Date:
Friday, September 05, 2008
Contact:
Melanie Coon, WSDOT Communications 360-705-7078
Paula Reeves - WSDOT Bicycle & Pedestrian Program 360-705-7258
OLYMPIA - Citing our state’s bicycle policies, facilities and programs, the League of American Bicyclists has named Washington as the nation’s number one “Bicycle Friendly State.” This award, the first ever to be given to an entire state, was announced during the National Pro Bike – Pro Walk Conference in Seattle on Sept. 5.
“I’m proud to have Washington recognized as a leader in our great progress in encouraging people to ride bicycles for recreation and as a transportation choice,” said Governor Gregoire. “There are many in the state who have worked hard to improve safety, education, and facilities for cyclists. All bicycle riders - children, recreational and commuters – benefit as a result of these efforts.”
“We are fortunate to have strong partnerships between local and state agencies, bicycle groups and healthcare providers who are dedicated to increasing opportunities for bicycling while reducing bicycle injuries and deaths,” said Secretary of Transportation Paula Hammond. “In Washington, we’ve developed priorities and strategies to improve bicycle connections, increase statewide coordination, and make biking a viable commute option.”
The Bicycle Friendly State Program is a recognition program that ranks a state’s bike-friendliness and recognizes states that actively support bicycling as a way of addressing climate change, traffic congestion, obesity and high fuel prices. States are rated based on their encouragement of bicycling through legislation, policies and programs, education and encouragement, places to ride, and planning.
Washington scored consistently high in all ranking evaluation categories. A few highlights of the state’s bicycling commitment are its exemplary bike-related laws and dedicated state-level funding sources for cycling related projects and programs. This has resulted in a signed and mapped statewide system of bike routes, education of both drivers and cyclists on the rights and responsibilities of cyclists. The results of the efforts are shown through the high numbers of bicycle use and membership to cycling advocacy and promotion organizations throughout Washington.
“On behalf of our 10,000 members, the Cascade Bicycle Club is proud to be part of the success that Washington has achieved in receiving this recognition,” said David Hiller, advocacy director of the Cascade Bicycle Club. “Through advocacy and education, we will continue working to make Washington State the national leader in bicycle transportation.”
States that apply for a Bicycle Friendly State award designation can receive national recognition and promotion of their efforts as well as feedback, technical assistance, training from national experts and further encouragement to improve their bicycle legislation, projects and programs.
The Bicycle Friendly State Program is generously supported by the national bicycle advocacy group “Bikes Belong” and bicycle manufacturer, “Trek.”
< Back to News Home