates but With 800 bike clubs; 1,250 BFBs; 6,000 League Portland, OR Office One way is to become more inclusive than who share our same vision of healthy, livable, Cycling Instructors and 100,000-plus individuals ever, and the League is working on this as it sustainable communities. on our outreach lists—many of you committed Architecture / Planning / Design | 41 employees crafts its next strategic That’s why the theme for the local change makers—the League is getting ready Original Award: Gold | Currently: Platinum plan and incorporates to shift the bicycling movement into a faster, T H E O N LY WAY T O 2019 National Bike Summit is takeaways from the 2018 SHIFT. It’s a powerful word, more agile and inclusive force of change in 2019. membership survey CREATE LASTING both a noun and action verb Ride with us! results (page 8). We are a C H A N G E A S A of change. We, the bicycling URBAN ADVENTOURS Boston, MA bicycling organization filled NATIONAL MOVEMENT movement, must embrace Bicycle Shop | 8 employees with active riders, but we I S T O B R OA D E N O U R both. We must shift our also represent anyone Original Award: Bronze | Currently: Platinum B A S E A N D G R O U N D route—though not our core who gets on a bike or mission—to pick up new wants to ride (even if they O U R WO R K A S A participants along the way. By don’t know it yet). Our S O LU T I O N T O O T H E R doing so, we ensure not only vision is a nation where W H AT C O M C O U N C I L O F SHARED ENDS. a louder voting block with GOVERNMENTS Bellingham, WA everyone recognizes which to further influence and enjoys the many decision-makers, but also Government Agency | 11 employees benefits and opportunities of bicycling, even if they a more-robust mixture of ideas and voices to Original Award: Bronze | Currently: Silver aren’t bicyclists. The only way to create lasting drive us forward. change as a national movement is to broaden our base and position our work as a solution to The League is leading this change. We have a great other shared ends. reach and a great platform; it’s time to SHIFT into SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK a higher gear and use them. From our macro view Santa Cruz, CA The kind of change we seek affects a much of the past and current national landscape, we wider range of stakeholders, from health will be advocating on Capitol Hill, yes, but all to Hospitality / Food / Retail | 200 employees Original Award: Bronze | Currently: Bronze

2 Carly Adams Photo: Be Seen. Get the Green.

Join our campaign to raise awareness about the THE benefits of life-saving bicycle detection technology – ENJOY RIDE visit the link below to learn how to participate. N E W L E AG U E B OA R D MEMBER KARIN W E I S B U R G H F I N D S B I K E S A F E T Y I S H E R LIFE’S CALLING iteris.com/beseen By Carly Adams An avid cyclist and longtime supporter of the League of American Bicyclists, Karin Weisburgh New League board member Karin Weisburgh teaches joined the League Board of Directors earlier bike safety between her travels to such places as the this year in a quest to help others “enjoy the Finger Lakes of New York and Burgundy, . ride” and to support a safe, Bicycle Friendly America for everyone. While growing up in New York, Weisburgh spent practical guide, Weisburgh focuses on safety— summer days biking her neighborhood with friends. one of the main challenges cyclists face every The freedom she discovered on her bicycle planted time they ride. what would blossom into a lifelong love of cycling. Her commitment to advancing “I love biking for the fun of biking, being outdoors education led her to become a League Cycling and getting exercise,” says Weisburgh. Instructor in 2015, and Weisburgh now teaches As an adult, she carried that passion into her bike safety to children in New York. Her hope is workplace, actively engaging coworkers in to “improve safety awareness” at the local and healthy modes of transportation through bike- state levels, a goal she aims to achieve through her to-work events. service on the League Board of Directors. “It is important for people to commute by bike Weisburgh cherishes time spent cycling around instead of blindly getting into a car because of the the world with her husband. Most recently, their health and environmental benefits it provides,” bike touring excursions have taken them to France, Weisburgh notes. Uruguay and Argentina. Now retired, she not only advocates for alternative Weisburgh claims she is “retired,” but anyone can transportation, but also lives by example, having see that while “enjoying the ride,” she continues sold her car and committed to full-time bicycle her lifelong work to help others experience the transportation. Commuting solely by bicycle can joy of cycling. be challenging, so Weisburgh has shared her advice with others via a short book, Handbook on How Carly Adams is a communications intern to Commute by Bike and Ditch the Car. In this at the League ([email protected]).

5 43,000 CYCLISTS JOINED. 20 MILLION MILES PEDALED. CHALLENGE ACCEPTED. CLUBS & INDIVIDUALS HONOR ROLL

THANK YOU! IT'S FOLKS LIKE YOU WHO KEEP US ROLLING. By Christian Lampe The League of American Bicyclists sends a big, heartfelt thanks to the individuals, Nearly 43,200 people climbed onto their bikes to National Bike Challenge 2018 clubs, and organizations that keep the League pedaling month after month. take an astonishing 1.8 million rides as part of the 2018 National Bike Challenge, sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists. 6,620 riders joined as Participants—6,620 of whom identified themselves as “new riders”—cycled just under 21 million miles first-time bicyclists SUMMER 2018 DONORS during the May-to-September event. Albert Brian Brown of Ohio was one of the veteran $2,500+ $1,000–$2,499 $500–$999 pedalers. “I have immensely enjoyed the National The Challenge is now over, but individuals, Baltimore Bicycling Club Blackhawk Bicycle Bonneville Cycling Club Edward Kleinbard Bike Challenge 2018,” he says. “This is my fifth communities, clubs and organizations can continue and Ski Club Evanston Bicycle Club Veronica Massey consecutive [Challenge]. I … have not missed any to log rides and follow their progress until the Doug Davis Evansville Bicycle Club Rowland Mayor days throughout the entire event!” 2019 National Bike Challenge. Registration at nationalbikechallenge.com is free to individuals; Charles Denney KT Cycling Club Michael Payne Nancy Elton Nix took a regular Saturday morning organizations pay a small registration charge. Robert Dickinson PATH Peoples Advocacy Bryan Payne ride and encouraged friends to take part, too. “I Linda Eaton For Trails Hawaii Thomas Prager have ridden my bike each day for the past 153 Jon Graff Silver Wheels Cycling Club Col. (IL) Jennifer N. days,” she noted near the end of the challenge. Christian Lampe ([email protected]) is National Hunt-Raymond Family Brian Frank Pritzker Bike Challenge coordinator through Love to Ride, which Their careful tracking and pride of purpose were Eva Markiewicz Edward Gent Alan Severn manages the League’s event. Bill O’Grady Mitchel Godat Claire Thom echoed by many other individuals, companies and Roger Pierce Michael Hastings Sid Voss families who used the challenge to achieve different Walter Seifert Lloyd Humphrey Robert Ward goals ranging from weight loss to family time to Cathy Switzer Melissa Whitfield improved health. Some participants dug out their Mark Thomas old bikes from the garage and aimed to make it David Webb around the neighborhood; others geared up to ride hundreds of miles. “I congratulate all of the participants,” says League Executive Director Bill Nesper. “The main goal of the National Bike Challenge is to get as many people riding bikes as possible, and it’s wonderful to see how this event motivates people to embrace all of the positive aspects of cycling. The League is proud to be longtime supporters—along with 3M and founder Kimberly-Clark—of a fun, friendly initiative that helps riders turn cycling into a healthy habit one mile and one day at a time.”

Photos: Maya Headley, To renew your support, Nubian Dortelus, Mantha McFarland, Narinder Williams and visit bikeleague.org/renew. Roger Mellon.

6 7 H OW O U R M E M B E R S LIKE TO RIDE YOU MEMBERS CHOSE “ALL THAT APPLY”

SPOKE. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WE 2018 MEMBERSHIP BY K E V I N LISTENED. SURVEY DEKKINGA Every two years, the League of American Bicyclists FEELING THE LOVE polls its membership to help it paint a better picture of members and supporters, e.g., benefits they most value, opinions on policy positions and thoughts on League programming and priorities, as well as demographic data. % The League wants to track how all of these OF benchmarks change over time, but perhaps the 90 LEAGUE MEMBERS single most important question for its Membership ARE “VERY” OR “EXTREMELY” LIKELY Program is, “Why are our members, members?” TO RENEW THEIR MEMBERSHIPS TOP 5 REASONS TOP 5 MOST IMPORTANT You have responded loud and clear: You support W H Y O U R M E M B E R S F U N D I N G & P O L I C Y the League primarily to support its federal ARE MEMBERS PRIORITIES advocacy efforts and impactful programming in your community. As a member-based advocacy organization, members are the lifeblood of the YOUR 5 FAVO R I T E You love receiving bike Promoting federal League’s work. The larger its membership, the more LEAGUE PROGRAMS magazine perks like and state laws that valued its advocacy on Capitol Hill becomes and the 5 Bicycling & American Bicyclist. 5 encourage bicycling. wider its reach on national legislative issues. In 2018, the League has doubled down on its You believe the League's Smart Maintaining and federal advocacy work, because in today’s changing FEDERAL ADVOCACY Cycling Program develops safe, expanding federal funding political climate, you value a strong and resolute confident riders. 4 for bicycling projects. 4 voice for bicycling. SMART CYCLING In addition to the survey results on these two & BIKE EDUCATION You believe that the pages, the League has scattered findings from the Promoting bicycle-friendly BICYCLE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY League simply membership survey into relevant articles across this 3 3 federal policies. issue of American Bicyclist. Get to know your fellow POLICY DEVELOPMENT makes biking better. members and see what matters most to the folks who make the League what it is. BICYCLE FRIENDLY STATE You believe it's crucial Improving legal pro- to support the League’s tections and enforcement programming. 2 for bicyclists. 2 “THE LEAGUE SENDS A MASSIVE THANK YOU TO THE 3,400 MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS WHO TOOK TIME TO PROVIDE US You know the League's federal Working with state advocacy and policy work governments on bicycling WITH IMPORTANT FEEDBACK VIA THE 2018 MEMBERSHIP SURVEY.” 1 protect your rights as a cyclist. 1 projects and policies.

— Kevin Dekkinga, Director of Membership and Development 8 9 C R E A T I N G A In 2018, the League is celebrating 10 years trips, or a basic bike repair toolkit for the office are BICYCLE FRIENDLY AMERICA since the launch of the Bicycle Friendly Business often how employers get started. From 13 awardees in year program. This milestone anniversary marks not But most BFB applicants don’t stop at minor one to 1,250 awardees in only a full decade of growth, but also the successes actions. After witnessing benefits of a bike-friendly year 10, Bicycle Friendly by thousands of employers and destinations across workplace and receiving national recognition for TURNING 10 Business awards have America who have embraced bicycling as a serious their initiatives, renewal applicants often report business solution. stepped-up investments, including installing inspired businesses to showers and lockers, forming employee bike clubs, THE BICYCLE FRIENDLY adopt bicycling as a key We’ve heard from BFB applicants that becoming establishing cash incentives for bike commuters, corporate solution—and a bicycle-friendly has undeniably transformed their and even moving office locations to become more workplaces—improving employee morale and accessible by bike. As a result, the payoff grows. BUSINESS PROGRAM core value. health, increasing productivity, and making plain- “The mental and physical health of team members and-simple economic sense for business owners. COMES OF AGE improves when commuting by bicycle is made Small efforts such as weekly lunchtime staff rides, a easy and accessible,” reports the 10,000-employee paper wall chart to recognize bike commuters’ daily headquarters of Target Corporation in its 2018 BY AMELIA NEPTUNE

2015 Architect of the Capitol (Wash., DC, 2011 2,300 employees, Bronze), which 2017 National Public Radio (NPR) wins Bronze maintains facilities (Washington, DC, 800 employees, now Every state now has at 1,250 for 40,000 federal Gold). NPR has been a staple BFB Mobile least one BFB, thanks to BFBs OCTOBER 2008 workers for the addition of Hawaii’s Workshop for National Bike Summit Congress and the BFB Program launches attendees from 2016 to 2018. National Weather Service U.S. Supreme Honolulu and Central Applications: 20 Court, is awarded. Winners: 13 1,000 Pacific Hurricane Center (4 Gold, 3 Silver, 6 Bronze) 500 BFBs (37 employees, Bronze). 100 BFBs BFBs

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

APRIL 2009 2012 2014 First Platinum awards National Bike Challenge launches after First two Fortune 500 companies given: Bike Gallery (Portland, League staff are inspired by the BFB reach Platinum. Facebook Ore., 125 employees), application of Kimberly-Clark Corporation headquarters (Menlo Park, Calif., OCTOBER 2018 and New Brewing (Neenah, Wis., 3,600 employees, Gold). 5,300 employees) climbs from Gold Company (Fort Collins, Colo., What started as an internal staff bike to Platinum, while Target Corp. BFB program 410 employees). Thirty challenge on a dry-erase board has grown headquarters (Minneapolis, Minn., celebrates its 10- breweries across the U.S. are to a national online platform engaging 10,000 employees) receives Platinum, year anniversary BFBs; breweries are among tens of thousands of riders every the first Fortune 100 company to with 87 applications the BFB Program’s fastest- summer for the last six years. achieve such a high award in one try! submitted in the Fall growing sectors. FEBRUARY 2018 round. Awards will be announced in December. Photo: New First Super Bowl held at a BFB, Belgium Brewing First Fortune 500 company becomes U.S. Bank Stadium (Minneapolis, Company. a BFB: Flour (Greenville, SC, 2,200 Minn., 73 employees, Bronze). employees, Bronze). Today, 40 Fortune 500 headquarters or subsidiaries are BFBs. U.S. Bank Stadium photo by Tiffany Rose Studios, courtesy of Mortenson Construction and Meet Minneapolis 10 11 The BFB Program is financially supported in part by Dero, a Platinum THE OF BFB bike parking manufacturer with 44 SUPPORT LEAGUE AMERICAN BICYCLISTS employees in Minneapolis, Minn. “Dero is proud to sponsor the Bicycle Friendly Business program, which helped THROUGH PLANNED GIVING guide us to attain Platinum status,” says Bri Whitcraft, director of marketing and product development. “We personally know that when workplaces support bicycling, employers and employees benefit in so many ways— express their happiness, health and a smaller footprint on Many of our members our planet. And beyond the bike parking and commitment to our long-term sustainability showers, this program stresses businesses to be active advocates for better bicycling, so by naming the League in their wills or trusts. everyone in their communities can bike safely on their streets.”

Photo courtesy of Dero With a planned gift, you can balance your personal financial goals with your interest in renewal application. “Overall impact to the “We’ve also been blown away by the range of environment is improved by taking cars off the ‘businesses’ that have come to the BFB Program supporting the bike movement... road for commuters. Our partnership with Bicycle to seek recognition and guidance,” says League Alliance of Minnesota gives us connections to Executive Director Bill Nesper. “The list of 1,250 for generations to come. our city, community and other bicycle-friendly current BFBs includes not just the expected bike businesses in the Twin Cities. Being a Bicycle shops and progressive tech companies, but also Friendly Business is also a positive recruitment elementary schools, bakeries, churches, zoos, city tool, since studies show more and more people halls, police departments, museums, barber shops, are trading automobile ownership for public daycares, federal agencies, urban condo buildings, transportation and bicycle transportation.” suburban office parks and even a volunteer-run For mid-size to large organizations with multiple community garden. There’s a lot to celebrate from offices, one choice is to work toward BFB status 10 years of diverse growth, and we continue to for all of their sites. Alta Planning + Design—one receive hundreds of new applications annually.” of five “Pioneer” BFBs that has held a BFB award With ever-increasing healthcare costs, a strong since the program’s inception—now has 13 BFB national sentiment to encourage more livable Founded in 1880, the League has the award-winning offices nationwide that range from communities, and an increasing corporate desire longevity and national reach to add Bronze to Platinum. to find meaningful connections for workers and value to your planned gift, delivering Another Pioneer BFB, New Belgium Brewing customers, the League anticipates accelerated the freedom and independence that expansion of the BFB Program and continued Company in Fort Collins, Colo., is the League’s only bicycling can bring. longest-standing Platinum, and its Asheville enthusiasm among winners to climb ever higher in location received an impressive Platinum on its first the award levels. try this summer. Yet another high achiever—Target “The sky’s the limit when it comes to creative headquarters in Minneapolis—received Platinum incentives, approaches and techniques developed on its first application to the program in 2014— by businesses determined to transform their the first Fortune 100 company to obtain the BFB workplaces,” Nesper says. “And the League stands Program’s peak award with its first attempt. ready with a virtual ‘support vehicle’ of tools and Reach out today to learn how your estate can For 10 years, the League has been inspired by expertise to help them reach the summit.” To learn BFB stories, often sharing these tales of the climb more about how your workplace can become bike help further the League's mission—and build a to higher award levels publicly on its blog (read friendly, visit bikeleague.org/business. more at bikeleague.org/fall18mag ). The route prosperous future for American bicycling. chosen varies, but the commonality of each leg Amelia Neptune ([email protected]) is director of the how-and-why journey is the power of the of the Bicycle Friendly America Program, which humble bicycle as a vital business solution. includes the Bicycle Friendly Business Program. Contact Kevin Dekkinga Director of Membership and Development [email protected] | 202.621.5449 12 STATUS UPDATES CREATING A BICYCLE FRIENDLY AMERICA Below we recognize the climbing communities who reached their latest peak in spring 2018, as well as—in their own words—samples of some of the paths taken to attain it. Look for the next set of these achievers MAKING THE ASCENT later this year after fall awards are announced. The League congratulates the following special achievers: AMERICA’S DIVERSE CITIES, TOWNS MAKE A UNITED CLIMB No Designation >> Honorable Bronze >> Silver >> Bronze Mention >> Bronze Silver Gold TOWARD BICYCLE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY STATUS Gulf Shores, AL Rogers, AZ; San Diego, South Bend, IN; Washington, DC Wilmette, IL CA; Highland Park, IL; Tallahassee, FL; The Villages, FL Jackson, MN Springfield, IL; Wake Las Vegas, NV; York, PA; BY AMELIA NEPTUNE Forest, NC; Orem, UT West Sacramento, CA

A little-known fact about the Bicycle Friendly as analyzing public-input surveys that capture the York, Pa. Jackson, Minn. Community program is that the vast majority of experiences of advocates and everyday bicyclists (Bronze >> Silver, pop. 43,859) (No Award >> Bronze, pop. 3,299) first-time applicants do not receive an award on riding on local roads. From data and firsthand “While planning a Bike to Work Week event in “When Jackson applied for Bicycle Friendly their first try. In fact, many communities apply to accounts, the League takes a hard look at the 2011, city staff became aware of the BFC program. Community recognition in 2011, there were still the program several times before earning a Bronze actions, policies, plans and outcomes that affect Since our participation in 2014, the BFC program some gaps in the trail networks. Since 2011, or higher award level. how a community feels to anyone who bikes or has become the fundamental platform for York the trail network connectivity has improved But central to the BFC program’s philosophy is the wants to bike, regardless of their age or ability. to continue our Bicycle Friendly Community dramatically. New trails also have been added to idea that every community—whether it’s currently This year, the League is celebrating Bicycle Friendly efforts.... Per the BFC 2014 Bronze Feedback the community. With more trails readily available, Platinum or Honorable Mention, whether it has Communities that have recently moved up since Report, the ‘No Bikes’ signage (referring to the there has been an increase in the number of cyclists 588 residents (Jekyll Island, Ga.) or 8 million (New their last application—an achievement made by sidewalk but confusing for riders and motorists) and pedestrians walking to and from work, for York, NY)—has room to improve and crest the fewer than 40 percent of returning BFC applicants. was removed and replaced recreational purposes, to go shopping, and to go to next hill to a new award level or even conquer a Some of these “climbing communities” have with bike-friendly ‘Walk restaurants/entertainment venues.” mountain to jump multiple award levels at once. progressed steadily in the past decade; others have Bikes on Sidewalk’ signage that communicates desired The BFC application and review process provides used more-recent BFC applications and feedback behavior versus implying a blueprint for these improvements across to inspire rapid change. 100 bikes are not welcome.” the comprehensive framework of the “5 E’s” (Engineering, Education, Encouragement, Amelia Neptune ([email protected]) (Read more about York's process at bikeleague. Enforcement, Evaluation and Planning). is director of the League’s Bicycle Friendly America 12/28/16 org/fall18mag ) More specifically, the BFC review process includes Program, which includes the Bicycle Friendly collecting data points from a robust menu of Community Program. You can find a full list of BFCs actionable options on the award application, as well at bikeleague.org/bfa/awards. Photo: NML Photography & Design

Orem, Utah Washington, DC Tallahassee, Fla. (Honorable Mention >> (Silver >> Gold, pop. 693,972) (Bronze >> Silver, Bronze, pop. 97,499) “The city’s investment in bicycling pop. 190,894) “Our community will see huge has been producing an increase in “The citizens of Tallahassee cycling and pedestrian benefits riders and a consequent greater and Leon County voted on a with the 10.6-mile Bus Rapid awareness of cycling as a serious penny sales tax extension that Transit project that will connect means of transportation. Together will provide over $1.5 million a Orem’s main commuter rail with transit and the city’s popular year for bicycle, pedestrian and station to Utah Valley University, Capital Bikeshare and new dockless trail improvements starting in University Place, Brigham Young bikesharing, residents have options 2020. This will fund additional University, Provo downtown and to driving…. The bicycle-to-work infrastructure improvements, Provo’s commuter rail station. mode share has been steadily and a new bicycle master plan The BRT system includes bike increasing from about 1 percent in is in the planning phases … to racks near each station, and 2000 to 3 percent in 2010 to over identify needed connections and bikes are allowed in buses.” 4.5 percent in 2016.... The city also links in our network.” teaches bicycle education to all second-grade students.” Photos courtesy of City of Tallahassee

14 15 ATLANTA SCORES BIG ON FIRST TRY Photo: City of Atlanta

Although rare, some BFC applicants enjoy success bike-share outreach in their communities. “We on their first try. Atlanta, for instance, succeeded have focused on educating and hiring only from recently in part due to the city’s Bike Share underserved communities,” notes the city’s BFC Champions program, a collaborative partnership application. “This has been an incredibly successful among the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, Relay Bike program.” To learn more about the Bike Share Share, City of Atlanta, WeCycle Atlanta, Urban Champions program and impressive bicycle- Explore America Perform and Red, Bike & Green Atlanta. This friendly achievements of this first-time BFC award innovative workforce development program recipient, check out the Atlanta 2017 Annual Bike by Bicycle hires 10 to 20 people part-time to conduct Report at bikeleague.org/fall18mag . ADVENTURECYCLING.ORG

B F C P R O G R A M C H A N G E S BOOST TRANSPARENCY, BFC SURVEY IS IT SAFE OR DANGEROUS PUBLIC INPUT TO RIDE A BICYCLE IN YOUR N E I G H B O R H O O D ? In 2016, the League revamped its public input process for the Bicycle Friendly Community program. SAFE IT DEPENDS DANGEROUS Moving away from its prior volunteer sign-up process for dedicated “local reviewers,” the League now works with BFC applicants and local bike advocates to ensure a PLATINUM public online survey is available for anyone to add input 44% 50% 7% when his or her community applies to the BFC program. In the five application rounds since the League made this change, the organization has collected over GOLD 31,000 survey responses from individuals in 300-plus 46% 48% 6% applicant communities. We know bike parking. The League also revised the survey to align with SILVER questions asked by the National Transportation Safety 35% 54% 12% Inside and out.® Administration survey, which reaches a general U.S. population every 10 years. These program changes have BRONZE enabled the League to show applicants not only how local bicyclists feel about riding in their community, but also 34% 52% 14% how responses by their community compare with other BFC applicants and national averages. HONORABLE MENTION 30% 52% 18% Want to ensure you see the public BFC survey the next time your community is under review for BFC status? NO AWARD All League members now receive the survey if they live in 23% 54% 23% or near an applicant community, so make sure your League membership information is up to date at bikeleague.org/join. Due to rounding in each category, percentages may add up to values slightly higher than 100 percent. www.dero.com (888) 337-6729 16 CREATING A BICYCLE FRIENDLY AMERICA This year, UK submitted its fourth BFU application, To increase safety and awareness, UK also which clearly showed itself worthy of near- has integrated bike education into each of its summit achievement. In the past four years, the encouragement programs. Every student or campus has more than doubled its annual bicycle employee who checks out a bike from the Wildcat UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY TAKES GOLD program budget to $500,000 and hired its first Wheels Bicycle Library must attend a one-hour bike full-time Alternative Transportation Manager, safety orientation, and anyone who joins the Bike A BICYCLE FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY CASE STUDY Sandra Broadus. Voucher, Cash Out, or Commute Club programs must take a similar orientation course with UK also has grown beyond the Big Blue Cycles multimodal components. Transportation Services program, introducing incentive programs that offer BY AMELIA NEPTUNE also offers personalized commute planning students and employees options to reap even more assistance for anyone interested in alternative benefits when committing to be car-free. transportation, as well as student transportation How does a college campus go from Honorable Mention to Gold Bicycle • The Bicycle Voucher Program is available to ambassadors who will accompany new riders on Friendly University status in just seven years? By investing in people, anyone new to campus or willing to trade in a trial runs of their commutes. programming and infrastructure—not to mention creative incentives. past parking permit. Eligible students or staff receive $400 in vouchers for use at any of five local bicycle shops once they sign a contract to be car-free on campus for two years. The first time the University of Kentucky (UK) winning a Silver BFB, and a year later was back submitted a bicycle-friendly award application to again, eager to participate in the Bicycle Friendly • The Cash Out Program for employees only the League of American Bicyclists was in 2010, University program as soon as it launched in 2011. has the same requirements as the Bike Voucher a full year before the Bicycle Friendly University Program but is only a one-year commitment While that first BFU application had some program launched. and includes a $200 annual payout. noteworthy accomplishments, it yielded only UK’s Transportation Services team and its 14,000 Honorable Mention status by BFU program • The UK Commute Club is available to employees submitted for employer recognition standards. One highlight, though, was the Wildcat anyone on campus without a parking permit, through the Bicycle Friendly Business program, as Wheels Bicycle Library, a student-run program that regardless of whether they are giving up many colleges and universities active in the BFU recycles abandoned bicycles for free, offers short- driving for the first time or have been car-free program still do. The Lexington-based campus with term rentals and provides bike repair services to for years. Benefits vary based on participant its 30,000 students received those national kudos, the campus community. category (employee, student resident or student commuter), but options include Determined to climb to the next award level, unlimited annual bike-share rides through Spin, the transportation team used League feedback Lexington’s community bike-sharing program; to further refine and invest in their program to free Zipcar membership; free transit; and a promote and enable safe bicycling on the 814- Guaranteed Ride Home program. acre campus. With $135,000 in dedicated annual funding, the university expanded bicycle education and facilities, using a diverse advisory committee to recommend how these funds are used. Impressed, (Above, left) UK holds a promotional bike event, the League upgraded UK to Bronze a year later. Pedalpalooza, during welcome week and runs a Wildcat Wheels Bicycle Library (above, right) In 2014, the university further advanced to Silver where students and staff can “check out” bikes. BFU status by rapidly growing infrastructure that (Right) Training and facilities also are available for included 400 new residential bike parking spaces, easy bike maintenance. a 30 percent increase in on-street bike lanes, and a 76 percent increase in paved, shared-use paths on campus. 103 Bronze After helping to guide the University of Kentucky Also new in 2014 was the Big Blue Cycles program, in its seven-year ascent through the Bicycle “which offers 150 students in on-campus housing Friendly University award levels, League Bicycle free use of a commuter bike–equipped with lock, BICYCLE 53 Silver Friendly America Director Amelia Neptune helmet and bell–for one year, given that they sign a FRIENDLY 21 traveled to Lexington to personally present car-free commitment.” In the first year of Big Blue 5 Gold the coveted Gold BFU award to UK during the Cycles, more than 400 students applied to use the UNIVERSITIES Through August 2018 Platinum 2018 Kentucky Bike Walk Summit in August. 150 bicycles. As access to free bikes and improved Sharing the excitement are (left to right) Shane bike infrastructure expanded, the bike culture on Tedder, UK’s sustainability coordinator; Neptune; campus also matured, with ongoing annual events Keep an eye on Sandra Broadus, UK’s alternative transportation such as Pedalpalooza held during welcome week bikeleague.org/BFA THE LEAGUE THE LEAGUE THE LEAGUE THE LEAGUE manager; and Will Varney, student manager of every fall and Bike Week held each spring. PLATINUM OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS GOLD OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS SILVER OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS BRONZE OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS the Wildcat Wheels Bicycle Library. this fall for the 2018 BFU awards!

18 19 Most recently, the university has focused on end-of- trip facilities, building its first indoor bike garage with showers and changing rooms for commuters and ensuring all residence halls have at least 20 percent covered bicycle parking. These milestones have paid off with achievement of UK’s biggest goal for 2018—a Gold BFU award, one of just 21 in the nation, the first of its kind in Kentucky, and the first in the ADVOCATES Southeastern Conference. “I am extremely proud of the progress we have EDUCATORS made over the past decade and am grateful for our campus partners that have contributed funding, as well as their time, effort and energy toward CLUB LEADERS improving campus bicycle infrastructure, increasing bicycle awareness and education, and establishing programs to further bicycling as a viable commuting option,” says Director of Transportation Services Lance Broeking. STRENGTHEN YOUR BIKE ADVOCACY The persistence and creative route taken by UK during the last seven years is an inspiring case IMPACT VIA NEW TRAINING EVENTS study for any university eager to reduce campus traffic congestion and parking crunches in favor of a more eco-friendly, healthy and bike-friendly The League is more dedicated than ever to environment for all. strengthening the work of bicycling advocates Unsurprisingly, with the help of the League’s latest and educators! application feedback report, the University of Kentucky is eager to continue its ascent toward the BFU’s highest peak: Platinum level. If it continues To help you build a more Sessions are designed to efforts at this steady pace, the League has little doubt Bicycle Friendly America, we’re strengthen your vital work, that UK can conquer even this exciting climb. inviting all advocacy, education organizational capacity and Amelia Neptune ([email protected]) is director of and bike club leaders to three effectiveness to make bicycling the League’s Bicycle Friendly America Program, which special meetings ahead of the better for all. Registration is includes the Bicycle Friendly University Program. T H A N K S T O 2019 National Bike Summit required, so sign up today at AT L I P R O G R A M SPONSORS March 9-12, 2019. bikeleague.org/summit!

MARCH 9 (AHEAD OF THE NATIONAL BIKE SUMMIT) AT THE HYATT REGENCY IN ARLINGTON, VA $125 PER REGISTRANT

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Active Transportation Leadership Institute (ATLI) Retreat 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Bike Club Leaders Meeting 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Bicycle Education Leadership Meeting Photos: (Above left) UK offers tandem bike rentals, mobile bike repair and (above) features increased capacity for bike parking. (Left) UK's campus buses feature bike racks for better mode share.

Photos: Mark Cornelison VISIT BIKELEAGUE.O R G / S U M M I T 20 TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER L E AG U E O F M I C H I G A N CREATING A BICYCLE FRIENDLY AMERICA B I C YC L I S T S L E A D S SUCCESSFUL SAFE-PASSING L AW C A M PA I G N NEW FOCUS AIMS TO BOOST With 58 cyclists killed and thousands injured just in the past two years on roads, the League of Michigan Bicyclists (LMB) worked urgently—and MOMENTUM OF STATES successfully—with other organizational partners to convince state legislators to adopt a tough safe-passing law that requires drivers to give a minimum 3 feet BY KEN MCLEOD of room to cyclists when overtaking them. The Michigan On September 27, this common-sense safety Legislature (above) As the League’s Bicycle Friendly State Program enters a new decade, measure finally went into effect. became the latest its focus shifts to guiding states through the top five proven actions “This is a major first step to educate the public governing body to needed to improve cycling safety and access. and improve bicycle safety in Michigan,” says LMB adopt safe-passing laws that include a Executive Director John Lindenmayer. “We are mandatory 3-foot space encouraged to see the overwhelming support between overtaking Since the League of American Bicyclists started its To further accelerate adoption of these changes, from lawmakers, law enforcement, and the general vehicles and cyclists. Bicycle Friendly State program in 2008, bicycling the League is offering states the use of its well- public for this new law.” Photo courtesy of conditions have improved in many states that regarded advocacy software, which already is League of Michigan Bicyclists responded positively to recommendations of the available to every League member organization. League, its clubs and its allies. The efforts of other The League also will continue its BFS rankings states, however, have lagged or stalled, and cyclists based on more-comprehensive data. continue to be at unnecessary risk. The strengthened BFS focus on picking up the ADVOCATE'S TALKING POINTS: In 2017, the League began focusing on what its pace of bike-friendly progress is complemented AN INTRODUCTORY CHECKLIST TO research shows are the five most effective actions by the League’s new oversight of the Alliance proven to significantly improve bike safety in every for Biking and Walking Benchmarking Report. 5 BICYCLE FRIENDLY STATE ACTIONS state. These actions support the principle that The benchmarking report has been published ensuring bicyclists are safe is a core responsibility biennially since 2007, and provides hundreds Want to better understand what your state needs to do to help keep you safe as you cycle? of all legislatures and agencies. of pages of studies and data about biking and Learn your state’s ranking by clicking on the interactive map on the League’s Bicycle Friendly walking. With publication expected soon, the State website, bikeleague.org/states. These short summaries give background you can use to report includes state data available only through help focus transportation officials on what’s most urgent: surveys distributed as part of the benchmarking 5 Bicycle Friendly State Actions: and BFS programs. Complete Streets. Complete Streets laws, Bike Plan. Adopted by a state transportation policies and resolutions take many forms, but at agency, a bike plan is a written strategy for future 1. Adopt a statewide 4. Spend at least 2 The Benchmarking Report also has been supported Complete Streets law, percent of federal their core, they express the intent that all people bike-friendly agency actions. A statewide plan by AARP since 2012, showcasing the organization’s deserve attention in the design, operation and serves as a basis for capacity building within the policy or resolution. transportation funds on commitment to “fun with purpose” activities bicycling and walking. maintenance of America’s transportation system. agency and for cooperation with counties, cities 2. Adopt a safe-passing that get people bicycling or walking as a means and towns, so bicycle networks can be Safe-Passing Laws. Safe-passing laws address law of 3 feet or more. 5. Make bicycle safety to combat isolation, promote healthy living and coordinated and completed. an emphasis area in enhance social engagement. the most common cause of bicyclist death—a driver 3. Adopt a statewide the state’s Strategic hitting a bicyclist while overtaking the rider. This 2% of Federal Funding. The U.S. government bike plan at least once The BFS Program—like all successful programs— Highway Safety Plan. type of law expresses the intent that bicyclists spends nearly $38 billion annually on transportation, every 10 years. continues to evolve, leverage changing deserve legal protection from the behavior that is including $850 million through the Transportation circumstances and adjust to new information. As most dangerous to them. They also can be the basis Alternatives Set-Aside for bicycling and walking. it enters the next decade, the League’s initiative for public education and enforcement. At press Spending at least 2 percent of federal funding on to aggressively advocate for the Five Bicycle To help every state move ahead with these steps, time, 35 states have taken the League’s Safe Pass bicycling and walking infrastructure shows that Friendly State Actions centers around helping the League is publishing a series of white papers Law Action. To check if your state is one of them, the state agrees with the intent of Congress in state transportation officials use federal and breaking down every action into manageable see the League’s new report, Safe-Passing Laws, on providing set-aside funding at that level for national programs in ways that matter most to the activities for clear execution. page 28. The nine-page report is available online at bicycling and walking. safety of cyclists. bikeleague.org/fall18mag . Each white paper also features one recent Bicycle Safety Emphasis. Each state is required to create a Strategic Highway Safety Plan campaign and one current campaign by a League Ken McLeod ([email protected]) is director of the to receive federal safety funding. By creating an member advocacy organization, showing how League’s Bicycle Friendly State Program. inclusive grassroots partnerships and expertise can emphasis area for bicycle safety, a state lead to genuine positive change. acknowledges that bicycle safety is an issue that deserves its attention and dollars.

22 23 AV S TA RT AC T ADVOCACY IN ACTION IN TROUBLE

The U.S. Senate recently missed an important NEW CONGRESS, deadline to pass the AV START Act that would affect the safety of bicyclists, thanks to advocates like you. NEW TRANSPORTATION BILL? The bill exempts manufacturers of THE ROAD TO REMEDIES: YOU CAN HELP autonomous vehicles from safety regulations BY CARON WHITAKER One way you and all bicyclists can help is to reach and allows each to sell up to 80,000 AVs by out to your new Member of Congress, potentially in year three. The bill requires manufacturers person during the League’s 20th Annual National Bike to safety-test AVs but does not permit the A new wave of legislators arrives in Washington, DC, post-election. Summit March 9 to 12, 2019, in Arlington, Virginia. National Highway Traffic Safety Agency The League plans to greet them with the urgency and power of to deny those exemptions based on test Meetings during the summit may be the first time results. The League is advocating for stronger millions of voting cyclists who want the next transportation bill to legislators—especially those new to Washington, safety standards to protect bicyclists ensure a more Bicycle Friendly America. DC—hear from bicyclists in their districts. Lending and pedestrians. your voice to those meetings makes a big difference. Bipartisan Senate bill champions are pushing If you cannot attend the National Bike Summit, to pass the bill this year, and if they do, there With $52 billion to spend on America’s annual For both of the past versions of national the League encourages you to set up an in-person will be little chance to amend it for the better. transportation programs, Congress will begin the transportation legislation, bicycle advocates had to meeting in your district. Not sure how? Stay tuned. In Bill supporters had until September 30 to try process of doling out dollars as soon as November. fight for continued funding of the Transportation January 2019, the League will publish tips and talking to attach it to must-pass bills and now aim to This process will be all the more complex because Alternatives Program, which represents points about how to arrange effective local meetings pass it in November or December. If passage the 70-plus newly elected representatives and 50 percent of federal dollars underwriting with your congressional representatives. is unsuccessful, Congress must start over, senators likely have little to no experience with bicycling and walking. Together, bicyclists comprise a movement of millions giving the League a chance to be part of a national transportation policy—much less Unfortunately, the League anticipates another — a constituency that cannot be ignored. stakeholder process. bicycling—prior to their move to Capitol Hill. battle brewing. Once again, the League will need Thank you to everyone who responded Bicycling advocates may recall that Congress cut to call on all bicyclists and related stakeholders to Caron Whitaker ([email protected]) is vice to the League’s calls for action! Watch for funding for bicycling and walking in the MAP-21 add their voices and votes to help the organization president of government relations for the League of new updates on the AV START Act and sign transportation bill in 2012. However, the League defend this financial lifeline for programs that American Bicyclists. up for the action-alert list at bikeleague. and its allies were able to stop efforts to eliminate protect and promote cyclist safety and access. org to improve safety requirements for the program completely. A 2018 membership survey confirms that the self-driving cars. Three years later, Congress passed the Fixing League’s successful tradition of leadership and America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act—the activism as an advocate for all bicyclists is the current transportation bill—which included some top reason why members belong. With 138 Attended a state or wins for the cycling and pedestrian communities by years of policy and legislative experience, the local bicycling summit slightly increasing money dedicated to supporting League already knows the actions that should be 5 bicycling and walking. It also created the National included in the next bill to move toward a more Priority Safety Program, a new fund for active bicycle-friendly America. Central to progress are transportation education for law enforcement, developing fresh transportation allies on Capitol Current member of MEMBER SURVEY HIGHLIGHT drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians in states with Hill and advocating for stronger financial support another national bike TOP 5 WAYS M E M B E R S TA K E high pedestrian fatalities. for a transportation system that improves safety 4 advocacy organization ACTION AS ADVOCATES through better planning, effective policymaking In addition, the FAST Act passed a Complete and adequate funding. Streets policy to ensure that federally funded roads Served on a Bicycle Members continue to reinforce the advocacy tradition accommodate the needs of all users. Advisory Committee or other that has grounded the League’s mission for more than 130 3 bike/ped advocacy body years: Communicating cyclists’ concerns is critical at all levels of government and agencies. Participants in the National Bike Summit personally educate legislators such as Sen. John Boozman (R-AR; left) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA, right, center front) about policies that promote and More than prior membership surveys, respondents voiced protect bicycling across the country. Current member the value of the League’s federal advocacy work. That 2 of my local or state jives well with the League’s major investments in advocacy advocacy organization throughout the Washington, DC, political landscape in 2018. More than ever, a strong national advocate on Capitol Hill is needed to stand up for bicycling in today’s Contacted Congress rapidly changing political climate. by email, webform 1 or in person 24 25 CLUB HUB CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF THE BALTIMORE BICYCLING CLUB

BY ALICE SMITH

Everyone loves an anniversary celebration, “Our club members share a passion for the especially when gifts are involved. But instead of sport of cycling and want to help other cycling receiving, the Baltimore Bicycling Club has used organizations whose missions align with the BBC,” its 50th anniversary in 2018 to give back, awarding says BBC President Renee Rees. “We are proud 12 grants in support of local and national bicycle to promote and sponsor bicycling activities in our programs, projects and events. local area, as well as nationally.” Locally, BBC sponsored the second annual Frosty On the national front in 2018, BBC funded the Cross race of the Baltimore Youth Cycling and a League of American Bicyclists for its Smart Cycling IS IT TIME TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP? Bike to Work Day by the Baltimore Metropolitan Learning Management System, as well as Adventure Council. It also underwrote bike racks along a trail Cycling Association for the U.S. Bicycle Route BIKELEAGUE.ORG/RENEW of the Catonsville Rails-to-Trails; promoted bike System (Route 1) in Maryland. safety and responsible riding through young bicycle “The League congratulates the Baltimore Bicycling ambassadors involved with BYKE Collective Inc.; Club for a half-century of great rides, cyclist and funded BikeMore’s mobile bike shop to provide engagement and generous donations to bike free service and repairs to neighborhoods without organizations and events throughout the region brick-and-mortar stores. and country,” says League Executive Director Bill In addition, BBC gave a local grant to Velocipede Nesper. “Its legacy shows the meaningful impact a to train volunteer staff about bicycle mechanics in single committed club can have on creating a more support of its Open Shop, which offers affordable bicycle friendly America one community at a time. bike repair for $10. Thank you, BBC, for your outstanding work!” Funding also went to safe cycling promotion efforts Established in 1968, BBC promotes and by the Frederick Bicycle Coalition in Maryland; sponsors bicycling activities in Baltimore City the annual Bike to School event of Bike AAA in and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Anne Arundel Country, Md.; school bike education and Howard counties. To learn more, go to by Bicycling Advocates of Howard County; and baltobikeclub.org. helmet purchases for the V-Linc, Inc. bike clinic for children with disabilities. Alice Smith is chair of the BBC Giving Committee.

The half-century-old Baltimore Bicycling Club heads out for a ride in Frederick, Md., with club President Renee Rees (second from left) and BBC Giving Committee Chair Alice Smith (fourth from center). 27 ADVOCACY IN ACTION D OW N LOA D O U R FREE A DVO C AC Y 9-PAGE SAFE-PASSING LAW REPORT T O O L S F R O M O N E FULL LIST OF EACH STATE’S PASSING LAWS HANDY PLACE! MODEL SAFE-PASSING LAW, FAQs , TALKING POINTS AND MORE BIKELEAGUE.ORG/FALL18MAG TOOLS TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR OWN ADVOCACY WITH OUR POPULAR SOFTWARE WANT MORE? LOOK FOR FUTURE SAFE-PASSING LAWS WHITE PAPERS AT BIKELEAGUE.ORG ELEVATING CYCLISTS’ SAFETY, ONE STATE AT A TIME Fifteen states are lagging behind the momentum, Obviously, adoption of a single law does not solely refusing or ignoring action on a safe-passing law ensure bicyclist safety. The law must be promoted, that directly places responsibility on a vehicular enforced and used to influence decision making BY KEN MCLEOD driver for maintaining a safe distance of 3 feet or about the best way to protect bicyclists. For more from a cyclist. instance, several options exist for effective signage to boost awareness of the law. Thanks to advocacy A new League white paper on passing laws and • States without a safe-passing standard are and education by the League’s representatives on Alaska, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, bicycling safety provides the latest advocacy tool for the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New , Devices, which creates U.S. signage rules, a national cyclists living in the last 15 states holding out against New York, North Dakota, South Carolina, standard should soon be approved. adoption of this life-saving legislation. Texas, Vermont and Washington. A full list describing each state’s passing law can be The League already is seeing promising efforts on found online. enforcement based on new technologies such as special cameras, radar and connected devices. In • The League has a model safe-passing law the future the League anticipates that automakers supported by talking points, a frequently- will develop automated systems that will internalize asked-questions section and guidance on how safe-passing and prevent drivers from improper to adopt model language. passing. The first step, though, is establishing the Few situations concern a bicyclist on the road more officials through the detailed execution of every • If you are a member interested in working principle through law. than overtaking vehicles. Overtaking crashes are action and why each had heightened impact toward adoption or improvement of this state the devastating “black-swan” events of bicycling. on bicyclists. action, contact the League to request free Ken McLeod ([email protected]) is director of the use of the organization’s popular advocacy Although overtaking crashes are relatively rare First to release is a white paper revealing the League’s Bicycle Friendly States Program and author software to promote the legislation. compared to other types of bicycle crashes, they urgency for state adoption and implementation of the Safe-Passing Law white paper. are the most common crash type that causes of safe-passing laws. Safe-passing laws define a death. According to fatality data from the National safe distance for a driver overtaking a bicyclist, Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 28 percent usually 3 feet. In the past 20 years, this type of of bicyclist deaths from 2014 to 2016 were due legislation went from a rarity to current law in a to drivers improperly overtaking. An additional majority of states. 8 percent of bicyclist deaths were the result of Today, 35 states have passing laws that meet the similar “parallel paths” crashes. League’s Passing Law guidelines, but the League In 2018, the League of American Bicyclists has wants these laws everywhere—widely publicized, refocused its decade-old Bicycle Friendly States well enforced and used as a basis for broader Program to advocate most strongly on the five traffic safety improvements. The first step to most-effective bike safety actions states could take. addressing a problem is recognizing that one exists, SAFE-PASSING LAWS: Key to this campaign is development of a series and a safe-passing law that creates a clear rule for I S T H E R E A S TA N D A R D of topical white papers to guide transportation drivers is definitely the first move to be made. IN PLACE?

States without passing standard

States with passing standard

28 29 EDUCATION FRESH PERSPECTIVES ELEVATE SMART CYCLING

Engaging and training new leaders in the bicycling movement remains a vital goal of the League, and the organization’s work in 2018 has attracted some of the most passionate people yet. Here are three of the NETWORK OF LEAGUE CYCLING latest Coaches hired by the League to provide the LCI training that helps drive program growth. For a full directory of Coaches, visit bikeleague.org/fall18mag .

INSTRUCTORS TOPS 6,000 MALIA HARUNAGA HONOLULU, HAWAII BY ALISON DEWEY Malia Harunaga was certified as an LCI in her freshman year of college. Driven by her passion to make cycling accessible to With the simple goal of getting more people on bikes and riding safely, everyone, she joined the Hawaii Bicycling League as its adult the League continues to expand and refine its educational programming, education manager. leading to a growing number of LCIs and wider uptake of League classes. “The Hawaiian Islands are quite geographically remote,” she explains, “so by becoming a Coach, I hope to be able to service and certify more passionate and patient, friendly and knowledgeable cyclists to help grow Hawaii’s happy cycling community.” Teaching others to bicycle safely and confidently • Created an online registration system to has always been a core value of the League of help LCIs save time and paper, as well as to American Bicyclists, and the effort relies on a make more money when organizing Smart well-organized and well-trained community of Cycling classes; BERNARD GREEN instructors educating people about how and why MONTGOMERY, CALIFORNIA • Added new presentations and scripts to ride safely. for instructors. Bernard Green has been teaching Smart Cycling since 2013 and In 2018, the League’s Smart Cycling Program In addition, continuous streamlining and became a Coach in 2018. He is an engaged member of multiple has continued its long tradition, reaching even upgrading of the Smart Cycling program have advocacy organizations: San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, California more people through its expanding network of resulted in easier participation for local and state State Bicycle Coalition, and Families of Color Monterey County. As League Cycling Instructors (LCIs) and its growing groups, government agencies, clubs and other director of Republic of Place, Green particularly excels at executing curriculum. This year the program crested 6,000 organizations to certify instructors. the Instant Turn (e.g., the Quick Turn). in the total number of people certified as LCIs, well ahead of 2017. The efforts are paying off. Already, the League is “I think of the bicycle as simply a tool—one that allows a mother to propel her children to school, and a seeing increased numbers of public health agencies champion rider to peak the highest ridge, sure—but a simple tool still,” says Green when asked why bicycle The program also achieved the following hosting LCI seminars to cultivate and grow their safety education is important to him. in the past year: network of bike safety educators. “I’ve heard it said that a tool is only as good as its user. And with most cycling-related crashes being the • Added three Coaches (trainers of trainers) to Teaching adults and children how to safely travel result of rider error, I’d say there’s a great opportunity for improved rider awareness and discretion. The accelerate the spread of classes; by bike is a building block for any healthy, safe and League’s Smart Cycling program happens to be the most thoroughly developed medium for delivering that • Translated the Smart Cycling Quick Guide vibrant community. If you would like to become message to millions of Americans.” into seven additional languages in response to an LCI, seminars are hosted throughout the the increasingly diverse groups seeking bike country. Visit bikeleague.org/fall18mag to find safety education; the nearest one. RÍO OXAS WOODLAND HILLS, CALIFORNIA Director of Education Alison Dewey (Alison@ Born and raised in Echo Park with Central American roots, Río Oxas bikeleague.org) leads the LCI Program for the League. is the policy and programs organizer of People for Mobility Justice. Since 2002, Oxas has worked across California and the nation on issues of mobility justice, transportation equity, food justice, healing COMING IN 2019! justice, land liberation, resisting displacement and much more. Oxas lists “institutional capital” as the top reason for becoming a With the League's new bicycle League Smart Cycling Coach, noting, “This is important for me and safety online learning system, for the communities I work with. I truly believe that the liability it will be easier than ever to [coverage] you get from becoming an LCI is critical, especially for access Smart Cycling resources. our more vulnerable LCIs. I want to be proactive in coaching LCIs Learn about safe riding via who are of resilient communities—those who are Black, Indigenous videos, quizzes, images and People of Color, Queer, Trans, Intersex, etc.” more! Stay tuned. Photo by Sonia Hernandez

30 Je ff Scher Photo: 31 TOP 5 REASONS TO ATTEND THE SUMMIT

Meet your representatives! At least 70 new members of Congress will be moving to Capitol Hill, most of whom have never thought of bicycling as an important transportation

BIKELEAGUE.ORG 5 BICYCLE policy issue. This is your opportunity to educate them! Learn and engage. Participate in workshops for bike clubs, FRIENDLY League Cycling Instructors, local advocacy organizations BICYCLE FRIENDLY DRIVER 4 and individual cyclists who want to be heard. (Pitch us your TRAINING TEACHES SAFE, presentation ideas at bikeleague.org/summit.) R E S P E C T F U L B E H AV I O R DRIVER TOWARD CYCLISTS America’s 6,000 League Certified Instructors are now Catch up with friends and colleagues equipped to teach motorists how to safely share the road (Top) Cemex trucks sported “Safer Roads from around the country. You are part of a with bicyclists, thanks to the addition of the Bicycle Friendly Together” signage to support the League's community of people who believe bikes can Driver training to the Smart Cycling curriculum. Bicycle Friendly Driver training. 3 change communities and lives for the better. Geared to drivers of large vehicles such as buses, delivery (Above)The League's Bicycle Friendly Driver trucks, and tractor trailers, Bicycle Friendly Driver training stickers, printed at various scales for different educates motorists about rules of the road, respect and sized vehicles, are awarded to drivers who responsibilities, whether they ride a bike or not. The training have completed training that makes them Experience an exciting new bike-friendly Summit is based on curriculum developed by the City of Fort Collins, safer and more aware. Colorado, and it already is being embraced by some of the site and fun learning formats. The 2019 Summit offers most influential organizations in the motoring field. 2 everything from bike racing in a parking garage to expanded “Roadway safety is the mobile workshops to a transformed conference format.* One good example is CEMEX, a global cement mixing responsibility of all road company, that presented the training to its Houston headquarters as part of its Safer Roads Together campaign. users .... By offering bicyclists “Roadway safety is the responsibility of all road users,” says and our large-vehicle drivers CEMEX USA Executive Vice President of Logistics Matthew the opportunity to trade Help us chart the course for the next decade. Wild. “By offering bicyclists and our large-vehicle drivers places, they can gain crucial Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Summit and take the opportunity to trade places, they can gain crucial insight insight that can help them part in the SHIFT that drives us the next 20 years! 1 that can help them stay safe when traveling the roadways. Continuing an open dialogue between all types of road users stay safe when traveling the increases awareness and improves safety.” roadways.”

The League will continue to market this young program — Matthew Wild, executive vice president *The League listens! In response to feedback from through clubs, LCIs, and other bicycling allies. of logistics, CEMEX USA past attendees, the National Bike Summit has been REGISTRATION IS OPEN! relocated to the heart of Arlington, Va., which is less VISIT BIKELEAGUE.ORG/SUMMIT expensive, closer to Reagan National Airport and a central kick-off spot for field trips—especially to the REGISTER, GET EVENT DETAILS, AND LEARN 32 offices of Members of Congress. ABOUT EXCITING SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES. Special Group Rates for Members•Code “LAB”

BreezerBikes.com

Face it, crashes happen. Sure, your health insurance will pay the medical bills, but it often requires you to pay a high deductible and won’t cover loss of income or other non-medical financial consequences. If you’re in a covered ALL CONDITIONS - NO LIMITS accident, Balance pays up to $150,000 directly to you to use as you choose. The Doppler mixes traditional touring Doppler with the versatility of bikepacking and Models From: $1,099-1,599 comfort of smooth-rolling 650b wheels. One bike, endless opportunities. Sign Up Online: CHECK IT OUT balanceforcyclists.com/bikeleague BreezerBikes.com/bikes/mountain/doppler

YOUR CAMPUS AND CITY BIKE PARKING EXPERTS

SECURE, FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR BIKES, BOARDS & SCOOTERS Ground Control Systems® offers a variety of innovative solutions to maximize end-of-trip experience and parking for most types of bikes, boards, and scooters. Our bike parking experts can help determine the most efficient solution for your project. THANKS TO OUR 2018 CORPORATE SPONSORS

ELITE ($25,000)

OUR MISSION

BREAKAWAY ($10,000) is to lead the movement to create a Bicycle Friendly America for everyone. As leaders, our commitment is to listen and learn, define standards and share best practices to engage diverse communities and build a powerful, unified voice for change.

SPRINTER ($5,000) STAFF

Bill Nesper Alison Dewey Amelia Neptune Executive DIrector Education Director Bicycle Friendly America Caron Whitaker Lorna Green Director Vice President, Operations Director Matthew Green Government Relations Ken McLeod Membership Assistant Kevin Dekkinga Policy Director Carly Adams Membership Director Communications Intern

CLIMBER ($2,500) BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ralph Monti Nicole Preston Mike Sewell Chair At Large Torrance Strong Ken Podziba Maria Boustead Karin Weisburgh Vice Chair Steve Durrant A.J. Zelada Harry Brull Max Hepp-Buchanan Secretary Karen Jenkins, PELOTON ($1,000) Fernando Martinez Director Emeritus Mark Thomas Treasurer Bob Oppliger

American Bicyclist magazine (ISSN 0747-0371) is published by the League of American Bicyclists, Inc. to LOCAL HERO ($500) help the organization achieve its mission to educate the public and promote awareness of bicycling issues. ©2018 League of American Bicyclists. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Article queries should be addressed to [email protected]. Your submission of manuscripts, photographs or artwork is your warranty that the material in no way infringes on the rights of others and that the material may be published without additional approval. Opinions expressed by writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of the League.

36 37 LEAGUE OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS 1612 K Street NW, Suite 1102 Indicia Washington, DC 20006

GIVE ONLINE NOVEMBER 27 BIKELEAGUE.ORG/GIVE