A pro-active and leading authority on bike riding in the US, the League of American Bicyclists, has released its 2015 State Rankings, highlighting which states are doing the most – and the least – to make bicycling a safe and convenient way to get around. Washington must be doing something right as they top the list for the eighth year in a row.
Most of the highest rating states seem to have one area in common – cities and towns are taking the initiative to implement street design elements like protected bike lanes, which the American engineering and government bodies shunned for decades. Other key factors, that are ‘streets’ ahead of Australia, include public campaigns such as Share the Road and Bike 2 Campus Week, a commitment of 2% or more of Federal funds spent on Transportation Alternative Programs, and the development of a bicycle and walking Master Plan within Government Departments.
The League outlines the Five E’s that are essential elements of a bike-friendly environment:
- Engineering: Creating safe and convenient places to ride and park
- Education: Giving people of all ages and abilities the skills and confidence to ride
- Encouragement: Creating a strong bike culture that welcomes and celebrates bicycling
- Enforcement: Ensuring safe roads for all users
- Evaluation & Planning: Planning for bicycling as a safe and viable transportation option
Read more here on the Top 10 Signs of Success, courtesy of the League of American Bicyclists.