League of American Bicyclists:  Bicycle Friendly Community Program

On January 12, 2010, CRCOG, the Central CT Bicycle Alliance, and the Bushnell Theatre hosted a symposium on Bicycle Friendly Communities in the Autorino Great Hall of the Bushnell Theatre. 

At that event a packed house listened as Andy Clarke, President of the League of American Bicyclists, gave an inspiring presentation on the Bicycle Friendly CommunityProgram.  This program enables communities around the country to be recognized for their investments in, and commitment to, bicycling.  The League has a formal program to recognize communities – at the bronze, silver, gold, and much coveted, platinum level.

• Presentation, PDF

The presentation is not nearly as interesting when you look at the slides as opposed to hearing the presentation that accompanies the slides.  If you would like some elaboration on this information, please contact Sandy Fry (860-522-2217 x220) who can make a presentation in your town that fills in the details.

At the conclusion of the program, Andy was asked “What are the immediate things a town can do to make itself more bicycle friendly?” Andy answered:

• Signage and information:  if you have a trail make sure people know where it is and how to access it.  If you don’t have a trail, sign suitable on road routes.
• Develop riding opportunities to encourage folks to get on their bikes and ride.  Don’t start with a 10 or 25 mile ride.  Two to five mile rides are a great start.  Publish routes, or set up informal community rides.  Get folks started!
• On your routes or trails, pay careful attention to intersections, these can present real safety hazards.  Consider how bikes and motorists will use the intersections, don’t create unnecessary conflicts