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314 First Avenue South Seattle WA 98104 206.224.9252 info@bicyclealliance.org |
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| Bellingham | Everett | Kirkland | Redmond | Vancouver |
| Bothell | Ferndale | Longview | Richland | Walla Walla |
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| Burien | Kelso | Oak Harbor | Tacoma | Yakima |
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28 September 2009
David Byrne talks about bicycles in Seattle
Seattle Arts and Lectures and Elliott Bay Book Company present:
David Byrne rides a bike: all over his hometown, NYC, and the world. With his new book, Bicycle Diaries, he'll host a town-hall presentation on the role cycling plays in city life. Byrne will be sharing the stage with the Bicycle Alliance's Dave Janis and other local guests also interested in cycling and urban planning, civic responsibility, and the pleasures of the bike.
- 7:30pm: Monday, September 28, 2009
- Location: Town Hall Seattle
- There's just one ticket price ($30), and it includes a signed copy of the book.
- Tickets can be purchased at Elliott Bay Books [206-624-6600] or through Brown Paper Tickets starting August 22nd. (A limited number of advance tickets are available now to SAL subscribers on a first-come, first-served basis by phone only until July 31.)
23, 24, & 28 September 2009
Tacoma: Mobility Master Plan Meetings
You are invited to participate in the first community workshops for Tacoma's Mobility Master Plan. Come to discuss and identify existing conditions and opportunities to improve Tacoma's bicycling and walking environments, as well as connections to transit.
Wednesday, Sept. 23, 5:30-7:30pm
South Park Community Center
4851 S Tacoma Way Tacoma, WA 98409
Thursday, Sept. 24, 5:30-7:30pm
Norpoint Centre
4818 Nassau Ave NE Tacoma, WA 98422
Monday, Sept. 28, 5:30-7:30pm
Rasmussen Rotunda in Wheelock Student Center
University of Puget Sound
1500 N. Warner, Tacoma, WA 98416The Mobility Master Plan Public Meetings are being held in collaboration with the New Tacoma Neighborhood Council, West End Neighborhood Council, Community Council and the University of Puget Sound Transportation Task Force.
For more information, contact: Diane Wiatr at 253-591-5380 or dwiatr@cityoftacoma.org
25 September 2009
Movie showing and discussion: VEER
Film: "VEER" (98 min, Greg Fredette and Jason Turner, 2009)
"An intimate, behind the scenes look at bicycle culture."Friday, September 25, 2009Please join us following the film for a facilitated discussion on biking issues and culture in Seattle! (Event is FREE and open to the public! ...but Donations are kindly accepted).
7:00PM to 9:30 PM
Keystone Congregational United Church of Christ
5019 Keystone Place N., Seattle
(0.4 miles west of the I-5 NE 50th St. Exit - Metro Bus Routes 16, 26 & 44)
22 September 2009
Clark County: Bike/Ped Plan Open House
Vancouver, WA - Planning to improve conditions for riding bikes and walking over the next 20 years will be the focus for an open house on the evening of September 22. The open house will be held at:
6 to 8 p.m.Note: an open house previously set for that location was postponed due to exceptionally hot weather in July.
Fishers Landing Transit Center
Southeast 164th Avenue and State Route 14
Vancouver, WAProject Manager Laurie Lebowsky said the public will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn the status of this Community Planning project. In addition, she said anyone interested may provide input on these three topics:
- Potential updates to the Clark County Bicycle Commute Plan adopted in 1996.
- How to enhance planning reflected in the Regional Trail & Bikeway Systems Plan adopted by Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation in 2006.
- Broader concerns about how to make the county more "walkable" to promote health and safety for pedestrians both in urban and rural areas.
Lebowsky said a draft plan should be ready for additional review and comment in the fall, before it is forwarded to the Planning Commission and Board of Clark County Commissioners for hearings and formal consideration in 2010.
More information is available on the project Web site: www.clark.wa.gov/bikeandped. People interested in learning more may also contact Lebowsky directly at (360) 397-2280, ext 4544, or e-mail Laurie.Lebowsky@clark.wa.gov
13 September 2009
Orange Bike Parade - Sammamish Trail, Redmond
The Hansje Brinker Guild is holding the first Orange Bike Parade on September 13th, 2009. The Hansje Brinker Guild which was founded for the sole purpose of making a difference in the health and wellbeing of children through its support of the Seattle Children's Hospital and the Child Life Department at Seattle Children's Hospital.
This charity event is basically a bike-a-thon to be held in the Sammamish Trail in Redmond - from Marymoor Park to Chateau Ste. Michelle = 5 miles. The bike-a-thon has been named orange after the national color of Holland and biking was chosen as it is an essential component of Dutch daily life.
Registration only costs $10.00 and it includes a event T-shirt, water and snack before the parade. Participants may look for pledges (they will get their own website once they register where friends and family can make a secure online contribution) to support the fundraiser or just invite others to join them. The parade will end in Chateau Ste. Michelle with a "bring your own picnic" lunch (we will transport the food from Marymoor to Chateau Ste. Michelle) and there will be prizes for both adults and children.
Contact: Lilian Bergsma | Chairperson - 2009 Orange Bike Parade | 425-9226855
12 September 2009
Tour Wine Countries of the World...in Tacoma!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
5:00-7:00 PM
Wildside Wine
"The Room Next Door"
610 S Oxford in TacomaThe Bicycle Alliance of Washington and Wildside Wine invite you to a wine tasting in Tacoma!
- Sample wines from up to 9 wine regions around the world.
- Meet Bicycle Alliance representatives.
- Support bicycle advocacy and education.
$35 admission includes wine tasting and appetizers. Proceeds from this event benefit the Bicycle Alliance of Washington. Wildside Wine will donate 15% of all wine purchases that evening to the Bicycle Alliance as well. Space is limited, so buy your ticket in advance!
Contact Louise at the Bicycle Alliance, 206.224.9252 x303 or louisemc@bicyclealliance.org to secure your spot in advance.
7-12 September 2009
Volunteers needed for Trail Counts in Vancouver-Clark County
Calling all Bicyclists, Pedestrians, and Trail users - Make your trip count!
On Sept. 8, 9, 10 and 12, walkers and bicyclists on select Clark County trails, bikeways, and sidewalks may be approached by volunteer counters assisting in the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project. Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation is participating in the project, in partnership with City of Vancouver Transportation Services and Community Choices.
During the count, bicyclists and pedestrians will be invited to complete a short survey that will provide information on why people use trails, bikeways, and sidewalks; as well as what types of improvements they would like to see. Last year was the first time Vancouver participated in the count project.
The purpose of the count is to evaluate the demand, cost effectiveness of investments and current trends in trail use, biking, and walking. Information gathered during the count will be used to track trends in usage, opportunities for infrastructure improvements, and effectiveness of outreach and education.
For people wishing to help in this effort, two volunteer training opportunities are scheduled from 6-7:30 p.m., on Aug. 25 and Sept. 1, at the Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation Department Offices, 610 Esther Street.
It is estimated that 100 cities around the country will participate in the counting effort from Sept. 8 through 13. Metro, Gresham, Hillsboro, Tigard, Portland, the Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District and Clackamas County are also taking part in the effort.
Contact:
Eric Rosewall
Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation
(360) 619-1127
eric.rosewall@ci.vancouver.wa.us
August 2009
Tour de Fat: Thank You, Volunteers!
Thank you to the many volunteers who helped us out with beer garden duties at Tour de Fat! We poured a lot of beer, enjoyed the live entertainment, and celebrated bicycling. And thanks to your efforts, we raised $6000 for bicycle advocacy!
August 2009
2009 PIPTA Conference Report
Bicycle Parking: Build It and They Will Bike
by Every DayThe Pacific Intermountain Parking and Transportation Association (PIPTA) held its 4th Annual Trade show and conference July 26-29, and I went there with the notion that I would be educating some at the gathering about bike parking as a viable future for the industry. But as I listened to keynote speaker Dr. Donald Shoup, author of The High Cost of Free Parking (2008), I had my consciousness raised about two things. First, effective car parking management can be a form of environmental stewardship. Second, political power is inherent in having irrefutable research data--- such as 32% of traffic is cruising for parking, as cited in his book.
Dr. Shoup has three amazingly simple ideas about reversing our parking "urban planning disaster":
- charge performance-based prices for curb parking
- reduce or eliminate off-street parking
- transform communities through the curbside parking revenues generated within them
Influencing governmental bodies to rethink transportation policy and to fund Bike/Ped infrastructure change were ideas that both Dr. Shoup and the second guest speaker, Helle Lis Sřholt, of Gehl Architects, spoke about with credibility. Gehl Architects is now working on a project with the City of Seattle to transform a section of First Avenue downtown into a car-free plaza. Ms. Sřholt cited the book Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space (1971, Jan Gehl) as she explained that mobility, not transport, is the best compass for urban development, especially in creating sustainable cities. After these two speakers, I thought, "This is my tribe!"
My contribution to the debate was a Power Point presentation on bicycle parking facilities entitled "Bicycle Parking: Build It and They Will Bike." It gave an overview of how increased availability of bicycle parking, as well as other bicycle infrastructure, is instrumental in getting citizens to bicycle. The idea that having more bicyclists on the road will bring about the changes needed to generate more bicycling has been a 'chicken and egg', or perhaps Catch-22, dilemma in how to get more people to bicycle or walk, rather than drive.
I had always thought of Copenhagen as an ideal model for a bike-centric transportation culture. I researched the parallels between the transportation cultures in Europe and the USA, and discovered that this perceived 'Utopia' was not always bike-centric. Twenty years ago it was very much like America in its cultural dependence on the automobile. The single determining factor in creating the type of bike-centric culture found in cities like Copenhagen was a commitment from the government to change transportation priorities towards bicycles and pedestrians, and away from internal combustion. Their master plans spelled out bicycle parking as second only to bike paths in importance. The available surveys I found documenting the perceived needs of American cyclists affirmed that we would bike more if there were more secure and safer places to park.
The PIPTA conference made me want to join in researching and updating the data we have on bicyclists in America, and of course, to use this information as a powerful tool to help the Bike Alliance influence change in Washington.
11, 12 August 2009
Bike Share Expo
Many have heard of bike sharing from stories about Paris' Velib or Washington, D.C.'s SmartBike program, but wondered how it actually works. In Paris, Montreal, Washington, DC, and other regions around the world, people are using bike sharing as a new mobility option.
To help people learn more about bike sharing, King County will host three bike share providers for a Bike Share Expo August 11th and 12th. The vendors will display their newest bike share systems, including bikes and stations, and allow attendees to experience one of the hottest trends in mobility. The Expo will be held:
- Tuesday, August 11, 10 am - 6pm, Seattle
South Lake Union Discovery Center, 101 Westlake Ave. N- Wednesday, August 12, Noon - 8 pm, Redmond
Redmond Town CenterThis event is sponsored by King County, the City of Seattle, the City of Redmond, Vulcan, Redmond Town Center and Cascade Bicycle Club. REI and Whole Foods are also supporting this event. So bring your helmet, try out a bike, and learn more about bike sharing. For more information, check the King County website or call (206) 263-6230.
7 August 2009
TCC Friday Forum: Puget Sound's Transportation Future
TOWN HALL: Visioning the Puget Sound Region's Transportation Future
Part III - Perspectives from the State and Federal LevelIt has been a busy summer at Transportation Choices and as we head into August, the grand finale of our Transportation Town Hall series is quickly approaching. In May, we heard from an expert panel on some of the challenges facing the region on the transportation front. In June, we discussed a few exciting opportunities to address those challenges. In August, we're pulling out all the stops. Join our all-star panel of legislators and policy staff for a discussion on what it will take at the federal and state level to address our transportation challenges. Get an insight into their vision for the region's transportation future and find out what their plans are to make it happen.
Join us for a special discussion with our panelists:
- Senator Mary Margaret Haugen, 10th Legislative District, Chair of the Washington State Senate Transportation Committee
- Representative Judy Clibborn, 41st Legislative District, Chair of the Washington State House Transportation Committee
- Sheila Babb, Deputy State Director, Office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray
- Jennifer Ziegler, Executive Policy Advisor on Transportation, Office of Governor Christine Gregoire
WHEN: Friday August 7, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
WHERE: Bertha Knight Landes Room, Seattle City Hall, 5th Avenue between Cherry and James St. (please note change in venue)
As always, feel free to bring your lunch.
Shefali Ranganathan
Director of Education and Outreach
Transportation Choices Coalition
811 1st Avenue, Suite 626
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206.329.2336
Fax: 206.329.2705
www.transportationchoices.org
27 July 2009
The Bicycle Alliance's Traffic Signal Bill Gets Implemented!
During the last legislative session in Olympia, the Bicycle Alliance worked hard to get legislation to address the issue of vehicle detection systems not turning lights green for bicycles and motorcycles. We succeeded with Senate Bill 5482 (Section 10).
Now it is time to let jurisdictions know when those two wheels are not enough to turn the light green. While the detectors may not get fixed right away, they can prioritize locations based on the information you provide. Here is how to do it:
For state highways, contact the Washington State Department of Transportation, identifying the specific location at:
- online: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Contact/feedback.htm,
- or in writing at:
WSDOT Customer Service
P. O. Box 47327
Olympia, WA 98504-7327If you have questions about traffic signals on city streets, or county roads, contact the local municipality. Again, please identify the specific location. These web sites provide contact information for local jurisdictions:
- Cities: www.mrsc.org/cityprofiles/citylist.aspx
- Counties: www.mrsc.org/byndmrsc/counties.aspx
28, 30 July 2009
Clark County Bike-Ped Master Plan Open Houses
Clark County is developing a Bike and Pedestrian Plan to make it safer and more convenient for people to get to major destinations on foot or by bike. Informational public events will be held at the end of July to share the work that has been completed and to receive your input and opinions.
Open Houses:
Tuesday, July 28th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fisher's Landing Transit Center
3510 SE 164th Avenue, Vancouver, WA.Thursday, July 30th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Clark County Public Service Center, 6th floor
1300 Franklin Street, Vancouver, WA.More info at: Clark County website.
Summer 2009
Share the Road...and the Rules Bellingham and Whatcom County
The City of Bellingham Public Works Department is partnering with the Bellingham Police Department, the Bellingham Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Western Washington University and everybodyBIKE to launch a new bicycle safety education campaign titled: "Share the Road.and the Rules."
The goal of the campaign is to improve safety and reduce crash rates. This will be accomplished by educating motor vehicle operators about cyclists' rights to use the roadway and by educating cyclists about the rules of the road. By educating both motorists and cyclists they hope to see an increase in respect, courtesy and understanding between cyclists and motorists.
Share the Road..and the Rules is funded by the City of Bellingham Public Works Department, as well as with a grant from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. The City introduced the campaign to address the increasing number of complaints from both angry motorists as well as cyclists. Motorists complained about cyclists not following the rules of the road, and cyclists complained about motorists endangering their lives by not yielding the right of way to them.
Kim Brown, the City's Transportation Option Coordinator said that "the campaign will be on-going, focusing on different target audiences with specific messages. Our initial focus was about motorists and cyclists following the rules so they can safely share the roadway. Bicyclists and motorists are equally responsible for road safety. Our next emphasis will be about safe riding at night. We will work with WWU to educate students about safe riding, specifically using lights at night."
The campaign kicked off on May 23rd at the annual Ski to Sea parade. The parade entry featured a truck that was outfitted to show the recommended three foot minimum passing distance, while bicyclists rode along side it.
18 July 2009
Link Light Rail Starts July 18
Sound Transit's Link Light Rail launches its operation on Saturday, July 18. You may board at any station between Westlake and Tukwila and ride for free during the inaugural weekend.
Community activities are being organized at all stations along the route. The Bicycle Alliance of Washington will have information tables at the International District, Westlake and Othello stations on Saturday. Be sure to drop by and say hello!
Large crowds are expected for the launch weekend. Although bikes are allowed on light rail cars, we encourage you to park your bike and ride the train without it for this first weekend. Bikestation will be open 9am-4pm on Saturday and Cascade Bike Club will have bike corrals at select stations.
More information about Link Light Rail can be found at the Sound Transit website.
Note: No round-trip train rides (Opening Weekend only) Southbound trains will complete their trip at Tukwila International Blvd Station and northbound trains at Westlake Station. You will be required to depart the train at those stations. If you want to take a train back, you must wait in line again.
11 July 2009
Sekani Adventure Day
Bring the entire family (all ages) for this exciting day of adventure. Spark your curiosity, learn new skills and have fun with activities such as canoeing, bouldering, kayaking, rafting, archery, mountain biking, camping, cooking, long boarding, hiking and more! Local outdoor vendors on site for all your needs. Bring your own picnic (no food vendors).
When: Saturday July 11th: 9 AM - 6 PM
Location: Camp Sekani, 6707 E. Upriver Drive on the north bank of the Spokane River near Beacon Hill. (Shuttle available from Pasadena Park Elementary on Upriver Drive.)
Cost: $35 for a family of 5, each additional child $5, single person $15
Registration: Call 509-625-6200 or register at Spokane Parks and Rec website
9 July 2009
Children's Hospital Named Bicycle Friendly Business
Another Washington State employer has been named a Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists.
Seattle Children's Hospital received the Gold Award for its outstanding efforts to encourage biking in the workplace. The hospital employs over 4000 individuals at nine sites in King County, and approximately 560 of them bike to work.
The hospital has a full-time Bicycle Program Lead, Barbara Culp (a former Executive Director of the Bicycle Alliance), in their Transportation Department. In 2008, Children's gave away 100 bikes in six weeks to employees who agreed to ride at least 4 days per week for a year. They have given away an additional 24 bikes in 2009. The hospital also offers bike safety education and maintenance classes to its employees, route planning assistance for new bike commuters, a pool of errand bikes, a guaranteed ride home service, locker rooms, showers and towel service.
According to Culp, the bike giveaway has generated some inspirational stories. "One employee rides 9 miles from his home in Puyallup to the Sounder Train Station, hops on the train with his bike, then rides another 9 miles to his work site in Laurelhurst," she related.
Culp is proud of the hospital's success. "Seattle Children's commitment to bicycling is remarkable. It's an excellent example of leadership from the CEO and top executives," she stated.
8 July 2009
Shoreline Transportation Master Plan Open House
OPEN HOUSE
Wednesday, July 8 ~ 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Shoreline Fire Station
17545 Aurora Avenue N
What are Shoreline's Future Transit, Bike and Pedestrian needs?
Bike trails, walkways, paths, bike lanes, dog water bowls, sidewalks, bike rack design and location, crosswalks, water fountains, lighting, bus shelters, bus routes - as you walk, ride or take transit in the City of Shoreline, what do you think is missing? What - and where - are the community's most important transit, pedestrian and bike needs?These are the topics of an upcoming Community Open House that will kick off the update to the Transportation Master Plan (TMP). The Open House will be at the Shoreline Fire Station on Aurora and N 175th Street on Wednesday, July 8, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
The meeting is an open house with no presentation planned. Community members can drop in to check out the displays about the variety of transit, pedestrian and bike services and facilities that are possible. The goal is to gather suggestions on what should be included in these sections of the update to the City's TMP.
The TMP is a long-range plan that helps guide how the City develops its Capital Improvement Program, coordinate transportation improvements with land uses and better plan what is needed to respond to growth.
Shoreline is updating the TMP because of the significant changes that have been completed and that are planned for the City's transportation system since the last update in 2005. Completed changes include the Interurban Trail, first mile of Aurora and the pedestrian bridges. Improving the next two miles of Aurora and new bus rapid transit service from both Metro and Community Transit, not to mention the light rail, are changes that are coming to Shoreline's transportation system.
More info at: City of Shoreline website.
28 June 2009
Pride Parade: Call for Bicyclists!
On Sunday, June 28th, the Bicycle Alliance of Washington is sponsoring their first "float" in this summer's Pride Parade, and we want YOU to ride in it!
The "float" will consist of our beautified banner and a group of super cool bicyclists dressed for Pride with their bikes decorated. We will have music playing and a synchronized routine with the bikes and riders, for moments when the parade pauses (Think "YMCA" using hand signals). You will get to 'Ride with Pride' in front of thousands of cheering people, and be done in time to enjoy the festivities at Seattle Center!
We will have a planning and work/practice party on June 18th, immediately after the BAW open house, 6:30-ish.
There will be a bike decorating party at Bikestation Seattle on the 27th, from 4pm to 7pm, the night before the parade. You can also do that part on your own if you want, and meet us at the parade.
The downtown parade starts at 11:00. If you are interested, please contact Every by Friday the 26th and we can send you the details (where and when to meet). Contact Every at 206-224-9252 x304, or everyd@bicyclealliance.org
24, 25, 26 June 2009
Trail Development Workshops in Northeast Washington
The Northeast Washington Regional Transportation Planning Organization (N.E.W. RTPO) is hosting trail development workshops in Ferry, Pend Oreille and Stevens counties.
Pend Oreille County
June 24, 2009 - 6-9 p.m.
Ione Community Center
201 Blackwell, Ione, WAStevens County
June 25, 2009 - 6-9 p.m.
Ag Trade Center
NE WA Fairgrounds, Colville, WAFerry County
June 26, 2009 - 6-9 p.m.
Curlew Civic Hall
4 Washburn Street, Curlew, WAEach workshop will consist of three parts:
Part 1 : Origins and Background on Rail-Trails
Part 2 : Steps for Creating a Trail
Part 3 : Exploring Issues for Your TrailEach part will be approximately one hour. Among the topics to be covered are: trail acquisition, liability, benefits, railbanking, security, design development. Each workshop will be tailored to the specific counties and their needs. The workshops will include a set of handouts and a Q&A session.
Presented by: Sean E. Michael, Professor and Head Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning Utah State University His work has assisted trail development in Montana, Idaho, Colorado and Washington. His classes focus on land development in the West, including "gateway communities" and their relationship with recreation lands. Sean is an active outdoorsman, enjoying cycling, ATV riding, hunting and camping.
23 & 24 June 2009
I-5 Columbia River Crossing Project Open Houses
What's happening with the I-5 bridge project crossing the Columbia River? Attend one of these scheduled open houses to learn about recent developments related to bicycle/pedestrian facilities, light rail alignment and station locations, bridge type and design, interchange design, and financing and tolling.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Jantzen Beach SuperCenter
(Community Room directly across from the food court)
1405 N. Jantzen Beach Center
Portland, ORWednesday, June 24, 2009, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay (River Rooms)
100 Columbia Street
Vancouver, WA 98660The Columbia River Crossing Project is a joint effort between the Oregon and Washington State Departments of Transportation. You can learn more about the project at: www.columbiarivercrossing.org
17, 25, 29 June 2009
Lynnwood Nonmotorized Plans - Open Houses & Public Comment Period
Over the past year the City of Lynnwood has been developing a "City Wide" nonmotorized plan (pedestrian and bike) known as our skeleton systems. The skeleton systems will provide a framework of sidewalks, walkways, and bikeways to allow people to travel between most homes, schools, businesses throughout the City without using their cars. We have developed draft plans and have prioritized the missing links (see link below for more info).
We are now in our public comment period. Please review the Lynnwood Nonmotorized Plan and let us know if you have any comments. We will consolidate all the comments by late summer/early fall and finalize for Council adoption in the fall of 2009.
Public open houses will be held at:
- Lynnwood Fire Station 14, 18800 68th Ave W, June 17th, 5:00-8:00 pm
- Lynnwood Utility Maintenance Center, 20525 60th Ave W, June 25th, 5:00-8:00 pm
- Lynnwood Library, 19200 44th Ave W, June 29th, 3:00-7:00 pm
Thanks,
David Mach, P.E.
Project Manager
City of Lynnwood
425-670-5275; 425-670-5906 (FAX)
dmach@ci.lynnwood.wa.us
19100 44th Ave W
Lynnwood, WA 98036-5635
Lynnwood Nonmotorized Plan
18 June 2009
Open House: Check out our new digs!
Bicycle Alliance of Washington Open House
Thursday, June 18, 2009
4:30-6:00 p.m.Visit our new office in Pioneer Square
Hear about our goals and recent successes
Network with our members
Take a guided tour of the Bikestation
Light refreshments will be served309A Third Ave S
(between Main & Jackson in Pioneer Square)
Plenty of free bicycle parking!
18 June 2009
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition Annual Meeting
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition Annual Meeting
Thursday, June 18, 6:00pm - 7:30 pm
Spokane REI, corner Monroe & Boone
More information at: www.inlandnorthwesttrails.org
18 June 2009
Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board seeks new members
The Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board is an 11-member panel of volunteers that meets monthly and advises the city on the concerns and needs of the growing bicycling community. Applicants must reside in Seattle and agree to serve for a 2-year term.
If you are interested in being considered (applications are reviewed and those selected are approved by the City Council), send a letter and resume to Douglas.Cox@Seattle.gov, or by mail to:
Doug Cox
Seattle Dept. of Transportation
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 3900
P.O. Box 34996
Seattle, WA 98124-4996The deadline for submission is June 18.
See also Seattle Times article: Biking enthusiasts sought for panel
4 June 2009
Velo-City: Vancouver & the Bicycle Revolution
New exhibit opens June 4 through September 7 at Museum of Vancouver (BC).
Did you know that there are roadies, commuters, fixies and trackies, cruisers, couriers, cyclo-tourists, tall bike riders and the mini bike army, bike cops, choppers, pursuiters, randonneurs and critical massers, triathletes, freak-bikers, bmx'rs and downhillers in Vancouver? And that's just to name a few. Vancouver is a city of cyclists, a Velo-City criss-crossed by tens of thousands of cyclists of different types who are united by their passion for the simple joy of pedaling and bicycling.
This 7500 square foot exhibit about contemporary and future cycling in Vancouver, designed and curated by Toby Barratt, Nik Rust, and Pamela Goddard from Propellor Design, challenges people to think differently about an everyday object. It redefines the bicycle as a vehicle for artistic self-expression, a provocative symbol of counter-culture and as a tool for social change.
Share a photo of you and your bike on our Flickr group page (www.flickr.com/groups/velo-city/). Submitted photos will be streamed onto the Velo-Love Wall within the exhibit.
There are several events planned in conjunction with this exhibit, including: an outdoor showing of The Triplets of Belleville, guided cycling tours of Vancouver, panel discussions, etc. Check the Museum of Vancouver website for more details.
6 June 2009
Hood Canal Bridge Reopening Ceremony and Ride
The Hood Canal Bridge, a 1.5-mile link between the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas, reopened 10:19pm June 3rd, so a celebratory ride has been scheduled for Saturday June 6th. Port Townsend Bicycle Association, Squeaky Wheels of Bainbridge Island, and West Sound Cycling Club are planning the ad-hoc ride to coincide with the official opening.
- What: Hood Canal Bridge reopens - ride with other cyclists across the bridge, which will now have continuous shoulders!
- Where: Salsbury Point Park, on SR 104 near Port Gamble
[If driving, parking is available in Port Gamble and at Salsbury Point.]- When: June 6 - plan to arrive before 11am
More info on the Hood Canal Bridge at: www.hoodcanalbridge.com or call toll-free 1-877-595-4222.
1 June 2009
Donna Govro Joins the BAW Staff
Please join the Bicycle Alliance in welcoming Donna Govro, our newest staff member!
Donna is the Office Coordinator and Membership Assistant. Donna's varied experience, including office administration, human resources and sales has already proved beneficial to us. She is already working closely with volunteers and looks forward to meeting and working with more.
Donna previously worked as an office manager for a Pioneer Square architect firm and continues to bike commute from West Seattle and be a Bikestation user. In her spare time, besides bicycling, Donna enjoys hiking, volunteering, edible gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
1 May - 3 15 June 2009
Hood Canal Bridge is CLOSED OPEN!
The Hood Canal Bridge, a 1.5-mile link between the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas, will be closed starting May 1, 2009 for six weeks while the east half is replaced. More info at: www.hoodcanalbridge.com or call toll-free 1-877-595-4222.
May 2009
National Bike Month Events throughout May
May is National Bike Month and May 15 is Bike to Work Day. Communities around Washington State are planning a variety of Bike to Work activities. Here's information on the ones we know about:
Cowlitz County
Cowlitz County Bike to Work Week
May 11-15, 2009
Event Calendar.
More info at: www.cowlitzonthemove.orgBike to Work Spokane
A month of biking activities including an Education Fair, commute workshops, Walk & Roll to School Day, a kick-off breakfast rally, Energizer Stations, and a Commute Challenge.
Education Fair: Sunday, May 10, Riverpark Square, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Work off that Mother's Day brunch with a little ride downtown.
Kickoff Breakfast: Monday May 11, Riverfront Park, 7-9 a.m. Come downtown if you can for our big kickoff!
Walk & Roll to School Day: Wednesday May 13 at participating Spokane Public Schools. Last year we had 7 elementary schools; this year we have 9 elementary, 5 middle, and 3 high schools in Spokane Public Schools.
Energizer Stations: Wednesday May 13, 7-9 a.m., various locations countywide.
www.biketoworkspokane.org
King County
Cascade Bicycle Club organizes a month long Commute Challenge, Bike to School events, and a Bike to Work Day with a morning rally and 44 commuter stations around Seattle and King County.
April 28 - 2009 Vulcan Bike to Work Breakfast
May 1-31 - Commute Challenge
May 9 - Bike Works Kids Bike Swap - Genessee Playfield
May 15 - Bike to Work Day Rally, Street Party, Commute Stations
May 28 - UW Hubbub UW Bike Bash
www.cbcef.org/btw/Snohomish County
Snohomish County Bike to Work events give first-time bike commuters, die-hard regulars and fairweather cyclists a chance to ride and celebrate together. Event organizers encourage creative commutes that combine biking and buses, biking to your carpool or vanpool instead of driving, or driving part way to work (up the hills) and biking the rest.
April 30 - Bike Month Kickoff, 3-6 p.m. at Community Transit, 2300 Kasch Park Rd., Everett. Stop by for bike commuting tips, event materials, team captain cycling caps and a snack.
May 11 - June 12, Snohomish County Bike Commute Challenge presented by Group Health. Teams of 4 to 10 members compete for prizes and bragging rights.
May 15 - Bike to Work Day, 6-9 a.m., Celebration Stations throughout the region. Join elected officials and fellow riders at 7:30 a.m. for Celebration Rides. Visit the website to find a location near you.
www.communitytransit.org/biketoworkTacoma-Pierce County
Bike Month 2009 offers all kinds of cycling happenings. Events include a Kids Safety & Health Fair, Tacoma Bike Swap, Bike to Work Week Commuter Contest, family bike rides led by the Tacoma Wheelmen, and much more. A sampling is listed here, but check the links below for more...
May 2nd: 10 AM - 2 PM - Kid's Safety and Health Fair
May 7: 5:30-8pm - Green Drinks at the Hub
The City of Tacoma will host the monthly Green Drinks gathering.
May 9th: Noon-5pm - Wheelmen Family Ride: University Place
May 9th: Noon-5pm - Tacoma Bike Swap
May 11-15: Bike to Work Week Commuter Contest
May 13: 5-7 PM - Bike to a Better Tacoma at the Hub
May 15: Bike to Work Day Bike and Breakfast
May 21: 9 AM - 2 PM - Downtown Farmer's Market Opening/Bike to Market Day
Printable list of Family Bike events [pdf].
www.cityoftacoma.orgThurston County
The countywide 22st annual Bicycle Commuter Contest (BCC) will be held throughout May. Prizes from local and national sponsors will be awarded to top finishers.
Get registration information at ThurstonBCC.blogspot.com.Whatcom County
Celebrate bicycling all month long with Team-Up for everybodyBIKE, the 12th Annual Bike to Work and School Day, Bicycle Scavenger Hunt & Pedal With Your Politician, Adaptive Cycles Expo, and more.
May 15th: 6am-10am - 12th Annual Bike to Work and School Day
Bike or walk to one of the more than 30 Celebration Stations located throughout the county and enjoy refreshments, gifts, stickers, and a chance to enter the prize drawing.
May 15th: 5pm-7pm - Bike to Work and School Day Evening Celebration
Show your "I biked" sticker and get free entry to Boundary Bay for music, fun, and prize drawings for Whatcom County's most popular bike event, Bike to Work and School Day.
May 9th: 5pm-7pm - Bicycle Scavenger Hunt and Pedal with Your Politician
Search for clues by bike on a fun ride through Bellingham 's historic neighborhoods and greenway trails. Gather friends and kids and go at your own pace. Connect up with Pedal with your Politician ride at noon (optional).
May 16th: 12pm-2pm - Adaptive Cycles Expo
Everyone can bike with these cycles. Come try an amazing assortment of different designs of bikes that make it fun and easy for people of all ability levels to pedal.
May 1-31 : Team-Up for everybodyBIKE
WIN CASH PRIZES by bicycling and logging your trips in May! It's easy. Team up with family members, friends, neighbors, classmates or co-workers.
www.everybodyBIKE.com
18 May 2009
Spokane City Council Public Hearing on proposed Master Bike Plan
On May 18, 2009, at 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, the Spokane City Council will hold a public hearing to receive public testimony on proposed Master Bike Plan. Recent drafts of the Master Bike Plan, Planned Bikeway Map and Comprehensive Plan Changes will soon be available on the City's website: www.spokaneplanning.org
15 May 2009
Discounted Registration Deadline for Safe Routes Conference
The second annual National Safe Routes to School Conference will be held in Portland, Oregon, August 19-21. It provides a great opportunity to meet and learn from some of the best practitioners in the world.
To learn more or to sign up go to www.saferoutesconference.org.
There is a discounted registration fee until May 15th.
14 May 2009
Grand Opening of the King County's Marymoor Connector Trail
Now open to the public, the Marymoor Connector Trail is a critical link in the "Locks to Lakes" regional trail corridor. With the Marymoor Connector Trail in place, the cities of Seattle, Lake Forest Park, Bothell and Woodinville are now connected on the Burke-Gilman and Sammamish River trails with Redmond, Sammamish, Issaquah, and the Mountains to Sound Greenway via the East Lake Sammamish Trail.
Join us on the trail!Marymoor Park
May 14, 2009
11 a.m. - Noon
6046 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE
Redmond, WA 98052
Follow signs to the Marymoor Connector Trail's new boardwalk!Take a look at our new Marymoor map.
9 May 2009
Bike Swap Events around the Puget Sound
TACOMA
University of Puget Sound, Noon-5pm
Look for the big tent in the Wyatt Hall parking lot (1401 Union Ave, just north of the athletic fields).
More info at: Tacoma Bike SwapSEATTLE
Genesse Playfield, 10am to 4pm
Come on down to Genesee Playfield and trade up or down for the next bike. Come watch how a field of big bikes mysteriously shrinks into a bunch of little bikes by the end of the day. Get there early to get a good deal!
More info at: Bike Works website
April-May 2009
Spokane Bike Commuter Workshops
Eileen Hyatt, BAW board member and League Certified Instructor, is offering several bike commuter workshops as part of the Bike to Work Spokane celebration. The workshops will also feature roadside repair instruction by techs from North Division Bicycle Shop.
- Tuesday, April 28, 6-7:30pm at Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley
- Wednesday, April 29, 6-7:30pm at Mountain Gear, 2002 N. Division
- Monday, May 4, 6-7:30pm at North Spokane Library, 44 E. Hawthorne Rd
13 April 2009
Bellevue: Suggestions sought for new downtown bike rack locations
As the weather warms and bicycle commuters take to the streets, they'll need a secure place to park their two-wheelers. To help, the City of Bellevue is planning to install up to 25 new bike racks downtown and is seeking suggestions on where to place them.
Bicyclists, or even business owners who want to make bike-riding customers feel more welcome, may e-mail suggestions for downtown bike rack locations (along with a brief description of the exact placement) to pbmcgrath@bellevuewa.gov or call 425-452-2931. The deadline to submit suggestions is May 15.
Bike rack locations must be in the Bellevue right of way; they are typically installed on sidewalks where they do not interfere with other sidewalk users. The best sites are well lit, visible from the street and near the entrances to popular destinations.
If a site is technically feasible and is selected, Bellevue will install a bicycle rack at no cost to adjacent property owners. The downtown bike rack project will cost an estimated $5,000 and is being paid for through a $300,000 Growth and Transportation Efficiency Center grant from the state Department of Transportation.
Bellevue Bike Rack Locations Press Release
18-19 April 2009
Urban Cycling Techniques Course offered in Bellevue
Learn about urban cycling techniques at a Parks & Community Services course April 18 and 19, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Crossroads Community Center. Register for the $45 training at parksreg.bellevuewa.gov (activity 40420) or click on: Urban Cycling Techniques course description
Sat-Sun April 18-19, 2009
9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Crossroads Community Center
16000 NE 10th St.
Bellevue, WA 98008
11 April 2009
Legislation Status [Updated April 11th]
Good news: Policy language for Traffic-Activated Signals (formerly HB 1403) is alive again through an
amendment to SB 5482 by the House Transportation Committee.
This bill is now awaiting a second reading in House Rules Committee and a concurrence vote from the Senate.
More good news: Safe Routes to School
(HB 1793/SB 5743)
is out of the Senate Rules Committee and on the floor waiting for a vote.
Bad news: After last minute objections by the Washington State Troopers Association,
the 3-Foot Passing Bill (HB 1491)
did not make it out of the Senate Transportation Committee despite strong support from Senators Marr and Ranker.
10 April 2009
Fish Lake Trail Receives Federal Stimulus Funding
Bicyclists in the Spokane area will soon have another stretch of paved trail to ride on.
The Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC)
has awarded the City of Spokane $778,317 in federal stimulus funding for the Fish Lake Trail.
Construction is expected to begin by June on 4.4 miles of trail from the intersection of Government Way and
Sunset Highway south to Scribner Road near Marshall, connecting to an existing 3-mile portion of the trail.
(See a
map of the Fish Lake Trail.)
The unfinished corridor continues south to another paved segment at Fish Lake and Cheney,
then joins the Columbia Plateau Trail at Turnbull Wildlife Refuge and makes its way to Pasco.
Several years ago, the Bicycle Alliance helped organize the
Fish Lake Trail Action Group to
rally support for completing the regional trail. This group continues to be an active force
for the trail's development and they have a trail work party planned for June 6.
To get involved, contact Dan Schaffer.
April 2009
Improved Bikestation Amenities Are Now Available!
The Bicycle Alliance takeover of Bikestation management in February has greatly
improved the services available to customers. Thirty new lockers have
been installed (thanks to a generous donation and volunteer work), and
the bathroom and changing area are now accessible 24/7. There is also a
shop stand, for minor bike repair, which has already come in handy for
one early morning commuter.
The lockers are available to customers with
service plans and require a $10 key deposit. Come down and take a
tour! Also, take advantage of Bicycle Alliance member's $20 discount
when signing up!
April 2009
Berentson Bridge (Twin Bridges) Safety Project Completion
A major milestone has been completed to improve bicycle safety at the Berentson Bridges on SR20 in Skagit County.
The projects were funded through Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) safety initiatives,
designed by WSDOT staff with help and advice from the local cycling community. Full jersey barrier segregation of the bike-ped two-way crossing was completed this winter. Improved signage just installed at the bridge will help cyclists safely navigate the underpass system to the segregated bike lane when traveling eastbound. Two new bicycle crossings, one at the Best Road/SR20 intersection and the other at West March Point Road/SR20 intersection have been installed and will soon be activated.
This WSDOT traffic safety project was generated by a proposal from the
Active Communities Task Force (ACT),
a healthy lifestyles non-motorized sub-committee to the
Skagit Regional Transportation Planning Organization. Its purpose was to improve non-motorized safety at a key point in Skagit County where two national bike routes and several inter-county bike routes intersect. The famed Pacific Coast Trail (from White Rock, B.C., to San Diego, CA) and Northern Tier Trail (from Anacortes, WA to Bar Harbor, ME) both use this bridge, resulting in a lot of through bicycle touring in summer months. Regionally, the bridge is also very important, with the Coast Millennium, Cascade to Coast and Coast Salish regional trails all adding to the bike traffic.
The project also brings visibility to a regional effort to give bike routes in Skagit County a comprehensive
signing and logical numbering system. Route numbers and arrows on signs placed at a cyclist's viewing height
clarify the bike route and show mileage to the next major city at major route junctions.
The route signage also informs cyclists of lower traffic volume parallel routes such as the Tommy Thompson Trail,
a paved off-grade, non-motorized trail that crosses Fidalgo Bay into downtown Anacortes. Kiosk signs at the bridge offer local bike route information to passing cyclists to further inform and hopefully enhance cycling choices for visitors to the area.
The project was the result of persistent planning and efforts by ACT and WSDOTS proactive recognition that
there was a real need for this non-motorized highway amenity. The project involved getting support
and buy-in from state, county, tribal, municipal and bicycling organizations both with ACT support
and finally through WSDOT's project management and planning group to ensure that the neeeds of the
cycling public were brought together in a well coordinated plan. The cooperation among the regional bodies
proves once again that thinking globally, acting locally can make a difference in the safety and quality of ride for all cyclists. It is one of several innovations ACT has worked successfully with WSDOT to help improve and enhance transportation choices in the Skagit County region.
10 April 2009
BAW Website Redesign RFP
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington (BAW) is accepting proposals to redesign and reorganize
the organization's web site. Proposals are due Noon PST, Friday 10 April 2009.
Full details: BAW Website Development RFP [pdf]
April 2009
Staff Changes at the Bicycle Alliance
Two recent staff changes have occurred at the Bicycle Alliance:
After nine years as Membership Manager, Mark Canizaro has left the Bicycle Alliance.
During his tenure, Mark demonstrated his passion for bicycle advocacy and helped the organization grow
and maintain its membership. We appreciate the many other successes he helped us achieve.
One in particular is the cadre of dedicated volunteers that worked thousands of hours on mailings,
the yearly auction, and the many other tasks they did with a smile.
We wish Mark the very best in his future endeavors.
We also want to welcome JoAnn Yoshimoto, our Development Director.
A veteran fundraising professional, she has been involved with a wide variety of organizations,
including youth development, healthcare, environment, and cultural institutions since 1977 as donor,
staff, board member, and consultant with The Alford Group. JoAnn is also an avid cycle tourist.
When you stop by please be sure and say hello!
April 2009
Bicycle Alliance at REI Cyclefest
Drop by REI during one of these Cyclefest
events and say Hi! to the Bicycle Alliance of Washington.
We will have an informational table at the following store locations:
Apr 4 : 11am - 2pm Tacoma REI
Apr 11 : 11am - 2pm Alderwood REI
Apr 18 : 11am - 2pm Redmond REI
29 March 2009
Annual Meeting of the Ferry County Rail Trail Partners
The Ferry County Rail Trail Partners is holding its annual meeting :
Sunday, March 29 at 2:30pm
Old Republic Fire Hall
26 Clark Ave, Republic
The Ferry County Rail Trail Partners are working to
preserve a 28-mile rail corridor between San Poil and the Canadian border for the future economic benefit
of Ferry County and create a nonmotorized trail.
28 March 2009
Legislative Update: We're Busy in Olympia! [Updated March 28]
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington has a full plate in Olympia for the 2009 legislative session. Our Legislative & Statewide Issues Committee, our lobbyist, and BAW members are working to advance several bicycle-friendly bills.
However, the dire State fiscal situation this year is having an impact on all legislation. Any hint of a fiscal impact is cause for great concern and can cause otherwise worthwhile legislation to die an early death. The BAW is working to minimize the fiscal impact of all our proposed legislation. We have agreed to some revisions that will allow our legislative initiatives to move forward when fiscal concerns have been raised.
Ongoing vigilance of "our" legislation is needed. As BAW Board President Kristin Kinnamon stated in the recent
Bike Bites E-Newsletter, "We want BAW members to continue to contact their State Representatives and
State Senators and ask them to support our bills."
Below is a summary of key legislation that we are supporting.
Check the Legislation Page
for additional details and updates.
The "HB" and "SB" numbers refer to the House Bill and Senate Bill numbers that pertain to each proposed bill. Click on
the bill number to get the most up-to-date status.
Still alive:
Three Foot Clearance
(HB 1491/SB 5335)
A bill drafted by BAW lobbyist Michael Temple and Brian Faller requires a minimum of three (3) feet of clearance when a vehicle overtakes and passes pedestrians or bicycles. The bill also allows vehicles to cross the center line to pass a bicycle if it is safe to do so.
This legislation received support as an important safety educational tool by the Washington Department of Transportation, the Washington State Patrol, and by other law-enforcement groups.
Status: Passed by the House; referred to Senate Transportation Committee.
Scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Committee on Transportation at 1:30 PM, April 1. (Subject to change)
Safe Routes to School
(HB 1793/SB 5743)
The BAW, Cascade Bicycle Club, Feet First, and several other organizations are members of the Childhood Obesity Prevention Coalition which has been working to advance a "safe routes" bill. This legislation would increase dedicated State funding for Safe Routes to School grants and make other changes to the program.
Progress has been made to move this important legislation forward, however, due to concerns associated with funding and other aspects of the program, legislation will likely not be adopted this session. With all the good ground-work accomplished to date, and with advocacy efforts continuing in the months ahead, this bill will hopefully be able to move to adoption next year. Substantial work "selling" the bill will, however, be required for success.
Status: PASSED on the House Floor March 11: yeas, 83; nays, 13; referred to Senate Transportation Committee.
Scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Committee on Transportation at 1:30 PM, March 31. (Subject to change)
Liz McNett Crowl (far left), BAW board member from Mt Vernon, provided testimony in support of the Safe Routes to School legislation. The bill had a hearing before the House Transportation Committee on February 24.
Dead bills:
Construction Zone Accommodation
(HB 1535)
Ralph Wessels, BAW Legislative Committee and Tacoma Wheelmen Bicycle Club member, drafted legislation to require compliance with existing standards so that people using wheelchairs, bikes, or their feet are considered when construction or maintenance closures & detours are necessary.
Some fiscal objections have been raised to date on this proposed legislation.
Status: Did not make it out of House Transportation Committee.
Traffic Actuated Signals
(HB 1403)
BAW Legislative Committee and Capital Bicycling Club member Brian Faller drafted legislation to require new traffic signals to detect bicycles and motorcycles at vehicle-activated traffic control signals and also requires needed enhancements at existing signals when upgrade construction occurs.
We added "subject to funding" and other revisions, including a system to file complaints about specific signals, to address fiscal impact concerns raised by the Washington Department of Transportation, The Association of Washington Cities, and others. Other than fiscal concerns, no objections have been raised to date on this proposed legislation. We have received substantial support from The Washington Road Riders, a motorcycle group, as well as other organizations such as Cascade Bicycle Club to move this legislation forward.
Status: Passed House Transportation Committee. Didn't make it out of the Rules Committee.
Vulnerable User Law
(SB 5838)
The Cascade Bicycle Club has been working on an important bill related to vehicular assault, SB 5838, which allows for misdemeanor criminal charge in crashes causing serious injury or death when not caused by use of alcohol or drugs. This bill will help fill the gray area that allows police and district attorneys to charge motorists with more than mere traffic fines when they injure or kill cyclists. Washington cyclists are urged to contact their State Senators to support bringing this bill to vote.
Status: Did not make it out of Senate Transportation Committee.
27 March 2009
Board Ballot and New Board Appointment
The latest edition of The Advocate will soon be in your mailbox and it contains a ballot with
a slate of Board candidates. Be sure to return your completed ballot by March 27!
In addition to the Board candidates being voted on, John Whitlow has been appointed to fill the
unexpired term of former Board member Molly Johnson, who recently moved to California. John, a Bainbridge
Island resident, is an architect for Collins Woerman in Seattle and a bike or motorcycle commuter.
He and his wife are active with the West Sound Cycling Club as ride leaders and volunteers.
John is coordinating West Sound's support for RAPSody (Ride Around Puget Sound) this year.
He has served as the chairperson for the Washington State Ferries Community Advisory Group for Winslow.
He became involved with the Bicycle Alliance to promote bike infrastructure, commuting alternatives,
public education and safety. In addition to his service on the Board, John is a member of BAW's new Education Committee.
19 March 2009
Annual Meeting of the Woodland Greenway Trail Association
Celebrate the 2008 accomplishments of the
Woodland Greenway Trail Association
and review plans for 2009!
Thursday, March 19,2009
6:30-8:30 PM
Lacey Community Center in Woodland Creek Park
6729 Pacific Ave SE
Lacey
19 March 2009
Annual Meeting of the Friends of the Burke-Gilman Trail
An evening of Questions and Answers about the Burke Gilman Trail Missing Link
and other alt transportation topics in Seattle with
Grace Crunican, Director of the
Seattle Department of Transportation
Thursday March 19, 2009
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Northwest Senior Center in Ballard
5429 - 32nd Avenue NW
Seattle
This is your chance to ask some of the same old questions and even some new ones.
Let's work to get some real answers and better yet, some action.
10-12 March 2009
National Bike Summit
Bicycle advocates from around the country will converge in Washington DC in March for the
National Bike Summit.
This year's Summit will focus on making a powerful case for expanding federal support for bicycling - for
active transportation and recreation.
The Bicycle Alliance will be at the National Bike Summit to represent you and we are making appointments
with our members in Congress. For more information, contact
Dave Janis at the Bike Alliance or check with the
League of American Bicyclists.
2009
Bicycle Commuter Tax Provision: Update
After 7 long years of work by Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) the Bicycle Commuter Tax Provision finally
passed by being attached as an amendment to HR1425, now Public Law 110-343:
The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (The Bush Administration's Sept 08 Stimulus bill).
It went into effect January 1, 2009.
This provision allows employers to offer a transportation benefit package of $20 a month to bicycle commuters.
(The original bill called for $80 and Blumenauer promises to try to increase the limit to $80 in the future.)
A cyclist may receive $20 for every month in which a bicycle is used for
"the substantial portion of the travel" between their residence and place of employment.
It is a substitute for any transit or parking benefits and may not be combined with them.
If you have a multi-modal commute (bus/bike or train/bike) you currently have to choose
which benefit to receive transit or bicycle. Representatives Blumenauer with encouragement from
the League of American Bicyclists is also hoping to change that in the future.
The $240 annual benefit may ONLY be used for
- the purchase of a bicycle
- bicycle improvements,
- bicycle repair or
- bicycle storage.
This Benefit may be offered by an employer as either a pre-tax exclusion, or as a subsidy.
- If it is offered as a subsidy, the employer pays the full cost.
- If it is offered as an exclusion, the employee pays the full cost,
but the employer deducts it from the employee's gross pay before taxes are taken out, thus saving both the employee and the employer the income tax, SSI and FICA taxes on the exclusion.
All offices from single person offices to multinational corporations are eligible.
Self employed workers are not eligible.
The League of American Bicyclists advocated for this provision,
is advocating for improving it and is tracking the current status of the law.
Keep an eye on their website for more information on
how this new law can benefit you.
Accor Services is a company that provides transit benefit checks for employers.
They have developed a bicycle voucher program which employers can subscribe.
The vouchers are given to the employee as a transportation benefit and are redeemable
at bike shops and bike storage facilities such as Bikestation Seattle.
It is likely that other providers of transportation benefit and pay check handling services will
soon have voucher programs as well.
24 Feb 2009
Transportation Advocacy Day - Olympia
On Transportation Advocacy Day Feb. 24 we meet in Olympia to learn about legislative issues,
meet with your legislators and network with other advocates.
Tuesday February 24
9am - 5pm
Trinity Lutheran Church
2020 Franklin St. SE
Olympia
The Bicycle Alliance has an
ambitious legislative agenda and we'll also be
supporting our partners in pushing for :
- Longterm Funding For Transportation Solutions
- Safe Routes To School
- Transit Oriented Communities
- Reducing Global Warming
- Safety For All
Talking points and details to come. If you are planning on attending you can Register online now.
Carpool, take the train, even bike down for the day (it's been done!).
Liz McNett Crowl (far left), BAW board member from Mt Vernon, provided testimony in support of the Safe Routes to School legislation. The bill had a hearing before the House Transportation Committee on February 24.
Early Feb 2009
BAW Advocates for Legislative Agenda around the State
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington has been talking to elected officials from around the State about
its legislative agenda. BAW Acting Director
Dave Janis and Board Member Eileen Hyatt met recently
with Spokane City Councilmember Richard Rush to explain how our legislation, if passed, would benefit cyclists
at the local level.
We have also provided testimony at recent public hearings in Olympia.
Read more about the bills we are supporting under the
Legislative Issues section of our website.
8 Feb 2009
Bikes on and off Buses in the Ride Free Area!
Great News! Thanks to the work of BAW and other advocates,
King County Metro has finally changed
the restrictive rules about bicycle loading in the ride free area.
Starting February 8th you will be allowed to load and unload
your bicycle in downtown Seattle on surface streets.
The only time bicycle loading/unloading will continue to be
restricted is Monday through Friday (6 - 9am and 3 - 7pm).
At those times, cyclists may load and unload bicycles only at each
particular route's first or last stop in the ride free area.
Bicycles may be loaded and unloaded at all stations of the
Seattle Downtown Transit Tunnel during any hours the tunnel is open.
2 February 2009
Bikestation Changeover Happening Now
Bicycle Alliance of Washington has taken over management of
Bikestation Seattle.
A new cardkey access system will be installed as of
February 2nd. Your current fobs will work until then (9am Feb 2nd).
Current Bikestation members should have received a notification in the mail and a new card access key
(they were mailed Jan 8th).
Read about new service plan options on the Bikestation Page.
Note: in conjunction with this expansion of our services, the Bicycle Alliance offices have moved next door, to
309A 3rd Avenue South. Our mailing address is unchanged.
February 2009
New Board Members, Leaders
Per our bylaws, members of the Bicycle Alliance vote on our board of directors.
Our nominating committee is currently working on a slate of candidates to present for election.
Please watch your mail and email for more information in March.
Meanwhile, the board itself has elected new officers for 2009. Kristin Kinnamon is the new president of the
Bicycle Alliance of Washington. Kristin first joined the board in 2005 and has been chair of the BAW Legislative
and Statewide Issues Committee since that time. She is the past president and an active member of
B.I.K.E.S. Club of Snohomish County. Through her job at Community Transit, Kristin has organized
Snohomish County Bike to Work events since 2001, growing the event from 150 participants the first year to
1,500 in 2008. Kristin been a B.I.K.E.S. representative on the Ride Around Puget Sound organizing committee
since the BAW benefit ride began in 2004. Kristin and her partner live in Marysville with one car, nine bikes and
a well-used bus pass.
Long-time board member Thom Skaanland has joined the BAW Executive Committee as second vice president.
Thom has been on the board since 1998, and has served on the executive committee in the past as secretary.
He is looking forward to focusing on BAW membership expansion and retention. He recently took an early retirement offer from Weyerhaeuser, where he was an environmental compliance manager. Thom and his wife, a nurse, look forward to spending more time on their tandem, and to traveling and providing service through medical mission work. They live in Enumclaw.
Past-president Ralph Wessels, a Tacoma Wheelmen from Gig Harbor, continues to serve on the board and will
work with the BAW executive committee in a mentoring role. King Cushman of Seattle, Eileen Hyatt of Spokane
and Mark Thomas of Redmond all continue their important roles as members of the BAW executive committee.
The new chair of the Legislative and Statewide Issues Committee is Bob Duffy, a longtime BAW volunteer and
new board member in 2008. Bob lives in Lacey where he is a member of Capital Bicycle Club.
He is retired from the Department of Ecology.
28 January 2009
Kirkland: Comment on Active Transportation Plan
Kirkland's next Transportation Commission meeting is Wednesday January 28 at 6:00 in the Council Chambers.
Note that Public comment on the Active Transportation Plan is scheduled for 7:00.
Information about the state of the streets report is available from last Tuesday's
council packet although the item was postponed.
Information about the ferry is available on the PSRC website.
Both the full report
and the executive summary are available there.
A more detailed summary of comments on the Draft Active Transportation Plan will be available on the city website on Monday, but here's a brief list:
- Ped. wayfinding for paths and connections
- Active transportation to school -include other ages
- Bicycle parking should be improved outside of downtown too
- Clear up ambiguity about who is responsible for sidewalk maintenance
- Put more weight on Transit/School less on Park/Commercial
- Better address Seniors and those with limited mobility
- Add connection to the water on bike network; Market Neighborhood
- Add water trail section
- Include Synder's corner park
- Make sure the school district has seen the plan
- Determine how to include Neighborhood Plan bicycle and pedestrian routes
- Draft mark-ups from citizens
- Add 90th Street connection over I-405
This information provided by:
David Godfrey, P.E.
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works Department
(425) 587-3865
DGodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
22 Jan 2009
Come share your ideas for Chambers Lake Park and Trail!
The City of Olympia is holding a workshop to gather public input for the development of a 46-acre property
into the Chambers Lake Park and Loop Trail. This project could include connections to the
Chehalis Western Trail and nearby neighborhoods.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Olympia Christian Reform Church
2121 Log Cabin Road SE
Unable to attend the workshop? You can submit written comments to:
Jonathon Turlove
Associate Planner
Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation
222 Columbia St. NW
Olympia, WA 98501
360.753.8068
jturlove@ci.olympia.wa.us
www.olympiawa.gov/cityservices/par
Background: Here's a map and description from the Regional Trails Plan.
Chamber's Lake Loop Trail - The City of Olympia's Parks, Arts and Recreation Plan (2002) includes a proposed three mile recreational trail around the western shore of Chamber's Lake. By itself, the loop would not be a regionally significant trail, but it could provide large numbers of neighboring residents access to the CWT. For this connection to be effective, a short east-west section of 27th Avenue/Wiggins Road (see Map 6) will require a bicycle or pedestrian facility to provide trail users safe direct access to the loop. The Chamber's Lake Loop Trail would provide CWT users another recreation opportunity in the vicinity of the Chamber's Lake Trailhead. This loop is part of the City's Open Space Network. The City has an easement on the north end of the lake, but additional easements or ROW is required to develop this proposed trail. The actual alignment of this trail has not yet been determined and may vary from what is represented on the map. Part of this trail may course through wetlands and would be developed with low impact trail construction techniques. See Map 6 for a closer view of the proposed trail.
Jan-Mar 2009
Willie Weir at REI to benefit Bicycle Alliance
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is hosting Willie Weir's popular travel presentations
at REI's Seattle flagship store this winter.
Mark Your Calendars!
Thursday, January 8
Colombia & Venezuela:
Bicycling Beyond the Headlines
Thursday, January 22
A Tale of Twos:
Cycling Thailand & Laos
Wednesday, February 4
The Bad Road: Cycling Turkey
Cancelled!
Wednesday, February 25
Cycling Cuba:
So Close & Yet So Far Away
Thursday, March 12
Fear & Hospitality:
Cycling South Africa
Thursday, March 26
I am God: Cycling India
Come out and see Willie's latest show about Colombia & Venezuela or see a presentation you've missed over
the years. Better yet, make a date with your cycling buddies to see the whole series. You'll be inspired to
get out and ride!
All shows at 7pm at the flagship REI store in Seattle. $5
21 Jan 2009
EBAG Invites Bike Alliance to January Meeting
Louise McGrody and Kristin Kinnamon (image, right) of the Bicycle Alliance will be speaking to the
Edmonds Bicycle Advisory Group (EBAG) at their January 21 meeting. She will discuss strategies for
effective bike advocacy at the local and state levels and provide an update on the BAW's efforts.
The Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group is a group of citizens that, for 14 years, has worked with Edmonds
and surrounding communities to promote the safe and enjoyable use of municipal facilities for bicyclists
and pedestrians. EBAG has been instrumental in the creation of bicycle lanes, trails, signage,
bicycle parking, route maps and safety improvements.
The group meets the third Wednesday of
each month at 7:30pm at the Frances Anderson Center, 700 Main Street (next to the library) in Edmonds.
Guests are welcome. For more information: www.edmondsbicyclegroup.org.
15 Jan 2009
Name the Trail: North Spokane Corridor
NEW PEDESTRIAN-BIKE TRAIL NEEDS YOUR HELP TO FIND A NAME
Public input is being sought by the Washington State Department of Transportation for naming the new
pedestrian-bike path being built in conjunction with the new North Spokane Corridor (NSC).
The 10.5 mile NSC will include a parallel pedestrian-bike path along the entire route.
The first section of the trail will open in 2009 from Lincoln Road to Farwell Road.
The second section, continuing north to Wandermere will be opening in 2011.
Future sections will connect neighborhoods to neighborhoods as well as provide connections to
the Centennial and Ben Burr trails and scenic viewpoints of the Spokane area.
After the names are submitted, a committee of local citizens and leaders will review the
entries and choose the trail name.
The NSC facility already captures some of the local flavor in some of the design features
along the route. For example, the Morgan Acres bridges have a "wagon wheel" motif, the bridges
to the north have the "Children of the Sun" motif, the Perry bridge has the "flying and hiking herons"
(requested by Friends of the Little Spokane River) and they all have the basalt finish molded into
the concrete. The Department hopes to have a similar community connection captured with the name of the new trail.
To submit a suggestion for the trail name, go to the North Spokane Corridor website
and click on the Help Name the Trail link.
Please have your suggestion submitted before January 15, 2009.
Contact information for the North Spokane Corridor:
Brittany Pfeifer
WSDOT: Eastern Region
509-324-6511
pfeifeb@wsdot.wa.gov
Jan 2009
Congress Passes Bicycle Commuter Act
When Congress passed the financial bailout plan in October, the Senate added a number of
renewable energy initiatives to the package-including the Bicycle Commuter Benefits Act.
Effective January 1, 2009, the legislation allows employers to offer a financial benefit to
employees who bike to work. Check the League of American Bicyclists website for updated
information.
2010
| 2009
2008
2007
| 2006
| 2005
19 Dec 2008
Help Improve King County Bike Map
Do you use the King County Bicycling Guidemap?
They are seeking your ideas for improvements
to build a better bike map!
Take their online survey through December 19, and let them know what you
think. You can make a difference.
Dec 2008
Comment on the Next President's Energy Plan
You are encouraged to visit the
www.change.gov website and share your opinion with Heather
Zichal, member of the Energy and Environment Policy Team.
11 Dec 2008
Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop Master Plan Final Public Meeting
Seattle Parks and Recreation invites you to a public meeting to learn about the
Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop Master Plan. The purpose of the loop is to enable citizens and visitors to enjoy the unique character and history of the neighborhoods that surround Lake Union and to enjoy a unique recreational experience. The City will adopt a Master Plan to ensure the loop is easily accessible for a variety of pedestrians and recreational cyclists.
Parks will present the final master plan elements for the loop at this meeting. We will take comments on the Master Plan.
We encourage you to come and participate in this public meeting.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
5 - 7:30 p.m.
Brief presentation at at 6 p.m.
South Lake Union Armory
860 Terry Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98109
For more information: David Graves, AICP
Senior Planner, Major Projects & Planning
Seattle Parks and Recreation
800 Maynard Ave. S., 3rd Floor
Seattle, WA 98134-1336
david.graves@seattle.gov 206-684-7048
www.seattle.gov/parks/LakeUnionLoop
19 Nov 2008
Bellevue Bike-Ped Plan Transportation Meeting
Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Plan Planning Commission will hold its final review public hearing on
2008 comprehensive plan amendments, including those related to the
Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Plan
at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at
City Hall, in Room 1E-113.
18 Nov 2008
City of Spokane Master Bike Plan Open House
What: City of Spokane
Master Bike Plan Open House
Where: Salem Lutheran Church
1428 W. Broadway
Spokane, WA 99201 When: Tuesday, November 18 from 6-8pm Who: Anybody interested in the Master Bike Plan
13-14 Nov 2008
Another Successful Safe Routes to School Summit
The Center for Safe Routes to School in Washington State
held its second Statewide Safe Routes to School Summit in Spokane Washington on November 13th.
Forty seven attendees from all across Washington participated. The agenda consisted of 2 tracks, a
training course for beginners and a second which featured information about innovations, mobilizing
parents and administrators and sustaining programs. Success stories included:
- Spokane's school zone flashing beacons.
- Los Angeles, California's road diets on multi-lane roads near schools that resulted in increased walking to school without impeding traffic flow.
- Vancouver, BC's encouragement efforts including Walking Crews (neighborhood walking clubs that encourage participation from all grade levels so that the older children are encouraging the younger children to walk with them). And Car Cootie Day (a no-car day where children are encouraged to ride the bus, walk or bike to school but to avoid the cootie contaminated cars).
- Spokane School District's program teaching children bicycle safety skills and a program designed for the youngest students using scooters because they are too little to bike.
Willie Weir provided an inspirational lunch presentation and the afternoon featured a Safe Routes to School "open mic" that resulted in a lot of brainstorming, funny stories and more inspiration.
The Center's summit partners included the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and
Spokane Regional Health District.
13-14 Nov 2008
Safe Routes to School Summit in Spokane
Safe Routes to School is an international movement to increase the number of students
walking and biking to school safely. Safe Routes programs bring communities together
to increase neighborhood safety, improve air quality, combat childhood obesity, and
take joy in the simple acts of walking and bicycling.
Who should attend?
This conference is for anyone interested in Safe Routes to School:
parents, school staff members, law enforcement officers, public health
professionals, transportation professionals, elected officials, student
activists, and/or Safe Routes to School advocates.
More details, including online registration form at:
www.saferouteswa.org.
12 Nov 2008
City of Kirkland Transportation Commission reviews Bike Plan
The process for updating the non-motorized plan is continuing.
A number of people have commented on the draft material that is posted on the web.
This has resulted in suggestions of how the draft ideas should be changed.
On Wednesday, November 12, from 6:00 - 9:00 in the Council Chambers at City Hall,
the Transportation Commission will be meeting to discuss the draft plan and ideas
for its improvement. Discussion topics will include plan goals, how projects
should be prioritized, items that should be included in the plan and so forth.
This will be a working session for the Commission and there will be opportunities for public comment.
You will receive another email later this week when meeting materials are posted on line.
There will be other opportunities for public review and comment on the draft plan but
if you are interested in the details of how the plan is being put together you will
find this meeting interesting.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
David Godfrey, P.E.
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works
dgodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
(425) 587-3865
4 Nov 2008
Election Recommendations
BAW opposes Initiative 985, Supports Transit Expansion (Sound Transit Prop 1)
Occasionally, the board of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington takes a position on an initiative,
bond issue or other issue. (BAW does not endorse or oppose individual candidate races.)
Last year, the board recommended passage of the Roads and Transit proposal
before voters around Puget Sound: the measure was defeated. For the upcoming election,
the Bicycle Alliance is opposing state-wide Initiative 985. BAW is also endorsing the
expansion of transit service in the Seattle-Tacoma-Everett area proposed in Sound Transit 2 (Sound Transit Prop 1).
I-985 focuses on motor vehicles [NO on I-985]
by Kristin Kinnamon
Chair Statewide and Legislative Committee
While the ballot title states that the measure is intended to "reduce traffic congestion," it focuses solely on motor vehicles as the means to do so. By requiring a certain amount of state and local money be spent on "congestion relief" measures aimed solely at cars, I-985 puts at risk funding for non-motorized and transit projects. It sets out a "one size fits all" solution to traffic problems across the state, limiting local control and decision-making.
For instance, cities and counties would be required to synchronize traffic signals on arterials. That sounds good in theory, but there may be local reasons why lights are not timed to move cars quickly. It may be a community goal that cars move at safe speeds through neighborhoods. Preference may be given to pedestrian or transit traffic. Or a jurisdiction may simply not have the money to spend on an expensive traffic light management system, and set priorities in other areas.
Other items identified to "reduce congestion" are opening all HOV lanes at off-peak hours (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and having emergency response vehicles ready to respond to accidents on the freeway.
The initiative would require that 15% of vehicle sales taxes,100% of red light camera fines and all excess road tolls (not needed to pay for the bridge/project itself) go towards these defined "congestion relief" measures, in addition for paying the state auditor to monitor them.
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington supports balanced solutions to improve our transportation system, and developing a system for the future that gives people a choice of convenient, safe and environmentally-friendly modes for getting around.
This initiative puts transportation choices at risk by focusing funding and attention in very limited areas. Congestion relief must focus on moving people, not just cars. A balanced approach would include HOV and pedestrian improvements, bicycle facilities, commuter parking (for cars and bikes) and other support for transit and flexible funding to achieve these goals.
BAW backs expansion of mass transit [YES on Sound Transit Prop. 1]
by King Cushman
First Vice President
On September 26th the Board of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington voted overwhelmingly to support Sound Transit's Proposition 1 on the November 4th ballot, the proposal for major mass transit expansion in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties.
While the ballot does contain a few explicit bicycle related projects such as adding more bike storage at stations and improving bicycle access to transit facilities, a key rationale for the board's support was the unique long-range opportunity the ballot offers to help create more pedestrian-bicycle friendly development and reduce auto-dependency throughout much of Sound Transit's three-county service area.
The ballot measure provides positive environmental benefits through direct support of adopted local and regional growth management plans that call for major investments in mass transit capital facilities and service expansion - bus and rail - in over a couple dozen community and regional centers. Reduced auto dependency and greatly increased every day travel by pedestrians and bicycles has resulted in many North American and European cities that have increased development densities with supportive transit service expansion.
Sound Transit has also just created a Bicycle Advisory Committee that includes representation from the BAW and it is our intent to work with Sound Transit and this committee to assure that all Sound Transit's facilities and services adequately provide improved bicycle access and bike accommodation.
24 Oct 2008
Comment on Eastside Transit and HOV Project (SR520) Plan
Washington Department of Transportation is
inviting comments on the Eastside
Transit and HOV Project, which will be the first phase of the
improvements on SR 520 to be completed (prior to the building of a new
Lake Washington bridge).
Tell them that continuous, signed bicycle routes that connect regional routes are
essential to this project. Public comments are due Oct 24th.
Project details and contact information:
www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/SR520Bridge.
18 Oct 2008
Hurricane Ridge Road Reopens to Bicyclists
After being closed to bicyclists since spring, the Hurricane Ridge Road inside Olympic National Park is now
again open to riders, park officials have announced. The 17-mile route from just south of Port Angeles to
the visitor center at the top was closed to bicyclists during construction. The Bicycle Alliance protested
the closure decision and requested that the road be opened during certain summer weekends but was not successful in changing the minds of park officials. However, park officials and a federal agency did work with the contractor to get the repaving, shoulder work and guardrail installations complete in one instead of two years.
The near mile gain in elevation from the park entrance to the Hurricane Ridge Visitors' Center
makes the 17-mile up climb a popular outing for conditioned cyclists. The road reopened to bikes
October 18 and will be open daily to all traffic through Thanksgiving, depending on the weather.
During winter the road is plowed Friday through Sunday only. Bicyclists pay a $5 individual
admission charge to enter the park.
To celebrate the reopening to cyclists a group of riders from the
Port Townsend Bicycle Association
conquered the hill on October 19.
Picture shows (left to right) Lee Johnson, Jane Whicher, Mary Toews, Jon Muellner and David McCulloch.
18 Oct 2008
Auction garners applause, support for BAW
The Bicycle Alliance's 16th annual gala dinner and auction brought a sold-out crowd to the Fisher Pavilion at
Seattle Center October 18. Auctioneer Eric Mamroth was joined by Master of Ceremonies Willie Weir in creating
an energy that resulted in spirited bidding on everything from huckleberry pie to a Davidson hand-built frame;
from a taco party to an African safari trip. Attendees put aside news of economic woes to show their support
for state-wide bicycle advocacy.
BAW president Ralph Wessels and Vice-president Kristin Kinnamon started the evening off with a summary
of the hard-won successes of the alliance and upcoming legislative goals (see Legislative Issues).
Acknowledging the recent award by the League of American Bicyclists to the State of Washington for being the
top-rated state in the nation, Wessels commented: "Is the water-bottle half-full or half-empty?."
From provisional figures, it looked like the auction garnered more than $70,000 for the BAW, slightly down
from the 2007 figure but a great success given recent stock market falls.
"Given that many people's retirement accounts and mutual funds have fallen more than 35% in the past
few months, I think the auction was a tremendous success," said BAW executive director Gordon Black.
"More especially, all the people I have spoken to said that they had a great time. Helping making everything
run smoothly was a fabulous crew of volunteers and staff members. Naturally, we also owe a big
thanks to our sponsors and those who donated items."
BAW has reserved the same space for the 2009 gala dinner and auction - set for October 24, 2009.
Auctioneer Eric Mamroth has been invited to again rally the bids.
15 Oct 2008
Interurban Trail Ribbon Cutting - Mountlake Terrace
From the City of Mountlake Terrace:
Please join us for the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting
for the completion of the last section of the Interurban Trail in
Mountlake Terrace.
Interurban Trail Ribbon Cutting
Wednesday, October 15, 2008, 3:00 pm
Trail Crossing at 226th Pl SW & 72nd Ave W
The Interurban Trail can provide future linkage for
bicyclists and pedestrians to the Mountlake Terrace
Transit Center and the revitalizing Town Center.
On street parking is available on 226th Place. See map.
For more information, contact Penny Merkley at 425-744-6203 or
pmerkley@ci.mlt.wa.us
15 Oct 2008
Burke-Gilman Trail "Missing Link" Open House
From the City of Seattle Department of Transportation:
You're invited! Please join us for an Open house to learn about the latest developments with the
"Missing Link" project through Ballard. The design for this
Burke-Gilman Trail project is now 90 percent
complete for the first segment, from 11th Ave. NW to 17th Ave. NW, and 60 percent complete for the
segment running from 17th to the Ballard Locks.
Details will be presented at the Open House Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at:
Adams Elementary School
6110 28th Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Questions? Contact Project Manager Kirk T. Jones at kirkt.jones@seattle.gov or at 206-615-0862.
Thank you all for your patience and support as we continue building the Burke-Gilman Trail!
30 Sept - 2 Oct 2008
Volunteers Needed for Bike Counts around Washington State
WSDOT and the
Cascade Bicycle Club are enlisting the
support of volunteers and other organizations, like FeetFirst and the Bicycle Alliance of Washington,
to benchmark the numbers of people bicycling and walking on paths, bike lanes, sidewalks, and other
facilities across the state on September 30th, October 1st, and October 2nd, 2008.
The information will be used to establish benchmarks and track progress toward the state's goal of encouraging
people to get out of their cars.
Counts will be assembled from all over Washington State, but we are focusing on several cities including:
Bellevue, Bellingham, Bothell, Bremerton, Ellensburg, Everett, Kent, Kirkland, Longview, Olympia, Richland,
Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Walla Walla, Wenatchee and Yakima.
To get involved and count bicyclists and pedestrians on paths, sidewalks, bike lanes, and other facilities
in your community, contact Cascade Bicycle Club via email at
organizer@cascadebicycleclub.org or
call them at: 206-957-0689.
Sept 2008
Comment on Update of Kirkland's Non-Motorized Plan
New information has been posted regarding the update of Kirkland's non-motorized plan.
Please take a moment to
visit the website and review the bicycling and walking project maps,
project descriptions and the other information that is posted there.
These project lists are a draft of what the Transportation Commission is planning to include in the new plan.
We need your ideas/comments and thoughts on questions such as:
-
Are these the right projects?
- What important pieces have we left off?
- Do you agree with the
prioritization techniques?
Thanks for taking the time to improve the plan!
For the Transportation Commission,
David Godfrey, P.E.
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works
dgodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
(425) 587-3865
27-28 Sept 2008
Promote Bicycling at Sustainable Ballard Festival - Volunteers Needed!
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is a sponsor of this year's
Sustainable Ballard Festival on September 27 and 28 at
the Ballard Commons Park (intersection of 22nd Ave NW and NW 57th Stin Downtown Ballard) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
We need volunteers to take 3 hour shifts and would like 2 at the table at a time to answer questions
and give out brochures. The table will be in a tent so you don't have to be concerned about the weather.
If you are interested or have questions, please contact Dave Janis at 206.224.9252 Ext. 302,
or davej@bicyclealliance.org.
Shift Schedule (2 volunteers needed each day):
Saturday Sept 27:
11am - 2pm
2pm - 5pm
Sunday Sept 28:
11am - 2pm
2pm - 5pm
Sustainable Ballard is holding its 5th annual festival that is expected
to draw up to 7,500 participants that will experience a grand array of
resource-conserving demonstrations, information tables, hands-on
activities, entertainment, and discussion provided by 60 businesses and
organization. More info at:
sustainableballard.org
24 Sept 2008
Scooters in the Bike Lane - Willie Weir speaks in Spokane
Globe-trotting cyclist and author
Willie Weir, who has pedaled his
way through India, Turkey, Thailand, Bosnia and other parts of the
world, is coming to Spokane September 24. Weir, whose blend of
anecdotes, observations and photographs captures the essence of a
country, is staging a benefit show for the Bicycle Alliance as part of its
campaign to open an office in Eastern Washington.
7pm on September 24
South Campus Facility (next to The Bookie)
Riverpoint Campus
410 Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane
Tickets are $10 in advance (or $12 at the door) from
North Division Bicycle Shop,
10503 N. Division St in Spokane, 509-467-2453; or by contacting the Bicycle Alliance:
bikeinfo@bicyclealliance.org or 206.224.9252.
22 Sept 2008
Bike Loading in All Seattle Tunnel Stations Begins Sept. 22
Because of the increased demand for linking bicycles and transit,
King County Metro
is opening all stations of the Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel to bicycle loading and unloading for a
demonstration project, effective Monday, Sept. 22.
Cyclists may use elevators or stairs in the tunnel stations to transport their bicycles, but they are not
allowed to use the escalators. While waiting for your bus, please stand at the head of the bus bay
behind the yellow textured strip until the bus comes to a complete stop.
NOTE: Because changes to the bicycle loading policy were not completed before the September 2008
timetables were printed, the timetables still say that loading and unloading bicycles is allowed
at only Convention Place and International District stations.
For more information, you can download the
"Bicycle Loading in the Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel"
brochure [.pdf 39 kb]. Alternative formats are available by calling 206-684-2046 (TTY Relay: 711).
17 Sept 2008
Volunteers Needed for Bike Count in Seattle
Seattle is conducting a city wide bicycle count - Wednesday, September 17, 2008,
6:30 AM - 9:00 AM.
There are 25 locations where they will be conducting counts.
If you are willing to help, please call or email:
Gina Coffman: 206 684-3902, virginia.coffman@seattle.gov; or
Peter Lagerwey: 206 684-5108, pete.lagerwey@seattle.gov
All volunteers will receive a packet with full instructions and counting forms.
Results will be used to monitor progress toward increasing the number of bicycle trips as called for
in the Seattle Bicycle Master Plan.
Thank you in advance!
11 Sept 2008
Commuter Connection opens in Bellevue
After working closely with the
City of Bellevue over the last several
months, the city's new bicycle parking facility
Commuter Connection,
opened officially on Sept 11th.
Designed with the help of the Bicycle Alliance, and sponsors
King County Metro,
Sound Transit, and
TransManage,
the facility has 27 bike parking spaces, as well as a shop stand, basic tools, and floor pump, for bicyclists to use.
Our Commute Specialist,
Every Day,
will be on staff Wednesdays from 9am to Noon, to provide commuter tips, emergency
repairs and moral support to new riders and parkers. The spaces are leased for $45 per six months, plus key and lock deposits.
For rental information, contact 206-224-9252 x 304, or
locker@bicyclealliance.org.
Bikes get safe place to spend day - Seattle Times article on the Grand Opening.
Sept 2008
Updated Pierce County Bike Maps Available online
The new bike map that came out in May of this year is now
available online on the
Pierce County Bikemap website.
Please note that sections of the bike map have been updated to include new bikeways, corrections, and other feedback.
The sections of the bike map that have been updated are dated "August 2008" in their respective PDF copies.
Pierce County will continue to update the online bike map on a periodic basis so be sure to check the web page regularly.
August-September 2008
Construction: Burke-Gilman Trail Detour in Kenmore
The Burke-Gilman Trail has been detoured from west of 65th Ave. NE (across from Sherwin-Williams) to east of 65th Ave. NE. (across from QQ Bistro). Signage has been posted to alert trail users of the detour and to help guide them onto the temporary paths to and from NE 175th St. Trail users should be aware that large trucks operate in this area and should carefully and alertly enter and exit the NE 175th St. roadway.
The trail detour will remain in place while crews realign 65th Ave. NE. The current 65th Ave. NE roadway on the south side of SR 522 will be shifted east to align with 65th Ave. NE. on the north side of SR 522. Crews will also be grading, landscaping and undergrounding utilities in a joint utility trench in the area.
More information, including detour routes and maps, available at
www.kenmoresr522.com.
7 September 2008
Spokefest - Sept 7, 2008, Riverfront Park - Spokane
Spokefest,
a project of the Spokane Bicycle Advisory Board, is a celebration of cycling!
This event features a one-mile fun ride for kids and a 21-mile river loop.
Finish line includes music, cycling expo and health fair.
Volunteers are also needed for this event.
To register, volunteer, or to learn more about Spokefest,
go to: www.spokefest.org
Bike Swap at Spokefest
Looking for a bargain on cycling gear, components or accessories?
Check out the Bike Swap at Spokefest on September 7.
Organized by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington, the swap will run from 9:30am to 1pm.
Come early for the best selection!
A limited amount of table space is available to individuals, cycling clubs and bike groups that want to
participate in the Bike Swap. A half table space is $15 and full table is $25.
To secure a spot for your club or yourself, contact Louise McGrody at 206.224.9252 ext. 303 or via
email at louisemc@bicyclealliance.org.
Sept 2008
Lynnwood Needs Show of Support for New Bike Lanes
The City of Lynnwood
intends to re-stripe several arterial streets and
add bike lanes this fall. The city has received grants to cover the cost
of the re-striping and notified area residents and businesses about the
plans, which involves the loss of on-street parking.
However,
last-minute opposition to the plans has emerged and there is an attempt
to prevent the project from proceeding. Final city council decisions on
the re-striping are coming up. It's important to show your support for
these bike-lane improvements by turning up at two upcoming city council
meetings and testifying. You can also
contact Lynnwood city council members and
let them know your position:
Where: Lynnwood City Hall
Map
19100 44th Ave W., Lynnwood
When: September 3, 7pm - first hearing
September 8, 7pm - final decision
2-5 September 2008
PRO WALK/PRO BIKE 08: 2-5 September 2008 Seattle
Transforming Communities - PRO WALK/PRO BIKE 08: 2-5 September 2008 Seattle
Hundreds of people dedicated to achieving more active walkable and bikable communities are coming to
Seattle the week after Labor Day to see and hear about the great progress the Puget Sound region
has made creating healthier active communities.
Join bicycle, pedestrian, active living and climate change
advocates, elected and appointed officials, bike/ped specialists, transportation experts,
land-use planners, safe routes to school coordinators, public health practitioners, and many more
who want to make our cities and communities more walkable and bicycle-friendly places.
The 15th biennial Pro Walk/Pro Bike Conference
is coming to the Pacific Northwest September 2-5, 2008.
The Westin Seattle Hotel will be the headquarters for the event, but there will be ample opportunities
to get out and see first-hand examples of great facilities and programs that are making Seattle and the
Puget Sound a model city and region for the role of bicycling and walking in 21st century communities.
To learn more about this dynamic and comprehensive conference, visit
the National Center for Biking and Walking website.
Conference registration is on-line now and you can save $50-100 if you register by August 1st, so don't miss out!
7 August 2008
Mukilteo Bike-Ped Plan Meeting
Mukilteo is currently working on a draft Bicycle, Pedestrian and Trails Plan, which is intended to detail
future proposed pedestrian and bicycle trails and paths. The plan will serve as the guiding document
for future trail development within the City and for creating connectivity to trail systems outside the City limits.
The plan will establish locations and standards for trail construction.
Interested parties are invited to attend and offer testimony at the Parks and Arts Commission Public Hearing
- 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 7
- City Hall in the Council Chambers
- 4480 Chennault Beach Rd., Mukilteo
You can
view the draft plan and maps online.
For more information about the plan or to submit comments, contact
Assistant Planner Jamie Theuer at (425) 355-4141 ext. 300 or
jtheuer@ci.mukilteo.wa.us.
2 August 2008
Irreverent Tour de Fat draws crowd to Seattle park
Tour de Fat, New Belgium's traveling vaudeville show promoting bicycling and
sustainability proved a big hit at Gasworks Park in Seattle August 2.
With the emphasis on fun, New Belgium's master of ceremony, the
self-styled Rev Ballyhoo (aka Chris Winn) revved a show high on drama
and low on seriousness as he preached riding bikes, driving less and not
owning a car.
Spicing up the day-long celebration were bands, a parade
and bike ride, and performance, including a campy all-women dance act
named The Sprockettes, whose members combined synchronized movements on
small-wheeled bikes and baton-twirling to hoots from the crowd. About
200 people participated in the parade - many dressed in costumes -
westward on the Burke-Gilman Trail: some rode all the way to its end at
Golden Gardens on the shores of Puget Sound.
Sales from beer at the
event raised over $7000 for the advocacy programs at the Bicycle Alliance of
Washington.
Bike Works was the co-beneficiary of the event and raised
money from sales of t-shirts, caps, and other cool schwag.
View more photos of the fun at Jeff Whitton's Photo Album on Flickr.
July-August 2008
North Creek Trail in Bothell closed under highway 522 for a month
WSDOT issued the following notice July 25th (several days AFTER the closure):
The North Creek Trail is closed for approximately 30 days from just north of SR 522 on the UW college campus to
immediately south of the SR 522 overpass where it meets with the Sammamish River Trail.
The closure is necessary because active construction equipment and falling steel debris could pose a safety
risk for trail users at that location as crews begin work to widen SR 522 bridges near the
UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College Campuses.
We have posted detour maps at major trail entrances near the work zone. There are also
detour signs directing bicyclists and pedestrians to use 102nd Avenue NE to Beardslee Boulevard in Bothell.
This work is part of the SR 522 UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College South Campus Access project .
Find more info about this project at the
WSDOT website.
July-August 2008
I-90 trail narrowed between Bellevue and Mercer Island
WSDOT issued the following notice July 25th:
The section of the I-90 trail which spans the East Channel Bridge, between Bellevue and Mercer Island,
has been narrowed in preparation for demolishing the existing barrier and replacing it with a new barrier
and lighting. The new lighting will give trail users greater visibility at night and early mornings.
The original construction plan called for 30 minute closures during construction but we felt that
narrowing the path would better serve the growing number of cyclists and pedestrians that use the
path each day. We hope to restore the path to its original configuration by mid-August.
This work is part of the WSDOT and Sound Transit I-90 Two Way and HOV Operations project.
Find more info about this project at the
WSDOT website.
28 July 2008
Introductory Membership Offer in Pierce County
Nine bike stores in Pierce County and one in Federal Way are offering free Bicycle Alliance of Washington
memberships when a new bike is purchased. The offer is good for anyone buying a new bike who has not previously
been a member of the BAW. (Sorry, doesn't apply to lapsed or those who are currently members.)
If you are already a member, pass on the news to friends you ride with and tell them that they too can add their
voice to the chorus of bicycle advocates working to improve cycling conditions in Washington State.
New bike buyers should ask for a membership packet from the sales person at any of the following stores which have
partnered for this promotion:
- Bike Tech in Lakewood, Puyallup, and Tacoma
- Black Diamond Bike & Backcountry in Black Diamond
- Bonney Lake Bicycle Shop of Sumner in Sumner
- Old Town Bicycle in Gig Harbor and Tacoma
- Phil's South Side Cyclery in Federal Way
- Spoke & Sprocket in University Place
- Trailside Cyclery in Orting
1 Aug 2008
Tell King County to go ahead with Burke-Gilman Trail Improvements
King County Facilities Management Division issued the
Burke-Gilman Trail Redevelopment
Project Final Environmental Impact Statement on July 2, 2008. The proposed changes apply to the Burke-Gilman Trail through
Lake Forest Park,
between NE 145th Street and Log Boom Park.
Tell the County you want them to
implement the proposed improvements to the trail which would widen the trail, improve traffic controls, increase sight
distances, and generally bring the trail up to standards. Comments are due August 1st.
Find more information about the Burke-Gilman Trail at the King County Parks website.
15 July 2008
Cooper's Corner opens in Tri-Cities
The Tri-Cities recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of
Cooper's Corner
in the Columbia Center Mall. Cooper's Corner is an educational interactive bicycle and pedestrian safety
exhibit for children. The exhibit will be managed by the
Kennewick Police Department and staffed by volunteers.
Cooper's Corner is a joint project of the
Benton Franklin Traffic Safety Task Force,
Benton Franklin Safe Kids Coalition, and the
Washington Traffic Safety Commission.
This is the second such facility to be built in Washington State.
The first Cooper's Corner resides in Spokane and is named in honor of Cooper Jones,
a young Spokane cyclist who was hit and killed by a motorist during a sanctioned road race.
June-July 2008
Eastside (BNSF) Rail Corridor Open Houses
The Port of Seattle is holding several informational open houses on the Eastside Rail Corridor.
The Port recently acquired a 42-mile rail corridor from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad,
extending from the community of Snohomish and traveling south through Eastside cities to Renton.
The Bicycle Alliance has long advocated for a trail in this corridor when it became available and
we believe that rail with trail dual use is possible and appropriate. A corridor trail could make
connections to the Centennial Trail, Burke-Gilman and Sammamish River Trails, the I-90 Trail,
and numerous regional bike routes.
Please attend an open house to learn more about this project and voice your support for including a
trail in the corridor.
Wednesday, June 25, 7 - 9 pm
Newport High School Commons
4333 Factoria Blvd SE in Bellevue
Wednesday, July 9, 7 - 9 pm
Kirkland City Hall, Peter Kirk Room
123 Fifth Ave in Kirkland
Thursday, July 10, 7 - 9 pm
Kennydale Elementary School Cafeteria
1700 NE 28th in Renton
28 June 2008
Kenmore Burke-Gilman Trail Re-opening and Ground-breaking
Join the City of Kenmore as we celebrate the grand re-opening of the
Burke-Gilman Trail and break ground on the next phase of SR 522
construction.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
10:30 to Noon
Kenmore Community Club
7304 NE 175th St.
Bring your bikes, strollers and walking shoes to try out the new 73rd
Ave. NE underpass.
Activities also include decorating bikes at the City of Kenmore booth
and getting a bike tune-up from an REI mechanic.
Light refreshments will be provided.
A special thank you to participating organizations:
- Bothell Ski & Bike
- Cascade Bicycle Club
- Kenmore Community Club
- King County Parks
- REI
- Safeway
- Starbucks
- Washington Health Foundation
For more information, view the event poster or visit the
project Web site: www.KenmoreSR522.com,
or contact 425-361-6300 or info@KenmoreSR522.com.
2 June 2008
Pierce County Bike Maps Available Again!
An updated version of the Pierce County bike map is now available. To
find out where you can pick up a copy of the map, go to:
Pierce County website
June 2008
Comment on Tukwila's Walk & Roll Plan!
Attention Tukwila Walk & Rollers:
The City of Tukwila's
Draft Walk & Roll Plan
is online and ready for
your review! In the coming weeks, the Draft Walk & Roll Plan will be
under review by the public, to include a public hearing before the
Tukwila City Council. Prior to City Council adoption of the plan, we
would like your input for changes to the Draft Walk & Roll Plan to make
it a better guide for use in figuring out how and where new pedestrian
and bicycle facilities should be built. Please submit your comments by
email or in writing by June 9, 2008.
The Draft Walk & Roll Plan can be accessed on the City of Tukwila
website by clicking on the following link:
www.ci.tukwila.wa.us/dcd/walkandroll.html
21 May 2008
Give Your Car the Summer Off!
Press Conference to kick-off Give Your Car the Summer Off
When: Wednesday, May 21st
Time: 10:00am to 11:00am
Location: 2119 Rainier Avenue South (Corner of Rainier, Hill and 23rd Ave)
We're trying to get bicyclists to attend, so ride on down!
16 May 2008
Pedal Power Q&A
Along with Cascade Bicyle Club's Chris Cameron, BAW Commute Director Every Day answers questions from prospective bike commuters
on a live chat
(Noon May 16th) sponsored by the
Seattle Times.
Missed it? You can read the
Questions and Answers
archived on the Seattle Times website.
16 May 2008
Bike to Work Spokane a Huge Success!
For the first time since 1992, there has been a Bike to Work event in
Spokane. The Bicycle Alliance of Washington and the Spokane Bicycle
Advisory Board partnered to put on Bike to Work Spokane, May 12-16.
Over 800 cyclists registered to participate in this week long
celebration of bicycling. Mayor Mary Verner biked to work and joined
celebrants at the kick-off rally in Riverfront Park. Go to
www.biketoworkspokane.org
for additional details.
8 May 2008
Washington State looking for new Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator
WSDOT is seeking a talented senior-level planner or designer to assume a leadership role as the State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator.
Job Description, application details at
WSDOT website.
12 May 2008
Port agrees to buy rail line - trail is part of plan
Port of Seattle commissioners voted May 12 to purchase the 42-mile BNSF rail corridor in King County.
With that vote and an earlier vote by King County Council members, the future of the rail corridor as a
public asset is assured. That's good news for trail advocates, including BAW members who have actively
campaigned to convert the abandoned line into a trail.
The agreement involving the port and county is to explore dual use - trail and rail over 32 miles of
the route: the remainder - between Woodinville and Snohomish - will be retained for freight rail service.
The Port of Seattle is using its tax levy funds to pay the railroad $107 Million. King County is
paying $2 million for a trail easement.
The port is planning a public hearing on the future of the trail - likely to take place in June.
A study to examine the feasibility of passenger rail service in the corridor is to be completed by
Puget Sound Regional Council and Sound Transit by the end of this year. The purchase also has to
obtain approval by the US Surface Transportation Board to qualify the line for rail-banking.
This allows an interim trail to be built pending a potential future rail use.
King County Council and the port are expected to reach agreement on trail plans for the route in the
fall of 2009. Watch the BAW web site for news of upcoming public hearings and meetings as the port
and county make decisions on the future of the route.
More details in articles in the
Seattle Times
and Seattle P-I.
May 2008
Bike to Work & School Events around the State
May 16th is Bike to Work Day, and there many Bike to Work events scheduled throughout the month of
May, particularly the week of May 12 - 16. See the list below for links to events around the state:
-
Snohomish County Bike to Work & School
-
Thurston County: 21st Annual Bicycle Commuter Contest
-
Whatcom County's Everybody Bike
-
Bike to Work Spokane
-
King County Bike to Work Month
-
Tacoma/Pierce County Bike to Work
-
Tri-Cities Commute Challenge
12-16 May 2008
Spokane Bike-to-Work Events
Spokane is launching its first Bike-to-Work promotion with a week-long event May 12 - 16 that
includes clinics and kick-off breakfast attended by local politicians and the media.
Contact: Barb Chamberlain - www.biketoworkspokane.org
10 May 2008
Burke Gilman Trail Extension Opens - Seattle
Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels will cut a ribbon to mark the completion of a western extension of the
Burke-Gilman Trail in the Golden Gardens neighborhood of Seattle May 10.
The ceremony will take place at the corner Seaview Ave NW and Seaview Pl NW
(across the street from Golden Gardens Park) at 10am.
Golden Gardens is a park on the shoreline of Puget Sound.
5 May 2008
Testify at King County meeting for Eastside Rail-Trail Route
Update: KC Council votes for rail-trail
On May 5th, the King County Council voted to pass a ordinance binding them to an agreement that will have the
Port of Seattle purchase
the line from BNSF Railway. The Port has still to vote on the decision.
Read more about it in this
Seattle P-I article
and this Seattle Times editorial.
A key decision on the future use of the abandoned BNSF rail route along the eastern side of Lake Washington
will be made by the
King County Council
on Monday, May 5th.
A committee comprised of the entire council will take public testimony at 9:30am on a proposed
ordinance that the county must approve to meet the Port of Seattle's intended acquisition of the
corridor from the railroad.
The Bicycle Alliance supports dual use of the corridor - for a trail and possible future rail service.
If you can, plan on turning up and let the council know you support their position of dual use.
If you wish to testify, here are some key points to make:
-
The corridor is a vital asset that must be preserved through public ownership.
- Interim use as a trail is consistent with federal rail-banking laws that preserve rail
corridors for future rail use.
- A trail can be built in a relatively short time-span - bringing immediate public benefit for
the invested public dollars.
- The corridor with a trail offers a unique chance to create a car-free route in a growing suburban
area with thousands of bicycle riders.
- Rail-trails attract daily bicycle commuters -not just recreational riders.
- The county's proposed easement agreement enables work to begin immediately on funding and
construction of an interim trail while not precluding future rail use.
The committee of the whole council meets in the county chambers:
9:30am, Monday May 5th
King County Courthouse building, 10th floor
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA
If you can't make it to the 9:30am meeting but the committee approves the ordinance,
it will then be heard by the council at its 1:30pm meeting, that same day.
Public testimony will also be heard then.
If you are unable to attend the meeting you can still have an impact by
contacting your County Council Member
to urge his or her support on the ordinance. You can find a map showing the
Council districts and contact information at the
King County Council website.
Background: The Eastside rail corridor spans 42 miles parallel to I-405 from Renton to Snohomish and Woodinville, providing a regional connection through two counties and seven cities. The corridor was offered for sale by BNSF in 2004. Last November, the County and Port of Seattle reached a preliminary agreement that allows the Port to acquire the right-of-way with King County operating a regional trail along the corridor.
26 April 2008
Green My Ride - Alternative Transportation Fair - Seattle
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Phinney Neighborhood Center
6532 Phinney Ave. N.
www.greenmyride.info
GREEN MY RIDE event with live music from the Hayburners, Loose Digits, and more!
Check out this fun and FREE alternative transportation fair and learn about biking,
busing, walking and alternatively fueled vehicles. Bike and bike gear swap!
April 22, 24, 29 2008
Spokane Sets Three Open Houses to Get Input on Master Bike Plan
Citizens are invited to three open houses in April to provide input as the City of Spokane updates its
Master Bike Plan. The update includes identifying ways to make Spokane more bicycle friendly,
improving bike routes, signage, and other elements.
"We haven't updated the City's bicycle plan in any significant way for 20 years," says Ken Pelton, a City
planner who is working on this project. "As a City, we want to encourage alternative modes of transportation, so making it easier for cyclists to get around just makes sense."
The open houses will be held on:
-
Tuesday, April 22, from 6 to 8 p.m.
at the Southside Senior Activity Center,
3151 E. 27th Ave.
-
Thursday, April 24, from 7 to 9 p.m.
at the West Central Community Center,
1603 N. Belt
-
Tuesday, April 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.
at the Northeast Community Center,
4001 N. Cook
At the sessions, citizens will find information about the planning process, maps of different
aspects of the plan, and the opportunity to make comments and suggestions and ask questions.
During the open house on April 24 at West Central Community Center, the Washington State Department of
Transportation also will hold a public hearing on the 2008-2027 Washington State Bicycle Facilities and
Pedestrian Walkways Plan.
The City's Master Bike Plan is part of the transportation section of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
The City's Planning Services and Engineering Services departments-along with the Bicycle Advisory Board-have
been working on the bike plan update.
To date, their work has included creating an inventory of existing bike lanes, routes, signage, and other
facilities. They have also reviewed bicycle planning ideas from other communities to get ideas for Spokane.
This work was anticipated with the adoption of the City's current Comprehensive Plan in 2001, which stated
the City should "undertake additional planning for non-motorized travel to address more specifically the needs of bicyclists and pedestrians." The latest update to the Comp Plan in 2007 specifically added the
statement, "Future planning should include an integrated Bicycle Master Plan that defines the goals and design elements for bicycling facilities in the City."
The City first adopted its "Bike Routes Plan" in 1978. A number of updates to this plan were developed
and adopted in the 1980s and early 1990s.
Citizens who are unable to attend one of the open houses can contact Pelton or Joel Soden, project planner,
by calling 625-6300. Information on the bike plan effort also will be available soon at
www.spokaneplanning.org.
For more information on the Washington State Bicycle Facilities and Pedestrian Walkways plan, contact
Paul Reeves at WSDOT, 310 Maple Park Ave SE, Olympia, WA, 98504 or by email at reevesp@wsdot.wa.gov.
The web site is www.wsdot.wa.gov/bike/bike_plan.htm.
14 April 2008
Welcome Our New Commute Director: Every Day
Every Day started as the Bicycle Alliance of Washington's new Commute Director April 14th.
Every moved up to the Seattle area from Portland
last year. She has worked in transportation-based non-profit organizations and has been
an avid bicycle commuter since coming to the Northwest in 2001.
Feel free to stop by and introduce yourself.
April 2008
Tell Olympic National Park NOT to ban bicyclists!
Hurricane Ridge Road inside Olympic National Park is a popular summer destination for bicyclists who like
the challenge of a 17-mile road rising from virtually sea level to 5420-feet. Park managers have been planning
to repave the road for several years and Congress has provided $12.7 Million to repave and repair 12 miles.
The road recently sustained storm damage.
Citing "safety," the park is
planning to ban bicyclists for the entire two year duration of the road repairs. The road will remain open to all other vehicle traffic, including motorcycles.
We believe that this is an unnecessary exclusion of bicyclists on what is a federally funded road open to all
other forms of traffic.
Write to your members of Congress and interim park superintendent
Sue McGill and let them know that the proposed ban
is totally unacceptable [contact info listed below]. Request that McGill meet directly with the Bicycle Alliance and other bicycle
groups to reach an improved solution.
Key points to raise:
- Hurricane Ridge Road is a popular destination for bicyclists
- Bicyclists who ride this road tend to be very experienced, fit riders
- The road will remain open to all other vehicle traffic
- State, county and city governments in Washington manage to accommodate bicyclists during reconstruction projects without any problems
- No construction work will take place at weekends, but the ban is to remain in place then too
- Olympic National Park did not contact a single bicycle group in its out-reach efforts, even though bicyclists are the most affected users
- Contractors routinely deal with bicyclists on other road projects - this project is no more a safety issue than other road works.
Washington's two senators can be reached by email or by calling a local office:
Find your member of Congress
Olympic National Park
Sue McGill, Superintendent
Olympic National Park
600 E. Park Avenue
Port Angeles, WA 98362
sue_mcgill@nps.gov
Background on the issue is available in this
Peninsula Daily News Article
Take action today!
19 April 2008
Bike Alliance Holds Board and Staff Retreat
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington held a board and staff retreat on April 19 in Kirkland.
It was a great opportunity for Board and staff to get to know each other, and for new Board members to
learn the history of the organization.
Board president Ralph Wessels welcomed attendees and past Board member Arnie Tomac
provided an historical overview. Staff members made brief presentations on their roles with the Bicycle Alliance
and a financial overview was provided. Kristin Kinnamon, Board member and chair of the Legislative and Statewide
Issues Committee, recapped this year's legislative activities and gathered suggestions for next year's agenda.
Afternoon discussion focused on elements of the organization's strategic plan. Participants discussed the
continued need for an Eastern Washington staff person and ways the BAW could make this a reality. Expanding
community and club outreach and increasing membership were also expressed goals. A commitment was made to begin
the process to hire a development director as soon as the strategic plan updates are finalized.
April 2008
Meetings and final comment period for State Bike-Ped Plan
Individual riders have an opportunity to influence future biking and walking policies in Washington State.
The Washington Department of Transportation is in the final stages of completing its review of the state-wide
bicycle and pedestrian plan. The publication of a new plan will then guide the state's bicycle and pedestrian
policies for the near future. A series of public hearings on the plan are scheduled for April in Vancouver (4/22),
Ellensburg (4/23), Spokane (4/24) and Seattle (4/25). You can also provide comments by
email and phone.
Meeting Times and venues:
April 22 - 6:30-8:00pm
Southwest Regional WSDOT offices
11018 NE 51st Circle
Vancouver, WA 98682
April 23 - 6:30-8:00pm
Hal Holmes Center,
209 N Ruby St
Ellensburg, WA 98926
April 24 - 7-9pm
West Central Community Center
1603 N. Belt Street
Spokane, 99205
April 25 - 4-6pm
REI Store
222 Yale Avenue, N.
Seattle, 98109
A copy of the draft final report is can be viewed at the
WSDOT website.
March 2008
Legislative session is over - BAW efforts gain traction
Two out of three measures the Bicycle Alliance directly supported in Olympia this year have gained approval.
The 2 for 3 record means that bicycle and pedestrian safety (House Bill 2564) will be written into the curriculum
materials prepared for high school students taking drivers' education classes throughout Washington.
And pilot biking and walking programs in three schools districts have gotten funded in the budget approved by
the transportation committees in the House and Senate. Both measures are subject to the governor's final signature.
The only measure that did not succeed this year was a bill to specify that three feet be designated a
minimum safe passing distance when motor vehicles are passing cyclists and walkers. Although HB 2732 was given a
public hearing in the House Transportation Committee, Washington State Patrol testified against it and the BAW
decided to not pursue it any further this year. Bicycle Alliance will meet with WSF in coming weeks to gain
support for this important safety measure.
In other bills supported by the BAW, the key measure that passed was SB 6580 which addresses global warming.
It went through many iterations before being approved by lawmakers. SB 6580 requires the Department of
Community Trade and Economic Development to develop methods and tools for local governments to deal with
reducing carbon emissions. There will also be grants made available to cities and counties.
A separate bill - HB 3154 and its Senate companion, SB 6822 - aimed at reducing the number of car
trips did not succeed but some of its elements were incorporated into SB6580.
Bills on tolling, recycling and the ability of motorcycles to turn left at stop lights that are not
triggered by the presence of a motorcycle, all failed to make it through the legislative session.
On the often equally important task of stopping bills that could potentially hurt bicycling, the BAW lobbied
hard to weaken HB 2344, which would have complicated the process of converting abandoned railroad lines
into trails. After seeing it pass almost unanimously from the House, BAW worked with its supporters in the
Senate to remove the offending section that would have required the Washington DoT to set up a public process
to review abandonments, a step the BAW considered unnecessary. In the end, the bill never made it through the
Senate.
March 2008
Bellevue Transportation Commission Schedules Ped-Bike Plan Meetings
The Bellevue Transportation Commission
continues work on their
Walk & Roll 2007 Pedestrian-Bike Plan.
The Transportation Commission will consider improvements included in Walk & Roll plan in March.
- March 6, 6 p.m. : Draft Network Plan and Project List Workshop
- March 27, 6:30 p.m. : Follow-up on Draft Network Plan and Project List and Draft Prioritization Framework
- April 10, 6:30 p.m. : Final Network Plan and Project List
All of the meetings are on Thursdays at
City Hall
450 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue, in Room 1E-113.
You can also provide your input with their new interactive mapping system
that allows you to view and comment on proposals to improve Bellevue's network of bikeways,
sidewalks, and trails. [if it doesn't work with your browser, try using Firefox]
March 2008
"Legislative Bill Watch" 2008
By Kristin Kinnamon, Board Member
Bicycle Alliance of Washington
The following bills are supported by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington or are of interest to the cycling community.
The BAW works year-round with our lobbyist and legislators in Olympia and with other environmental and
transportation advocacy groups to promote legislation that supports cycling. This year's focus is driver education,
safety and better planning that includes bicycles in the transportation mix. Please contact your legislators in
support of cycling. The regular session ends March 13.
HB = House Bill; SB = Senate Bill; extra S means it's a Substitute bill replacing the original
SB 6420/HB 2564 - Drivers' education curriculum. This is an updated version of last year's HB 1588.
It adds bicyclist and pedestrian safety information to public school drivers' ed classes (Thanks to BAW efforts,
Dept. of Licensing just started requiring private programs to cover these topics). We heard from legislators that
some electeds made fun of the idea that you'd need to learn how to walk or bike. At the Senate hearing, there was
strong interest in educating cyclists about safe "driving" as well (tell them that this drivers' ed bill is a great
way to do that). House Sponsors: Upthegrove, Pederson, VanDeWege, Ormsby, Hunt, Wood, McIntire, Roberts, Hudgins,
Jarrett, Rolfes, Kagi, Chase, Simpson. Senate Sponsors: Jacobsen, Kohl-Welles, Kilmer, McDermott, Brown,
Murray, Kline, Rockefeller.
SB 6822/HB 3154 - Reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled. This bill requires DOT to set goals for reducing
"vehicle miles traveled" in support of greenhouse gas reductions. Best practices - such as improving bike
facilities? - are to be identified and financing options for local governments suggested. Senate Sponsors:
Murray, Pridemore, Kline, Kohl-Welles, McAuliffe, Sheldon. House Sponsors: Upthegrove, Simpson, Dickerson,
Wood, Williams, Hudgins, Eddy, Goodman, McIntire, Ormsby.
HB 2732 - Vehicle Passing Distance. Adds detail to current safe passing legislation that vehicles
shall pass at a safe distance "of no less than three feet." At the hearing on the bill, the Washington State Patrol
said they were concerned about needing to carry around yardsticks to enforce this bill. Truckers are concerned
they'll need to cross the yellow line to pass. House Sponsors: Rolfes, Chase, Williams, Rodne, Pedersen, Nelson,
Hasegawa, Upthegrove, Lantz, Simpson, Kagi.
SHB 1773/SSB 6355 - Tolling. The goal is to make sure that tolling revenues can be spent not
just to improve and maintain the bridge or road tolled, but also on transit, bicycle facilities and other
"demand management" efforts in the affected corridor. The substitute (amended) bills include the important
word "manage" defining how tolls can be spent. House Sponsors: Clibborn, Jarrett. Senate Sponsors: Haugen.
HB 1353 - Recylcing Beverage Containers. Requires a 5 cent refundable deposit and establishment
of redemption centers for all glass, metal or plastic beverage bottles (in addition to the environmental
benefit of recycling, if glass bottles are worth $$ this should
result in less broken glass on the roadway). This bill did not get a hearing or
move out of committee in 2007, but it's ba-aack! House Sponsor: Chase.
HB 2797/SB 6580 - Local Solutions to Global Warming. We are supporting the environmental
community on this bill, which would add a requirement to the Growth Management Act that large cities and
counties consider greenhouse gas emissions in their planning and growth. House Sponsors: Simpson, Eddy,
Campbell, Ormsby, Dunshee, Linville, Nelson, Jarrett, Springer, Wallace, Fromhold, Takko, Williams,
Dickerson, Flannigan, Morrell, Chase, Lantz, Sells, Hunt, Pedersen, McCoy, Conway, Sullivan, Kenney,
Darneille, McIntire, Green, Hudgins, Hasegawa, Ericks. Senate Sponsors: Marr, Weinstein, Pridemore,
Kauffman, Keiser, McAuliffe, Hobbs, Regala, Kline, Kohl-Welles, Fairley, Oemig, Rockefeller, Prentice, McDermott.
SB 5543/SHB 1625 - Motorcycle at Traffic Signal. Back from unsuccessful try in 2007 to let
motorcycles proceed through intersections if not detected up by the signal sensor after one cycle. The substitute bill
adds requirements for insurance or bonding for the motorcyclist. We can't add bikes in due to the bill title -
but we're watching for an opportunity of our own on this issue. House Sponsors: DeBolt, Hinkle, Warnick, Seaquist,
Kagi, Kirby, Hunt, Wood, Dickerson, Conway, Lovick, Roach, Chase, Dunn, Flannigan, McCune, Priest, McDermott,
Santos, Williams, McDonald, Newhouse, Alexander, Strow, Kretz, Condotta, Roberts, Ormsby, Haigh, Rolfes, Moeller.
Senate Sponsors: Kilmer, Holmquist, Sheldon, Marr, Hargrove, Regala, Carrell, Delvin, Pridemore, Oemig, Schoesler,
Shin, Rasmussen.
You can check the status of these and other bills at www.leg.wa.gov/legislature
We are also working through the budget process - no bills needed - to fund a pilot program in three school
districts for P.E. teachers to train students on safe bicycle riding.
28 February 2008
Help Make the Spokane County Regional Trails Plan a Reality!
Public Hearing: Spokane County Regional Trails Plan
Thursday, Feb 28, 2008 at 9:00am
Public Works Building, County Commissioners' Hearing Room
1026 W Broadway Ave in Spokane
The Spokane County Planning Commission is holding a public hearing on a proposed amendment to adopt
the County's first ever regional trails plan. You have an opportunity to show your support attending
the hearing and speaking in favor of it. If adopted, the regional trails plan calls for the completions
of the Centennial and Fish Lake Trails, development of a trail between the Centennial Trail and
Mt Spokane State Park, preservation of the of the abandoned Ben Burr railroad right-of-way in southeast
Spokane County for a trail, and much more.
A copy of the trails plan can be viewed at
www.spokanecounty.org/parks/prhome.htm
7 February 2008
Successful Transportation Advocacy Day in Olympia
Advocacy Day Draws Members to Olympia: bills pass first hurdle
More than sixty passionate believers in better biking, walking and transit options braved inclement
winter weather for the annual Transportation Advocacy Day in Olympia January 29. The event is put on by a
coalition of progressive groups, including the Bicycle Alliance,
Transportation Choices Coalition, Feet First, Sierra Club, Climate Solutions, All Aboard Washington and others.
As well as meeting one-on-one with representatives and senators, attendees were able to sit in on
hearings scheduled in the House Transportation Committee and its counterpart in the senate.
Two bills promoted by the BAW were given hearings before the House Transportation Committee (HB 2564 and HB 2732)
and one bill was heard in the Senate Transportation Committee (SB 6420).
SB 6420 passed out of committee Feb. 5 and its house companion HB 2564 on Feb. 6.
These bills add material on bicyclists and pedestrians to the drivers' education curriculum.
A second House bill (HB 2732) that seeks to define "safe passing" as a minimum of three feet when motor
vehicles are passing bicyclists and pedestrians was opposed by the Teamsters Union and Washington State Patrol.
In conjunction with bill sponsor, Rep. Christine Rolfes (D. 23rd), the BAW has decided to work on the issue
over the summer and return with an improved bill in 2009.
The BAW is also monitoring the following bills:
- SB 6822/HB 3154 - Reducing vehicle miles traveled.
- SHB 1773/SSB 6355 - Highway tolling
- HB 1353 - Recycling beverage containers.
- HB 2797/SB 6580 - Local solutions to global warming.
- SB 5543/SHB 1625 - Motorcycle at traffic signal
Watch for action alerts in which BAW requests that you contact your local legislators.
4 February 2008
JRA Bike Shop OPEN at BikeStation
Eric Berg is the owner/mechanic of the JRA Bike Shop, operating in the front section
of the BikeStation. Bike shop Hours are: Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
You can reach Eric at 206-307-1179 and his email is JRAbikes@gmail.com
4 February 2008
Bike racks coming back to Metro buses
From the Seattle Times:
Bike racks should be back on all Metro Transit buses today, according to agency spokeswoman Thielke.
Early last month, Metro removed racks that could hold up to three bikes from about 400 buses.
There were concerns about the operation of that style of rack, so Metro temporarily replaced
them with two-bike racks.
But there was a shortage of two-bike racks, so some buses were left without a rack.
Two-bike racks have now been located for all Metro buses, and installation is scheduled to
be completed today. Thielke says Metro hopes eventually to switch back to the three-bike racks.
29 January 2008
Transportation Advocacy Day in Olympia
Let your legislators know about your interest in bicycling as part of the state and local
transportation system and for recreation. Come speak to them in person by joining with other bicyclists,
walkers and transit promoters during the annual Transportation Advocacy Day,
January 29th in Olympia.
The Bicycle Alliance, along with
Transportation Choices,
Feet First,
All Aboard Washington
and
other groups is behind the organization of this event. Food and beverages,
inspiration, and key talking points will be provided. There are even some free rides - on a first-come basis - for
the trip to Olympia from residents of the Seattle area, courtesy of
FlexCar, the car-sharing company.
We'd love your presence. This is a great opportunity to get lawmakers' attention and ensure they are
informed about issues important to bicyclists by hearing directly from bicyclists. Last year, we had
representation from across the state.
If you can only do one act of bicycle advocacy this year, this is one!
This will be a high energy day of talking bicycling to politicians,
some of whom may have never ridden a bike as an adult. Help them get educated on the role of good road design,
funding for bicycling and policies that encourage a balanced transportation system.
A big thank you to BAW members Bob and Katherine Duffy, who are taking care of the logistics in
Olympia once again.
Participants will rendezvous at 8:00am on Tuesday, January 29th at:
United Churches of Olympia
110 Eleventh Ave. SE
Olympia, WA 98501
If you are interested in participating, let us know by by January 15.
You can
register online at the website
of our partners Transportation Choices Coalition.
Directions to The United Churches of Olympia
(located on the corner of Capitol Way and 11th Avenue SE).
You can figure out directions from this
online map.
What is the Bicycle Alliance legislative agenda for 2008? We are targeting just a few issues because
this is a short, non-budget session meaning little new is likely to happen. Even so, we'd like to see:
- Driver's Education - adding curriculum on bike-pedestrian safety to public school drivers' ed classes.
We've already succeeded in having a "share the road" section included in all private drivers' ed
classes through the Department of Licensing.
- Student Transportation Education - a revised version of our Mobility Education Bill
from last year that would pilot bike-ped-transit classes for elementary school students.
- Recycling at Events - House Bill 2056 leftover from last year would require permitted gatherings
to provide glass, plastic and aluminum recycling of purchased beverages.
- Safe Passing Minimum - makes existing law more specific by adding three feet as the minimum
safe passing distance.
There will also be legislation on Local Action for Climate Change which the BAW will likely
support because it will favor bicycles as environmentally-friendly transportation.
24 January 2008
Bellevue Transportation Commission Reviews Ped-Bike Plan
The Bellevue Transportation Commission
will be discussing the
Walk & Roll 2007 Pedestrian-Bike Plan
at their upcoming meeting:
Jan. 24, 2008, 6:30 p.m.
Room 1E-113, City Hall
450 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue WA
Come to the meeting and tell the Commission you want improved connectivity of bike facilities in Bellevue!
You can also provide your input with their new interactive mapping system
that allows you to view and comment on proposals to improve Bellevue's network of bikeways,
sidewalks, and trails. [if it doesn't work with your browser, try using Firefox]
15 January 2008
Return Your Ballots!
As required by the bye-laws of the Bicycle Alliance,
all members have been mailed a copy of the ballot to select candidates for the Board of Directors.
There are four board members seeking re-election and four open places.
Members may vote for one or more candidates.
Members may vote either by returning the ballot form to Bicycle Alliance of Washington PO Box 2904, Seattle WA 98111
or electronically by sending an e-mail to info@bicyclealliance.org.
Ballots are due January 15, 2008
4 January 2008
Triple bike racks (temporarily?) removed from Metro Buses
There have been problems with some bikes falling off the triple bike racks on the bus fleet and Metro is
taking this very seriously. Here's the text of their notice:
CYCLIST ALERT-Updated Jan. 4, 2008
Starting Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008, bike racks will not be available on some Metro Transit routes and trips.
Some bike racks are being removed due to rack-operating concerns, and will be replaced in the coming weeks as they become available.
This change affects all bus trips on routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 12, 13, 14, 36, 49 and 70, and some trips on routes 7, 43 and 44.
The concerns regard bikes remaining tightly secured to the 3-position bike racks. Metro is working with the manufacturer to resolve the issues. In the meantime, all 3-bike racks are being removed. The goal is to temporarily replace them with 2-bike racks, but there are currently not enough of the 2-bike racks to equip every vehicle in Metro's fleet.
During the transition, it is possible that some buses may or may not have racks when or where cyclists expect them. It is not possible for Metro staff to know ahead of time if a bus has a rack. Cyclists are reminded that rack use is first come, first served, and, with the exception of bikes that fold safely, bicycles may not be carried inside buses.
Metro appreciates your patience while this issue is being resolved. Please check this site for updates.
Metro just updated the bus bike rack info on
their website.
Check there for updates.
2010
| 2009
| 2008
2007
2006
| 2005
28 November 2007
Issaquah-Highpoint Regional Trail Connector Opens
by Kent Peterson, Commuting Program Director
Sometimes I go rather far afield for my job, like this past July when I rode all around the state.
November 28th, I got to stick close to home, representing the Bicycle Alliance at the official opening of the
Issaquah-High Point Regional Trail connector. You have to come up with something to say at these things, so
I got up early and jotted a few notes. I knew I'd be talking after the mayor and the council people
and the various transportation folks had said their pieces and pretty much thanked everyone.
I wanted to keep things brief but still say something. This is what I said:
A couple of weeks ago I was at the opening of the new REI here in town, chatting with a fellow. Most of the time he's working at one of the REI stores in the southwest but he'd come to Issaquah to help open the new store. "You're lucky to live here," he said to me and when he found out I'd lived here for the past 14 years he added, "I bet it's changed a lot."
And I found myself telling this fellow how the space where the REI and the Safeway and the Target store are now had all been an open meadow and how old-timers remember back to when the 12th Avenue Cafe was on 12th Avenue and how there used to be cows grazing right across the street from my kid's elementary school. But mostly I told him how we still have salmon in the creek, and while some of the old farms are becoming condos, others are becoming parks. I told him how Rainier Boulevard was changed to better manage run-off, how abandoned rail lines have been turned into trails, how folks are working to clean up litter on the roadsides.
And I told him about the trail to High Point and the path under the freeway and along the shores of Lake Sammamish. How folks can walk and bike to places instead of driving and how the pieces link together in a greenway. How folks who never set foot or wheel on these paths still get value from them, for when you or I are hiking or walking on these paths, we're not sitting in a car stuck in traffic on Front Street. How every bike trip that's not a car trip helps keep the air just a bit cleaner.
We all make choices. How we vote, how we spend our money, how we spend our time, all these things really do matter. Ultimately, as Gandhi said, "actions express priorities." These trails and the bits of green we all share and enjoy and depend on are here because good people have put in a lot of work to make sure these things are not only here today, but here for our grand-kids and for the salmon, the heron, the frogs and all the rest of the world.
A lot of non-glamorous work goes into making a livable town. Lots of boring meetings, a lot of argument, a lot of compromise. To actually do things takes money, time and lots of good old-fashioned heavy lifting. It's really amazing that anything ever gets done.
But things like the Highpoint connector do get done and we owe a huge debt of thanks to the people who have put in all the work to make this happen. And now is when we roll up our sleeves and pitch in somewhere. Issaquah is a great place to live, but there still is plenty of work to do.
We are lucky to live here but it's the kind of luck Bruce Springsteen wrote about and I'm going to take the liberty to paraphrase the Boss just a little bit:
"When it comes to luck, we make our own
we've got dirt on our hands, but we're building a home."
You can read more about the new trail on
Kent's Blog
30 November 2007
Oh so cool - REI grant for schools
The Bicycle Alliance's
Safe Routes to School (SRtS) Program
continues to add to its list of successes. The program recently received a grant from
REI for a project titled
Ride Your Bike to Cool the Planet.
The Bicycle Alliance will work with 4 schools in King County to get kids to make the
connection between global warming and the role of bicycling as a pollution-free form of transportation.
Students will be taught about the concept of a carbon footprint with the ultimate
goal of getting more kids to ride their bicycles.
The Bicycle Alliance, along with Feet First, formed and
continues to operate the Center for Safe Routes to School in Washington State.
The Center continues to receive a lot of attention and one of the tools it is developing is being
considered to be a pilot project for a SRtS/Commute Trip Reduction Study being funded by the state legislature.
During Walk to School Month (October) the Center provided advice and thousands of incentives to schools
across Washington.
21 November 2007
Can't get no respect? Get some insight.
Take a browse at
this article
from Alan Durning, of the Sightline Institute, an environmental think tank based in Seattle and covering the
Pacific Northwest.
Read more from their ongoing series of articles
that looks at the issue of "bicycle neglect", why most Cascadian cities don't treat
bicycles as transportation, which communities are doing the best job, and what's at stake.
Nov-Dec 2007
Comment on Burke-Gilman Train DEIS
The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (36.10MB PDF) (EIS)
for the Burke-Gilman Trail Redevelopment Project
is being released for public review and comment.
A thirty (30) day comment period for interested citizens and agencies will begin on November 1, 2007 and end on December 3, 2007.
Upon request, the County will be extending the deadline for written comments to 5:00
p.m., December 18, 2007.
The Draft EIS is available for review at the following locations:
- Seattle Public Library, Lake City Branch — 12501 28th Ave. N.E., Seattle, WA
- Lake Forest Park Public Library — 17171 Bothell Way N.E., Lake Forest Park, WA
- Kenmore Library — 18138 73rd N.E., Kenmore, WA
- Bothell Regional Library — 18215 98th Ave. N.E., Bothell, WA
- Shoreline Library — 345 N.E. 175th, Shoreline, WA
Written comments may be sent to:
Gina Auld
King County Facilities Management Division
King Street Center
201 South Jackson Street, #700,
Seattle, WA 98104
or sent via e-mail to fmd.sepacomments@kingcounty.gov.
If you have any questions about this
proposal, or about the Draft EIS, please contact Gina Auld at (206) 263-7281.
Nov 2007 - Jan 2008
Destination 2030 - Long Range Transportation Plan for Puget Sound
The Puget Sound Regional Council is updating
Destination 2030,
the region's long range transportation plan, and is asking for input on how to best keep the region moving as
it grows by 1.5 million people.
Originally adopted in 2001, Destination 2030 lays out a strategy to meet regional transportation demands in King,
Kitsap, Pierce, and Snohomish counties until the year 2030.
The updated plan will extend the plan horizon to 2040 and evaluate ways to keep the region moving and
the economy prospering as the population grows by 1.5 million. At the same time, we must protect the
environment, natural resources, and quality of life that people in the region enjoy. The updated plan will
continue to meet federal transportation planning requirements and state Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements,
and will align with the Regional Economic Strategy and the updated Regional Growth Strategy - VISION 2040.
For more information contact, Mike Cummings, Program Manager at 206-464-6172 or mcummings@psrc.org.
Public Scoping Meetings:
Seattle: January 10, Noon to 2 p.m.
PSRC, 1011 Western Avenue, #500
Bellevue: January 15, 4 to 7 p.m.
City Hall, 450 - 110th Avenue
Bremerton: January 16, 4 to 7 p.m.
Sylvan Way Library, 1301 Sylvan Way
Tacoma: January 23, 4 to 7 p.m.
Main Library, 1102 Tacoma Ave. S.
Auburn: January 24, 4 to 7 p.m.
City Hall, 25 West Main Street
Everett: January 28, 4 to 7 p.m.
Main Library, 2702 Hoyt Avenue
Public Comment Form (also can be used
to sign up for email list).
15 November 2007
Looking for a few good Board Members
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington (BAW) is currently seeking candidates to fill three vacancies
on its board of directors. The BAW is an alliance of bicycle clubs, advocacy groups and individual
bicyclists from around the state. The BAW mission is to advocate for bicyclists and promote policies
that result in adequate funding for a complete non-motorized transportation infrastructure and
to ensure that bicycling is recognized and embraced as an essential component of a balanced
transportation system. The Bicycle Alliance works to increase the percentage of all types
of bicycle ridership in Washington, as well as to encourage communities throughout the state
to become bicycle-friendly. The Bicycle Alliance acts as a statewide clearinghouse for bicycle
education and advocacy.
We are seeking cyclists who can commit the time and energy to make Washington a better place for
all bicyclists. Our board is actively involved in setting policies, establishing goals and actively
participating in fund-raising. In addition, the BAW encourages cyclists who can bring a geographic
balance and good connections within the cycling community, funding or policy making realm to join our board.
The board meets both in person and by conference call 9-10 times a year. Board members are typically
involved in areas of specialization, such as fund-raising, legislation etc between board meetings.
If you are looking for a leadership opportunity to make Washington a great place for all bicyclists
please consider serving on the BAW board of directors. For more information contact Julie Mercer at
mercerdesigns@comcast.net phone 206.935.2330 or Bobby Mullins at bmullin@rei.com phone 206.286.9527.
13 November 2007
Raising a Beer for our Volunteers!
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington hosted a party at the Pike Pub and Brewery Tuesday November 13th to show our appreciation for the
faboulous volunteers who made the auction happen.
Achieving success at the auction is very much a team effort. Eighty-two volunteers logged 720 hours of
their time over the weeks before and on the night of the auction, October 27.
"I was overwhelmed by the hard work and enthusiasm of the huge group of volunteers who
managed the nuts and bolts of the Auction," said Membership director Mark Canizaro.
Photos by Gary Strauss show some of the volunteers (and staff) who attended the party:
5 November 2007
Lighting the way to safety with Get Lit ride
They say it's better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness and on Monday night,
November 5th 2007, volunteers gathered not with candles but with LED lights, bicycles and reflective gear.
The mission was to celebrate and promote safe night-time cycling.
Thanks to funds provided by Seattle cycling attorney John Duggan, proceeds from the
"Share the Road" license plate program,
various individual donors and support from the bicycle
component company Planet Bike,
the Bicycle Alliance of Washington provides bicycle lights
to low-income cyclists through a program called Get Lit. Riders gathered at the
Seattle Bike Station and then rode to deliver lights to Goodwill Industries,
Union Gospel Mission and Plymouth Housing Group for distribution.
Other light recipients include
Bike Works in Columbia City,
the Salvation Army,
Spokane's Pedals-2-People and various homeless and low-income individuals.
It was a beautiful night for a ride and various drivers and pedestrians had great
questions and comments for the well-lit, highly visible and enthusiastic group of riders.
The ride concluded at the Seattle Bike Station with hot cider, a comparison of various riders
lights and gear and reflective stickers for all.
More information on Get Lit is available from Commute Trip Director
(206) 224-9252 Ext. 304.
November 2007
Auction attendees and volunteers show their support for bicycle advocacy
The 15th Annual Bicycle Alliance gala dinner and auction took on a Texas twang this year with the voice of
auctioneer Gayle Stallings stirring up some lively bidding. Proceeds from the silent and live auction brought
in some $75,000 for bicycle advocacy. Stallings is a former executive director of the
Texas Bicycle Coalition
who changed careers after attending an earlier Bicycle Alliance auction in Seattle.
Although overall income from the auction was down from 2006, there were some encouraging signs: live auction
items generally sold for more than estimated value and the new the Big Board holds potential to further
increase the evening's sales.
Another positive development was the appeal to have attendees pay for their purchases by check
instead of by credit card. "People really heard our request," said Membership director Mark Canizaro. "We saved $1000 in credit car
fees this year over last year. That's $1000 more that goes directly into bicycle advocacy."
Achieving success at the auction is very much a team effort. Eighty-two volunteers logged 720 hours of
their time over the weeks before and on the night of the auction, October 27.
"I was overwhelmed by the hard work and enthusiasm of the huge group of volunteers who
managed the nuts and bolts of the Auction," said Canizaro.
The first-year venue of the Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center proved a big hit.
With no pillars to block views and a built-in sound system, gala guests got to see and hear the
proceedings completely. The 2008 auction will be back at Fisher Pavilion next fall, and
Stallings will again be the auctioneer. Check back here for the actual date.
5 November 2007
Light up the night: take part in the Get Lit bike ride
To celebrate the winter clock-change and the transition to riding on darkened streets,
the Bicycle Alliance of Washington invites you to take part in a special ride.
The Get Lit ride is to promote the importance of safe nighttime riding and the use of lights
and conspicuous clothing. To help ensure that all riders have access to front and rear lights, the
Bicycle Alliance will donate lights to a number of organizations to distribute to their members.
The alliance invites bicyclists to take part in the free Get Lit ride November 5 in Seattle.
Riders will meet at Bikestation Seattle at 4:30 PM. After a brief discussion of safe night cycling,
riders will ride as a group to the Union Gospel Mission, The Salvation Army, Plymouth Housing Group,
Goodwill and Bike Works. At each of these locations bicycle lights will be delivered to be distributed at
no cost to low-income cyclists. These lights have been provided by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington's
Get Lit program as part of an ongoing effort to improve road safety for all cyclists in Washington.
Major funding for this program has been provided by attorney John Duggan, individual donors and
Bicycle Alliance income from the Washington State
Share The Road license plates.
All riders must register at the start of the ride and have lights, reflective gear and a bicycle helmet. An award will be given for the best-lit cyclist and the most creatively lit cyclist. All riders will receive reflective stickers. Hot cider will be provided at the end of the ride and at BikeWorks.
When: November 5 (Monday) at 4:30pm
Start: BikeStation Seattle, 311 3rd Avenue South.
Finish: BikeStation Seattle
Cost: free (disclaimer form must be filled in)
Distance: approximately 10 miles
November 2007
Bicycle Alliance Endorses Proposition 1
The Board of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington has endorsed the Roads and Transit
(Proposition 1 in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties) ballot measure in November's election.
The Board's endorsement is based upon the analysis of the proposition and a recommendation by
BAW's Legislative and Statewide Issues Committee. The Committee includes representatives from bicycle
clubs and bicycle advocates from around the state. The Committee's evaluation also included discussion
with others and review of analyses performed by both supporters and opponents of the measure.
While this package has good things for bicyclists, we acknowledge that it is far from perfect.
BAW recognizes that it was created in a political environment and is a result of negotiation from
those with differing viewpoints. It was also created to make a big difference in transportation in
the Puget Sound region for the next 50 years. We believe the Bicycle Alliance should support this
package and make a public endorsement. While many of us have personal reservations about adding road
lanes and the associated environmental impacts of additional motor vehicles, we considered the overall
content of the measure based on its merits for bicycling and the progress towards creating a more
balanced transportation system. For members in the three counties who will be voting on this proposition,
the following is part of the part of the analyses used by the BAW Legislative and State-wide Issues
Committee in reaching its decision. We encourage everyone to become well informed on the issue.
- Do the roads projects include bicycle elements where appropriate?
Yes. New bike lanes across the 520 bridge, a Highway 509 bike path, the Spokane Street viaduct, several bike lane
crossings of I-5 in Snohomish County, and $25 million for non-motorized improvements in Pierce County are
just a few examples. See www.rtid.org
for a complete list of roads projects by county.
- Will the regional light rail and transportation improvements benefit bicyclists?
Yes. Some of the key corridors mentioned above will be a huge benefit. Light rail
and multi-modal rail and ferry stations in the package can also be a benefit to bicyclists.
- Will the package impact land use in a way that will benefit cyclists?
60% of the funding for this package funds a 50-mile expansion of Sound Transit light rail,
from Lynnwood to Tacoma, from Seattle to Redmond. That alone will help to drive compact, bike and
pedestrian-friendly development patterns. See www.soundtransit.org
for a description of the rail package. Improved land use will lead to more walkable and bikeable communities.
- Is there the ability to include bicycle facilities in projects not fully defined?
The roads portion of this package is locally controlled. That means bicycle
advocates can influence the design with local government and elected officials. We will need to work
with them to make sure the bike elements in the projects are retained, and to develop good designs for
projects still being developed.
- If the measure fails, will the next proposal be better or worse?
We believe that the roads and transit measure would likely provide a more balanced
transportation system than future ad hoc proposals put forth by special interests groups. The population of
Washington and the Puget Sound region will continue to increase. We believe that the Roads and Transit
measure may help to shape transportation in the manner desired by bicyclists as compared to other possible
proposals should the measure fail.
- Why is the Board of the Bicycle Alliance supporting the measure while some bicyclist and
environmentalist groups are opposed to it?
The measure contains both positive and negative features. We believe that the long-term
benefits from this measure out-weigh the negative effects. This measure has the potential to reshape
land-use around Puget Sound and create communities that are less automobile dependent. It represents
an opportunity that can direct growth in ways that is more compatible with bicycling and walking.
Other groups may believe that the negative features outweigh or are not acceptable, regardless of
the positive features.
October 2007
Bellevue seeks comments as part of Bike-Ped plan update
After months of public input, including focus groups and online surveys,
the City of Bellevue has drafted potential updates and improvements to the network of bike
and pedestrian-friendly paths, lanes and trails in Bellevue. The
draft network plan report
includes 188 miles of bikeway, 85 miles of sidewalk, and 25 miles of trail facilities.
It's aimed at supporting pedestrians and bicyclists with varying levels of experience.
Viewable/Downloadable copy of the
Draft Network Plan Report [PDF].
The city now wants to hear what you think about these project recommendations.
You can provide your input with their new interactive mapping system
that allows you to view and comment on proposals to improve Bellevue's network of bikeways,
sidewalks, and trails.
Public meetings are planned for the following dates and places:
- Oct. 22 at 6 p.m., City Council, Room 1E-113, Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave. N.E.
- Oct. 23 at 6:45 p.m., Eastside Runners Group, Kirkland Kingsgate Library, 12315 N.E. 143rd, Kirkland
- Oct. 25 at 5:30 p.m., Transportation Commission, Room 1E-113, Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave. N.E.
- Nov. 7 at 10 a.m., Chinese-speaking residents (in collaboration with Chinese Information and Service Center), North Bellevue Community Center lunchroom, 4063 148th Ave. N.E.
21 October 2007
Celebrate SE Boulevard Bike Lane opening
When: Sunday, October 21 at 10:00 AM
Where: Start at Fourth and Sherman; Stop at 30th and SE Boulevard/Great Harvest Bread Company
Why: To Celebrate the completion of the SE Boulevard bike lanes
Join Spokane's
Bicycle Advisory Board (BAB),
the Bicycle Alliance's executive director, and cyclists from around the region for a bike ride to celebrate
the opening of the SE Boulevard bike lanes. Riders will depart from 4th and Sherman at 10:15 AM to ride the new
and previously existing portions of the bike lane to 30th and SE Boulevard.
We will then meet at Great Harvest Bread Company for a no-host celebration of camaraderie, coffee, hot chocolate
and fresh baked goods. This just completed project is the first of what the BAB plans to be a cohesive
network of bicycle lanes, routes, paths and boulevards that will connect neighborhoods to the city's core,
providing safer and more enjoyable alternatives to driving in and around Spokane.
16-25 October 2007
Burke-Gilman Trail Closures Oct 16-25
Work announcement from Seattle Department of Transportation:
Burke-Gilman Trail Closed at 30th NE and NE Blakely
Closure extended through October 25th
SEATTLE-The Burke-Gilman Trail, near the northeast corner of the
University Village, is closed for about 80 feet at 30th Avenue NE and
NE Blakely Street. SDOT is reconstructing the trail due to tree root
damage. The work involves removal of asphalt, installing a root barrier
and replacing the trail asphalt. The work was to be completed and the
trail reopened by late tomorrow, Friday (October 19th), however, the
closure will continue possibly until Thursday, October 25 due to a delay
in delivery of construction materials. Trail users should use caution
approaching the area and follow the signage directing bicyclists along
the edge of the trail on Blakely.
This is the first of ten root damage repair work locations on the trail
heading north, with the final location being just north of Matthews
Beach. The work, which will make for more pleasant and safer travel,
has been held until now in order to avoid the peak recreational trail
usage occurring during the summer and early fall. Future closures will
be announced as the work dates near, weather permitting.
The Seattle Department of Transportation builds, maintains and operates
Seattle's $8 billion transportation infrastructure. To further Mayor
Nickels' goal to get Seattle moving, the department manages short- and
long-term investments in streets, bridges, pavement and trees, that
better connect the city with the region.
For more info, please contact: Peg Nielsen, 206.684.8114
17-20 October 2007
Utility work along I-90 Trail through Mercer Slough Oct 17-20
King County will be conducting sewer line inspections in Mercer Slough Nature Park in Bellevue from
Wednesday, Oct. 17 - Saturday, Oct. 20. The length of sewer pipe to be inspected runs underneath
the wetlands adjacent to the bicycle/pedestrian trail between I-90 and the Mercer Slough Boat Launch Access.
Trail users should be aware of work equipment, narrowed trail near testing sites and cordoned off sections.
Work will take place weekdays 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Trail users should obey posted
signs and proceed with caution in both directions between I-90 and the Mercer Slough Boat Access Road while
the testing occurs.
For more info, please contact:
Doug Marsano
Community Relations Planner
King County Wastewater Treatment Division
206-684-1235
Doug.Marsano@kingcounty.gov
1 October 2007
Personalized Share the Road License Plates available October 1
Already have a Share the Road license plate? Now you can personalize your plate instead of just being a number.
To find out what you can put on your plate and how to get it, check out our
Share the Road Plate FAQ page.
September 2007
Bicycle Alliance gets new Phone System
After years of using an out-dated and inefficient phone system, the Bicycle Alliance has a new, hi-tech phone system.
It will make the operation of our office more effective. All calls are now answered automatically.
You can enter the extension numbers listed below at any time. Here's a list of our staff extensions:
- Executive director Gordon Black - Ext. 300
- Membership director Mark Canizaro - Ext. 301
- Safe Routes to School Dave Janis - Ext. 302
- Special projects manager Louise McGrody - Ext. 303
- Commute director Kent Peterson - Ext. 304
- (if you want to reach one of our wonderful volunteers, call Ext. 305)
29-30 September 2007
Volunteers needed at Annual Sustainable Ballard Festival
The Bicycle Alliance is a sponsor of the 4th Annual Sustainable Ballard
Festival being held September 29 (11:00-6:00) and September 30 (11:00-5:00) at the
Ballard Commons Park. It is a wonderful event attended by thousands. We
are looking for volunteers to help us staff our table. If you are
interested in helping for a few hours on either day, please contact Dave
Janis at 206.224.9252 or Davej@bicyclealliance.org.
To learn more about the festival, go to
sustainableballard.org
Hope to see you there!
24 September 2007
Volunteers needed at Transit Tunnel reopening
The Seattle downtown transit tunnel reopens September 24th and there will be a celebration to mark the occasion.
The Bicycle Alliance will be present with a table and leaflets on BikeStation parking and
Bike Buddy Program,
as well as maps and information about cycling.
We're looking for volunteers to help out. Hours are 10am to 2pm on September 24.
Contact Kent Peterson at 206.224.9252 or kentp@bicyclealliance.org
if you are available.
Metro has announced some Important safety changes for bicyclists in the tunnel. Read the
details in:
Bikes in Seattle Transit Tunnel [pdf].
22 September 2007
Columbia City CAN Kick-Off Event
Saturday, September 22nd 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Mayor Nickels to present at 10:00 am
Bike Works, Cascade Bicycle Club, the Bicycle Alliance, the Bikery and Tutta Bella Restaurant are pleased to announce a new collaboration with the City of Seattle and over seventy community partners and local businesses who are coming together to inspire concrete action on climate change. The community-wide effort, called Seattle Climate Action Now (Seattle CAN!), invites all Seattle residents to become part of the solution to climate change by taking concrete steps to increase home energy efficiency and transportation efficiency. The campaign also provides avenues for civic engagement and collective action. The practical steps promoted in the campaign will help build a stronger, healthier community for our families today and will also help ensure a
brighter tomorrow for our children and grandchildren.
Come learn about climate pollution reduction and how biking more and driving less can be better for you and the planet. You can learn about bike maintenance, find out about how to get started in bike commuting, how to fit a bike and a helmet, figure out the best routes to ride, get local bike maps, learn about combined bike & bus commutes, and much more.
Join us for food, fun and refreshments and enter a raffle to win a free bike!
Seattle Climate Action Now! offers three tools:
1. Climate Action & Resource Web Portal
www.SeattleCAN.org is a one-stop-shop
designed to help you take climate action. The site includes:
- Get Started Guide for Climate Action in Seattle
- Zerofootprint Climate Action Planner - Tool to help residents calculate their carbon footprint, create an action plan for reducing it, track progress over time, and connect with others taking action
- Partners & Resources - Information about campaign partners and resources to help you take climate action
- Community Events Calendar
2. Climate Action Partnerships
The diverse network of community-based, nonprofit, and business partners who are collaborating to get the word out about climate action each bring a unique area of expertise and perspective. To learn more about who is participating in the campaign and why - or for information about how to join as an organizational partner - visit www.SeattleCAN.org
3. Community Action Days
Community events designed to help Seattle residents increase home energy efficiency (fall-winter emphasis) and reduce transportation emissions (spring-summer emphasis). Home energy and transportation are Seattle's two largest sources of climate pollution. The events will emphasize collective action, where possible, and will provide opportunities for partners to co-promote their activities and resources.
Bike Works,
Cascade Bicycle Club, the Bicycle Alliance
and the Bikery will continue to look
for ways to engage our members throughout this year-long campaign and your input is vital.
Contact us if you would like to help plan future events and activities.
Working together, Seattle CAN make a difference!
20 September 2007
City of Kent Transportation Master Plan Open House
City of Kent Transportation Master Plan Open House
Thursday, Sept 20, 2007, 2 - 8pm
Green River Community College
Kent Campus at Kent Station
417 Ramsey Way, Suite 112, Room 245
Would you like to see more safe biking facilities in Kent? Then don't miss this opportunity to comment on
Kent's future transportation system, including bike and pedestrian facilities!
The proposed bicycle network will be on display at the Open House.
Please review the information and make comments--pro and con!
There will not be a formal presentation. Drop by anytime.
20 September 2007
Bicycle Alliance Reception in Spokane
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is hosting a reception in Spokane!
Meet our new Executive Director, Gordon Black.
Meet other Bike Alliance members, movers and shakers in the local cycling community,
and folks who care about safe cycling in Spokane.
Bicycle Alliance of Washington Reception
Thursday, Sept 20, 6:30-8:30 pm
Mountain Gear Corporate Office
6021 E Mansfield in Spokane Valley
(pizza and refreshments provided)
Please RSVP by Sept 17 if you plan to attend!
Respond to Louise at 206.224.9252 or louisemc@bicyclealliance.org.
19 September 2007
Join us for a Walk on the Fish Lake Trail in Spokane!
Wednesday, September 19 at 6:00 pm
Meet in St Matthews Institutional Baptist Church parking lot
2815 W Sunset Blvd in Spokane
Co-hosted by Fish Lake Trail Action Group & Bicycle Alliance of Washington
Dan Shaffer of the Fish Lake Trail Action Group will lead us on a walk of the northern portion of the Fish Lake Trail corridor and provide us with an update on our trail project. We'll check out the temporary trailhead that was built during the REI work party in May. This is a great opportunity to explore a portion of the trail if you have not yet done so. Gordon Black, the new ED of Bicycle Alliance, will also be on this walk. Be sure to say hi!
There is a scheduled church activity that evening, so bathroom facilities will be available. They are also doing a dinner at 5:30 and have invited hungry walkers to join them if desired!
19 September 2007
Help Seattle DOT count bicycles in downtown Seattle
Help the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) help us! They are
looking for volunteers for the downtown bicycle counts on Wednesday,
September 19th. These counts are important as they help us justify the
need for more facilities. They want to place at least one person at each
of 29 counting locations.
The locations are all between Belltown and
Pioneer Square, and each volunteer can expect to be in position and
counting from 6:30 to 9:00 AM. If you are interested,contact Doug Cox of
SDOT at Douglas.Cox@seattle.gov
or 206-684-8264. He will provide you with
instructions, forms, and location assignments & maps.
16 September 2007
Tukwila gets rolling: tour of Tukwila bike/ped facilities
Calling all south King County riders.
The City of Tukwila is hosting a
bike ride September 16 as part of its examination of bike and pedestrian facilities.
The city wants to hear from trails users about conditions and areas ripe for improvement.
Ride departs from Tukwila City Hall, 6200 Southcenter Blvd, at 10am (distance: about 7 miles; pace: leisurely with frequent stops).
To attend the ride, RSVP assistant city planner Jaimie Reavis at (206) 431-3659 or
jreavis@ci.tukwila.wa.us by September 4.
15 September 2007
Screening of "Ayamye" benefitting Village Bicycle Project
The flyer below highlights the OTM sponsored benefit screening of "Ayamye" in Spokane 7pm Saturday 9/15,
at the New Magic Lantern Theatre, 25 W Main, in Spokane. Big thanks to the Saranac,
The Magic Lantern Film Society, the Bicycle Alliance of WA, and Dave Peckham of the
Village Bicycle Project
for helping make this happen.
26 August 2007
Sustainable Seattle Photo Shoot Aug 26 - Volunteers Needed!
Would you like to be part of a transportation photo shoot? Here's your chance! Join
International Sustainable Solutions
Sunday August 26th in partnership with regional agencies such as SDOT, King County Metro and Sound Transit for a series of photos
showing the benefits of moving people on foot, bicycles, buses, or light rail, rather than in their cars.
If you would like to volunteer, please contact Kristie Maxim at
kristie.maxim@onrequestimages.com.
Please specify if you can bring a bicycle, a car, or neither.
[Info for photo shoot participants]
It's a great opportunity to help create compelling images for a transportation alternatives message!
The City of Seattle is closing 2nd Avenue near Cherry for this photo shoot. Mayor Nickels and County Executive
Sims are both expected to participate. OnRequest Images is providing pro bono professional photographic support.
The photos will be used in a Commuter Toolkit, a series of materials highlighting the importance of developing
robust alternatives to people driving alone in their cars, and illustrating some of the key transportation
initiatives now under way.
Planned photos include:
- 177 cars (based on our current average of 1.15 people per car)
- 200 people standing without a vehicle, showing how much space is wasted when people drive alone in cars
- Three simulated buses with volunteers boarding (an average bus carries about 60+ riders)
- 200 riders in the simulated space of one Link light rail train
- 200 bicyclists
Click on the following links for more detailed info on the
Commuter Toolkit
and what volunteering entails:
Guidelines to participate in photo shoot
11 August 2007
Tour de Fat Fun and Photos
Tour de Fat
was once again a raving success! We raised over $7000 on beer sales alone, and we'll get more money
for the automobile that Jeremy Vrablik donated.
Bike Works was the co-beneficiary of the event and raised
money from sales of t-shirts, caps, and other cool schwag.
If you want to donate YOUR gas-guzzling behemoth to the Bicycle
Alliance (don't worry--we sell it for the $$, we won't be driving it!), please
contact Mark.
Couldn't make it? Well, check out all the fun these folks had (click photo to enlarge):
July 2007
Kirkland launches Cycling survey
As a part of revising The Non-motorized Plan, the City of Kirkland is
gathering data about how people bike in Kirkland. We'd like to know what
you like and what you'd like to see improved. We'd also like to know how
you would prioritize spending of funds to make biking easier. Take the
survey and give us your opinions! We're looking for responses from
everyone/anyone who cycles in Kirkland, so please forward this email to
your family, friends and co-workers.
Here's a link to the bicycle survey.
David Godfrey
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works
dgodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
(425) 587-3865
There's also a walking survey you can fill out.
6-20 August 2007 (approx.)
Construction to Cause Brief Disruption of Burke-Gilman Trail
Private construction activity near the Burke-Gilman Trail will disrupt
both bicycle and pedestrian use of the Trail between NE 125th Street and
NE 135th Street for an estimated 10 work days, excluding weekends,
beginning Monday, August 6.
The paved trail will be fenced off for a distance of approximately 400
feet north of NE 125th. The unpaved running and walking path along the
east side of the Trail will be open for use. Signage will direct
cyclists to dismount and walk their bikes through this section of the
Trail.
Parks regrets the need to close the Trail in the summer, but this
temporary reduction in the usability of the Trail is necessary for
safety reasons. A private construction project will include the
installation of several horizontal drain lines into the hillside above
the Trail. The drains are intended to release excess groundwater that
could contribute to continued sloughing of the hillside or a landslide.
The City is cooperating with this work by allowing access from the
Burke-Gilman Trail.
Contact: Dewey Potter, 206-684-7241
dewey.potter@seattle.gov
www.seattle.gov/parks
19 July 2007
Burke-Gilman Groundbreaking
You are invited to a Groundbreaking Event this Thursday, July 19, from 10 am to
11 am at Golden Gardens Park, west side of the intersection of Seaview Ave
NW and Seaview Place NW.
This will be breaking ground for the Burke-Gilman
Trail Extension NW 60th St. to Golden Gardens Park. For map and information
go to www.Seattle.gov/transportation/bgtrailext.htm.
Here is a flyer for the groundbreaking event [pdf].
July-Sept 2007
Temporary Changes to Bike Lane Ramp on Fremont Bridge
SDOT Traffic Advisory:
(Seattle)-Starting the week of June 25th and through September, bicyclists traveling northbound
on the
Fremont Bridge, on the sidewalk on the east side of the bridge, will use a temporary ramp
to reach the bike lane on Fremont Avenue North. The temporary ramp will be located north of the existing ramp.
Through September, with the exception of three two-leaf openings per day, the north half of the bridge
will remain closed and only the south half of the bridge will open for marine traffic. This will
allow the contractor to upgrade the bridge mechanical and electrical system.
The temporary ramp for bicycles is needed for safety, so a truck can be parked
in the location of the existing ramp, in position to move quickly onto the bridge to block
traffic when the bridge opens for marine traffic. The truck will serve as an additional barricade
to help prevent cars from continuing onto the north half of the bridge when the south half of the bridge
is opened for marine traffic.
Thank you for your patience during this final phase of improvements on the Fremont Bridge.
For more information about the project, see
site: www.seattle.gov/fremontbridge.
July 2007
BAW Commuting Program Director Tours Washington
Follow along: read Kent's Blog as he Wanders around Washington
Read articles about his journey: Getting there by bicycle - 23 July 2007, Spokane Spokesman-Review.
Message from Kent Peterson, Commuting Program Director:
The Bicycle Alliance has its headquarters in the Seattle Bike Station, so naturally we do a lot of work
in the Puget Sound area. But the Bicycle Alliance is a statewide organization and one of our goals
is to serve communities across the state. One day in April, as I was bike commuting in to the office,
I was thinking about how I could get more familiar with the bicycling resources,
concerns and conditions in other parts of the state. I was also thinking that it would be nice to take a
bike tour this summer. By the time I reached the office, I had a plan which I pitched to Barb and she approved.
From July 14th through July 28th, I'll be cycling around Washington. Since I have two ears and only one mouth,
I'm planning on doing at least twice as much listening as talking. I will be giving some seminars on commuting
and safe riding techniques but much of the trip will be a look and learn trip for me. I'll be connecting up
with Bicycle Alliance members in various locations, so I may have some civilized places to stay, but I'm also
planning on doing some bicycle camping as well. I'll be blogging from the road and compiling lists of
cycling related contacts, shops, and resources for the various places I'll be visiting.
Here's the basic schedule. Washington is a big state, but I've got a good background in long distance riding.
I couldn't fit everything in to one loop, but I tried to come close. It looks like I'll have to do
another trip at some point to cover the center of the state. On this trip I'll also go into Portland, Oregon
for a bit to see how they are doing things down there.
-
Sat. 7/14/2007 -- Port Townsend/Port Angeles
-
Sun. 7/15/2007 -- Bellingham
-
Mon. 7/16/2007 -- Hwy 20
-
Tue. 7/17/2007 -- Winthrop
-
Wed. 7/18/2007 -- Spokane
-
Thu. 7/19/2007 -- Spokane / Cheney
-
Fri. 7/20/2007 -- Walla Walla
-
Sat. 7/21/2007 -- Richland/Pasco/Kennewick
-
Sun. 7/22/2007 -- Yakima
-
Mon. 7/23/2007 -- Mt. St. Helens
-
Tue. 7/24/2007 -- Vancouver/Portland
-
Wed. 7/25/2007 -- Vancouver/Portland
-
Thu. 7/26/2007 -- Olympia
-
Fri. 7/27/2007 -- Tacoma
-
Sat. 7/28/2007 -- Seattle/Issaquah
So keep an eye out for me on the roads of Washington this July. I'd love to meet as many Bicycle Alliance members as possible and maybe ride some miles with you. Most importantly, let me know what the Bicycle Alliance can do to improve bicycling in your community.
Kent Peterson
June 2007
SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Project open houses
Enjoy some ice cream and get the latest scoop on the project. Learn more about:
-
4+2 corridor -- adding HOV lanes
- Tolling and project funding
- Eastside design collaboration
- Westside mediation process
- Supplemental draft environmental impact statement
- Pontoon construction site
- Catastrophic failure planning
Dates and Locations:
Bellevue High School
10416 Wolverine Way, Bellevue, WA
Tuesday, June 26th 4-7 PM
Off Bellevue Way Southeast, one block south of Main Street
Stevens Elementary School
1242 - 18th Avenue East, Seattle, WA
Thursday, June 28th 4-7 PM
Three blocks east of Volunteer Park
If you can't make it to these open houses, you might be able to catch the 520 team at various
farmer's markets, fairs, and festivals this summer. Check out their 520 Event Calendar
for dates and places.
More information at:
www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR520Bridge
SR520Bridge@wsdot.wa.gov
(206)781-3922
June 2007
WSDOT Kicks Off Updated Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan
WSDOT announces the kick off its State Bicycle Facilities and Pedestrian
Walkways Plan update. The plan, which is an element of Washington's
Multi-modal Transportation Plan, was last updated in 1995. WSDOT has
conducted a survey of public opinion about needs related to sidewalks,
crosswalks, trails, and bike lanes, which will serve as the basis for
the plan. As part of this effort, WSDOT will also propose a strategy
for addressing these needs and improving coordination between local
governments, regional agencies, and the state. For updated information
related to the draft plan, please call 360-705-7258 or visit the web
site: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Bike/Bike_Plan.htm.
Join WSDOT at one of
four scheduled public meetings to discuss the plan, and provide comments
and feedback (see dates below). Comments can also be submitted either
through the web site or by calling the toll free number: 1-866-375-6729.
Comments will be taken throughout the update process. All comments will
be considered in the final plan, scheduled for completion in spring
2008.
June 25, 2007
6:30-8:30 PM
Public Service Center
Elections Office
1305 Franklin @ Mill Plain
Vancouver, WA
June 26th, 2007
6:30-8:30 PM
University of Washington
Gould Hall - First Floor Foyer
Seattle, WA
June 27th, 2007
6:30-8:30 PM
Spokane City Council Chambers
808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.
Spokane, WA
June 28th, 2007
6:30-8:30
Thurston Regional Planning Council
2424 Heritage Court SW, Suite A
Olympia, WA
1 June 2007
Gordon Black Selected as BAW's New ED
On May 24, the BAW Board approved the selection of Gordon Black as the new Executive Director
for the Bicycle Alliance. The selection process was very competitive due to the high quality of the applicants.
The attractiveness of BAW is obviously based upon the organizations past successes, the support of the
membership, the wonderful, dedicated staff, and the quality of the Board.
Gordon's strong association with bicycling began in his native Scotland when he joined a bicycle club at age
thirteen and has continued to this day. He has a degree in communication from Napier College in Scotland.
He returned to school and obtained a BA in history and MA in teaching in 2005 from the University of Washington.
He has taught history at Bainbridge High School for the past two years and will continue through the end
of this school year. His work background includes 20 years experience as a journalist and writer and he has
covered diverse subjects such as a health-care issues during the legislative session, technology for the
Seattle Times, motorcycles, bicycles, and other trade publications. Many of you already know or
know of Gordon from his long association with BAW; from the dynamite advocacy organization, Squeaky Wheels,
he co-founded on Bainbridge Island; or from his time as a KUOW reporter.
Gordon is very enthused about being selected as the new ED and considers the ED position at BAW to be his dream job.
The staff, board and volunteers are very excited about working with Gordon.
He brings a lot of skills, ability, and energy to the ED position as our 20-year old,
statewide organization continues to improve bicycling in Washington.
Gordon's Scottish accent will begin to be heard around the office on a somewhat regular basis in
the last week of June. Barbara Culp will be working with Gordon to ensure there is a smooth
transition for the organization. Please join the Board and staff in welcoming Gordon to our
organization as the new Executive Director!
Spring 2007
Big Win for Bicycles on Statewide Transportation Goals
BAW boardmember Jill Priest on the left and Genessee Atkins (Transportation Choices) on the right watch
as
Governor Gregoire signs SB 5412 at the end of 2007 Spring Legislative Session
(Judy Clibborn, 41st District Mercer Island, Chair of Transportation Committee is standing next to the governor).
This bill changes the state's transportation goals from moving cars and
trucks to moving people and goods; a very important step for a bicycle-friendly Washington.
1 June 2007
BGT Extension Ground Breaking Celebration
BGT Extension Ground Breaking to be Rescheduled. Stayed tuned.
For more information and directions, please visit the
Burke-Gilman Trail project web page
or contact Diana Holloway, Project Manager, Seattle Department of Transportation
(206) 684-3970 or diana.holloway@seattle.gov.
19 May 2007
Spokane REI Hosts Fish Lake Trail Service Project
On, Saturday, May 19th, from 9am-12pm, REI will host its second annual Fish Lake Trail Service Project.
The Fish Lake Trail is part of the Rails to Trails network within the region.
This year's project scope will include building a trailhead at Lindeke Street,
trimming growth along the trail, proper noxious weed removal, and trail surface maintenance.
The trailhead construction will include the installation of a small kiosk.
In addition, we plan to have group paint over graffiti in a tunnel near Scribner Road.
Items to bring for the project: water for yourself, work gloves, and one or more of the following: rake, hoe, shovel, pruning shears, and tree trimming hand saw.
Location: Meet at St. Matthews Baptist Church, 2815 W Sunset Blvd. (parking available)
Contact: REI, 509-328-9900 or jhess@rei.com
You may register online at
www.gonzaga.edu/fishlaketrail
or contact REI at 509-328-9900.
18 May 2007
Last chance to submit comments on Seattle Bike Master Plan!
The deadline for comments will be 5 pm, May 18th, 2007. (comment period has been extended--original deadline was May 4th)
The Full Draft Plan is available at:
Draft Bicycle Master Plan.
Send your comments via email to walkandbike@seattle.gov
or by phone at 206-684-3902.
18 May 2007
Bike to Work/School Day
May is Bike to Work Month, National Bike to Work Week is May 14-18,
and Bike to Work/School Day is Friday May 18th.
Bike to Work Day/Bike to School Day is celebrated by rides, events, and acitivities all over the country.
Peruse the list
below to see what's happening in your part of Washington state:
Whatcom County/Bellingham
The 10th Annual Whatcom County/Bellingham Bike to Work and School Day is Friday, May 18 this year.
Hop on your bike as an alternative form of transportation on your way to work or school.
Free; no registration required. Celebration Stations throughout the region run by volunteers offer snacks,
prizes, giveaways and bike assistance.
For more information, contact Margaux Mellott, Whatcom County EverybodyBike Coordinator at
(360) 676-6974, margaux@wcog.org; or visit: www.everybodybike.com
Snohomish County
Snohomish County Bike to Work gives first-time bike commuters, die-hard
regulars and fair weather cyclists a chance to ride and celebrate
together. Visit www.communitytransit.org/go2/biketowork
to learn about
our Bike to Work Day Celebration Stations the morning of May 18, our
Bike to Work and Bike to School Challenges May 18-June 15 and the
classes that will help get your ready for those events.
King County/Seattle
Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation
is coordinating Bike to Work events in the Seattle area for the month of May.
Tacoma
Tacoma's events are listed at
cityoftacoma.org.
You can find more events listed on the
League of Amerian Bicyclists website
17 May 2007
Attention Walla Walla Cyclists! Ride with the Bicycle Alliance!
Join Bicycle Alliance of Washington board chair, Ralph Wessels, members of the
Transportation Improvement Board (they make decisions on funding bicycle projects!),
and local cycling advocates on a social ride in Walla Walla. The ride is scheduled for
Thursday, May 17 at 6:00 pm and will depart from Best Western Walla Walla Suites Inn at 7 E Oak Street.
Riders will return to the start point by 8 pm. Hungry cyclists can also join Ralph for dinner at a nearby
eatery afterward.
As a board member of the Bicycle Alliance and member of the TIB, Ralph is anxious to meet local cyclists
and hear what they have to say about cycling conditions in the Walla Walla region. Don't be afraid
to share the good, the bad and ugly with him!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
6:00-8:00 pm
Best Western Walla Walla Suites Inn
7 E Oak Street in Walla Walla
For more information, contact Louise McGrody.
16 May 2007
Ride of Silence
Date: Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Time: 7:00 pm
Where: At over 130 U.S. locations and four other countries (so far)
Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/19.3 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.
So far, rides have been planned for Everett, Tacoma, Olympia,
Spokane, Walla Walla,
and Seattle [note:
Seattle ride starts at 6:30pm]. Last year, there were at
least 8 rides in Washington State (over 700 riders participated in Seattle alone). For up-to-date
ride locations and contact info, check the
www.rideofsilence.org website.
If you are unfamiliar with the Ride of Silence, below is a brief history:
- In 2003 endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz was struck and killed by the mirror of a passing bus while cycling outside of Dallas. His good friend & Coach Chris Phelan organized a memorial ride in Dallas on May 18th, titled the Ride of Silence, a slow paced silent 12 mile ride to honor/remember his friend. In just a 10 day period, via email and word of mouth, over 1,000 cyclists attend. Chris thought he had closure.
- Word spread about the Ride. Chris began to get enquiries from cyclists in other cities on holding a Ride of Silence. A grassroots movement takes place.
- In 2004, Rides of Silence take place on May 18th at 7:00 PM in 50 cities in the U.S. and Canada. The Dallas Ride has 2,500 cyclists attending. It's written up in Bicycling magazine.
- Chris actively promotes the Ride. A board of directors is in place. A copyright is applied for the Ride of Silence name.
- In 2005, Rides of Silence take place on Wed. May 18th at 7:00 PM in over 100 U.S cities, 150+ worldwide, in 9 countries, on 4 continents. The Dallas ride again has 2,500 cyclists. The Dallas City Council issues a proclamation that May 18th 2005 is The Ride of Silence Day. The board applies for and receives non-profit status as an organization.
- In 2006, Rides of Silence take place in over 200 U.S cities, 250+ worldwide on Wed. May 17th at 7:00 PM, in 8 countries, across 5 continents. The Dallas ride has close to 3,000 cyclists. The Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists Andy Clarke and board member Preston Tyree attend the Dallas ride.
This is NOT a Critical Mass Ride. There are no shirts or items for sale, there's no fee or registration.
Each ride is approximately 10-12 miles long, is ridden at a 12 MPH pace, and is Silent.
It's not just a club ride. It's a ride for Moms, Dads, brothers & sisters, family & friends, beginning cyclists
to the racers, anyone who wishes to honor a fellow cyclist that has been killed or injured by a motorist
while out riding and to let them know they MUST Share the Road with us.
Participants are asked to wear a black arm band to honor a cyclist who's been killed, and/or a
red arm band to honor a cyclist that has been injured. The Ride's date purposely coincides with
National Bike Safety Month and Week.
12 May 2007
Chief Sealth Trail Grand Opening Celebration
10am - Noon, Saturday May 12th
Between Beacon Ave S and MLK Way, just north of Myrtle St
(near New Holly Campus)
The Chief Sealth Trail (CST) is a new multi-purpose trial in southeast Seattle. It will be the City's newest addition to the Regional
Trails Systemand will provide connections to the Mountains to Sound Greenway (via bike routes/lanes north of Beacon Avenue), and
Sound Transit light rail stations along Martin Luther King Jr. Way (MLK).
To learn more, please contact Katherine Bush at katherine.bush@seattle.gov or 206-233-1084.
May 2007
New Safe Routes to School website
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington and
Feet First have partnered to form the
Center for Safe Routes to School in
Washington State which is funded by a Transportation Enhancements grant
from the Washington State Department of Transportation. The combined
efforts of the organizations will provide extensive resources and
assistance to communities and schools around Washington. Check out the
new Safe Routes website for more information.
3 May 2007
Achieving a Bicycle-Friendly Yakima
Join representatives of the Yakima Valley Bicycle-Pedestrian Network and the Bicycle Alliance of Washington
in a brainstorm and discussion of how to create a bicycle-friendly Yakima Valley.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
6:30-8:30 pm
Harman Senior Center
101 North 65th Avenue in Yakima
(Southeast corner of Summitview Ave & North 65th)
For more information, contact Louise McGrody.
26 April 2007
Mountain Biking the Great Divide
Thursday 4/26/2007 7:00 PM
2490 miles. Solo. Self-supported. The ultimate mountain biking adventure.
Less than ten people each year participate in the
Great Divide Race,
but even fewer have completed it on a single speed mountain bike--here's your chance to hear
the story first-hand from one of those adventurers.
REI & the Bike Alliance of Washington are excited to welcome Kent Peterson,
who currently holds the record for a single-speed finish of the GDR.
Join us for an exciting look at this ultra-endurance mountain bike race through stories,
images, and tips on touring this beautiful wilderness route.
This event is FREE, but donations to the Bike Alliance of Washington will gladly be accepted.
Location: Seattle REI, 222 Yale Ave N
Contact: 206-223-1944
See you there!
16 April 2007
Susie Stephens Memorial Ride Apr 16th
Celebrate the life and passionate enthusiasm of
Susie Stephens
Monday, April 16, 5:30 PM
Bicycle Ride from
Occidental Park, Pioneer Square, Seattle.
[we're riding rain or shine]
Join the Bicycle Alliance of Washington as we celebrate Susie Stephens' life with a short ride on city streets,
bicycle trails and of course, tip back a "brew" in her memory. As a bicycle advocate and former
Executive Director of the Alliance, it was Susie's personal mission to use her skills and strengths to
create healthy communities. So long as we learn, change and grow, her passion and mission continues in us.
Join the celebration of a vibrant individual.
Bob Myrick, of the Tacoma Wheelmen Bicycle Club, adds these words of remembrance:
I can't be there, but I will be thinking of you. I have Susie's titanium Airborne touring bike in my dining room. It has been to New Zealand where some remaining portion of her ashes were scattered in the Bay of Islands. It has also traveled to Sun Valley, Idaho over Old Man Pass down south of Mt. Adams.
I also have Sue Gygax's Bridgestone XO 3 touring bike. It has been re-painted, tuned up and taken a few trips around Tacoma. It is a sweet ride and will get mountain bike tires and do some back roads in Washington, maybe New Zealand, too.
Both of these ladies have their names attached to the
Bicycle Safety Fund at the
Greater Tacoma Community Foundation.
I call it the Sue and Susie Fund. Proceeds are directed every year, forever, to the Bicycle Alliance of Washington.
You can even have a charitable gift annuity established to fund your retirement.
After you join Sue and Susie, the proceeds from your annuity can be directed to the Fund.
Susie Stephens, April 16, 1965 — March 21, 2002
[Info about Susie's "accident"]
April 2007
Seattle Bike Master Plan Event April 4th
Join Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels to celebrate the release of the City of Seattle's
Draft Bicycle Master Plan!
The City-hosted event takes place on Wednesday April 4th at
10:00AM at
Sturgus Park (904 Sturgus Ave S) which is located by
the Jose P. Rizal Bridge near 12th Ave. S and I-90. A big turnout is
important as a way of saying thanks and showing support for bicycling
facilities and bicycling as a transportation option.
For more information contact Pete Lagerwey at 206-684-5108.
March 2007
Bike Alliance coming to Yakima! - March 22nd
Join members of the
Transportation Improvement Board (they make decisions
on funding bicycle projects!) on a social ride in Yakima. The ride is
scheduled for Thursday, March 22 at 6:00 pm and will depart from Oxford
Suites, 1701 E Yakima Avenue. Riders will return to the start point by 7:45
pm. Interested cyclists can also join members for dinner at a nearby
eatery afterward.
Ralph Wessels, Board Chair of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington and member
of the TIB, will be on the ride. Ralph is anxious to meet local cyclists
and hear what they have to say about cycling conditions in the Yakima
Valley. Don't be afraid to share the good, the bad and the ugly with him!
March 2007
Bike Buddy Commute Consulting
Are you looking for advice about commuting by bicycle?
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington has the resources you need to select a route and learn
the basics of riding in traffic. The Alliance can also help you select a bike and learn basic repair skills.
Every Friday afternoon in March, April and May from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, Kent Peterson,
the Bicycle Alliance Commute Program Director, will answer any and all commuting questions
at the Seattle Bike Station, 311 3rd Avenue South..
Stop by to chat, get a bike map, learn how to fix a flat tire and learn more about commuting
in the Puget Sound area.
Get lots more info on bicycling for transportation on our
Transportation & Commuting page.
For bike commute advice anytime,
call the Bicycle Alliance at 206-224-9252 or email bikebuddy@bicyclealliance.org
March 2007
Friends Of The Burke-Gilman Trail
Annual Meeting - March 22nd
The meeting is from 7:00-8:30 PM at the Loyal Heights Community Center, 2101 NW 77th, in Seattle.
Representatives from the Seattle Department of Transportation will give a presentation about the
on-going design for the segment from 11th Ave NW to the Locks (the missing link)
and construction of NW 60th to Golden Gardens (possible groundbreaking this June).
The Cascade Bicycle Club will provide an update on their suit against the
City of Lake Forest Park's Ordinance that would make King County's ability to
improve the trail impracticable.
Volunteer opportunities will also be discussed.
For more information, email
friends@burkegilmantrail.org
February 2007
"Bridging the Gap" Bridge Dedication Feb 19
In just six short months the I-5 Bridge has gone from groundbreaking to ribbon-cutting!
Construction of the Chehalis-Western Trail I-5 Bridge got underway in early July and a
celebration of its completion is scheduled for Monday, February 19, 2007.
2pm Monday, February 19, 2007 Date Changed!
South Sound Center (behind Sears)
711 Sleater-Kinney Road SE, Lacey
For more information, contact Debbie Clemen, WSDOT Public Involvement Coordinator,
360-704-3204 clemend@wsdot.wa.gov
Need directions? Map to Chehalis Western Trail [pdf]
February 2007
Save the Date: February 6th, 2007
Transportation Lobby Day
Tuesday, February 6, 2007 - all day
110 11th Ave SE
(11th and Capitol Way)
Join with the Bicycle Alliance of Washington,
Transportation Choices,
Sierra Club,
Feet First,
and many other non-profits for the first annual healthy, transportation Lobby Day.
(The specifics of the day will be posted here in early January.)
Our priorities include:
- Increased funding and policies to support bike lanes and sidewalks - a complete streets umbrella package.
We'll pursue education and legislation opportunities.
- Educate legislators about carbon assessments and greenhouse gases.
- Mobility education. Change drivers' education to include bicycle, pedestrian and transit education.
- Work to revise State transportation goals with education and legislation.
- Additionally we'll support cell phone legislation.
We'll also be there to oppose any "bad" bills and support other legislation as needed.
Directions to The United Churches of Olympia
(located on the corner of Capitol Way and 11th Avenue SE).
More details on Lobby Day (including schedule for the day and transportation options), on our
Get Involved page.
Read this year's Legislative Priorities: Solutions for Healthier Communities [pdf]
January 2007
Attend Feet First's Open House on January 26!
Feet First helps people create more walkable communities.
The Bicycle Alliance has partnered with Feet First on several important transportation Issues.
Learn more about Feet First by attending their Open House January 26th:
When: from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Where: 2019 Third Ave Ste. 110, Seattle
Contact: 206.652.2310
2010
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| 2007
2006
2005
28 December 2006
White Center Open House
Give feedback on SW 98th Street plans:
King County is asking for input on how to make Southwest 98th Street more inviting for
pedestrians and bicycles between the White Center business district and the new
Greenbridge housing area.
The Road Services Division will host a public open house for the project on
Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 7-9 p.m. at:
White Center Heights Elementary School
10015 Sixth Ave. SW, Seattle
Get more details at: King County website
27 December 2006
Executive Director Search
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is looking for a new Executive Director!
The Application Process and Detailed Job Description can be found on our
Executive Search page.
Please direct all inquiries to:
RecruitED@bicyclealliance.org
Please refrain from calling the Bicycle Alliance office for more information about
the position.
1 December 2006
Eight Years and Moving On
At the November 17th board meeting, I announced my decision to
resign on or before April 2007. I started in November 1998 as the third Executive Director
of the organization, and look
forward to helping the board find my successor. I plan to travel
and bicycle in France in the late spring, come home
to garden, travel some more, and then look for part-time work to pay
our mortgage. It's been a great 8 years,
and I'll write more about my decision and plans over the next few months.
-- Barbara Culp
The board has formed a recruitment committee to find a replacement;
the job description and application timeline can be found on our
Executive Search page.
18 November 2006
Bike Master Plan Public Meetings
Preliminary Seattle Bike Master Plan to be unveiled. Come see and submit your comments.
Notes from the August BMP meeting are also viewable on Seattle DOT website.
Tuesday, December 5th
6:30pm - 9:00pm
Odd Fellows Hall (Ballard)
1706 NW Market
Thursday, December 7th
6:30pm - 9:00pm
Rainier Community Center
4600 Rainier Avenue South
For more info, please call 206-684-3902 or 684-ROAD,
Seattle Department of Transportation.
4 November 2006
14th Annual Auction THE BEST EVER!
Saturday, November 4th, 2006
The 14th Annual Bicycle Alliance Auction was a FANTASTIC Success!
The auction was attended by 440 people and we raised over $84,000!!!
Thanks to all the volunteers, donors, sponsors, and attendees!
26 October 2006
Willie Weir's Cycling Thailand/Laos Presentation
A Tale of Two's: Cycling Thailand and Laos
One is a constitutional monarchy, the other a communist state. One has all the conveniences of the modern world, the other has difficulties supplying water and electricity to its population. One is overrun with scooters, while the other still embraces the bicycle. One is over-touristed, the other barely visited.
Both are amazing travel destinations separated by the Mekong River.
Come and experiences these two countries from the seat of a bicycle with award-winning commentator and travel writer
Willie Weir.
When: 7pm Thursday, October 26
Where: REI Seattle
Cost: $5 donation benefits the Bicycle Alliance of Washington
October 2006
SR 520 Bridge Replacement Draft EIS
The SR520 bridge across Lake Washington has pretty much reached its useful lifespan and will be replaced.
Replacement options have been studied for years. Now in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA) and Washington State's Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), a draft Environmental Impact Statement has been
released. It evaluates a No Build alternative, a 4-lane alternative, and a 6-lane alternativewith design options
for the 6-lane alternative.
Public comment is being sought through October 31, 2006. You can provide input several ways:
- Attend a public hearing:
Seattle - 9/18/2006, 4-7PM, Museum of History & Industry, 2700 24th Ave East
Bellevue - 9/21/2006, 4-7PM, St Luke's Church, 3030 Bellevue Way NE.
- Online at www.SR520DEIScomments.com
- Via email at SR520comments@wsdot.wa.gov
- Snail mail to Paul Krueger, WSDOT Environmental Manager, 414 Olive Way #400, Seattle, WA 98101
Make sure you let them know you want bicycle access on the new SR 520 Bridge!
October 2006
Myrtle Edwards Trail Closure, October 2006
Access to Myrtle Edwards Park from Broad Street and Alaskan Way will be closed from Monday, October 2
through Friday, October 20, 2006, to accommodate the construction on the Seattle Art Museum's
Olympic Sculpture Park. There will be a temporary, one-day reopening of the pedestrian access on Saturday, October 7
for the Seattle Hospitality Oncology Fun Run.
During the temporary closure, pedestrians and bicyclists will be unable to reach Broad Street or Alaskan Way by
going through Elliott Bay Park and Myrtle Edwards Park. Parks advises users to use alternate routes during this
18 day period. To find alternate routes, please visit the
City of Seattle Website.
Contact: Dewey Potter, 206-684-7241, dewey.potter@seattle.gov
16 October 2006
Open House re: Overpass for Interurban in Lynnwood
The City of Lynnwood is hosting on open house on their plans for a new city center that would redevelop Lynnwood's core. The plan includes improvements to the Interurban Trail - building an overpass across 44th Avenue W and an extension of the trail on 200th Street SW.
Citizens have a chance to comment on the trail plans at the open house scheduled for:
Tuesday October 24, 2006 from 3 to 8 pm
Lynnwood Convention Center
3711 196th Street SW.
Lynnwood, WA
The convention center is a few blocks away from the Interurban Trail and the Lynnwood Transit Center,
with easy access by bike or bus.
5 October 2006
Kickoff Meeting for the Friends of Fish Lake Trail
Kickoff Meeting for the Friends of Fish Lake Trail
Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 5:00
Community Building
35 W Main Street in downtown Spokane
We need your help to get this group rolling! Our discussion will include
organizational structure for the group, relationship with Parks Department,
walks/bike rides of the corridor, name for the group, next steps, and
project update. Please RSVP to
Louise McGrody if you plan to attend!
Organized by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington and
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition.
5 October 2006
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition Reception
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition Reception
Wednesday, October 11, 2006, 6:30-8:00pm
Community Building
35 W Main Street in Downtown Spokane
Celebrate the Coalition's completion of a trails plan for Spokane County
and find out about their plans for future projects like the Fish Lake Trail
at this free event! Includes a silent auction. For more information,
visit us online at www.inlandnorthwesttrails.org
or call
509-435-1270 with questions about the reception.
23 September 2006
REI Spokane's 20th Anniversary Celebration
Join the Bicycle Alliance of Washington at REI Spokane's 20th anniversary
celebration this Saturday evening! Drop by our booth and learn more about
the Fish Lake Trail project and how you can ensure that this trail gets
completed. REI is providing financial support to help us create a
"friends" group to support this critical project.
REI Spokane 20th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, September 23, 6:00-8:00pm
1125 N Monroe Street in Spokane
26 September 2006
Seattle's Ship Canal Trail Open House
Seattle's Ship Canal Trail Open House
Tuesday, September 26, 6:30-8:30pm
Queen Anne Community Center, Room 1
1901 1st Ave W in Seattle
This is the long-awaited westward extension of the Ship Canal Trail to the
Emerson Street path near Fisherman's Terminal. This is an opportunity to
view SDOT's plan to make the connection and talk with staff. Brief
presentation at 7:30pm.
Sept 2006
Auction Volunteers Needed!
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington needs volunteers for our annual auction!
This year's event is on Saturday, November 4 at Seattle Center's
Exhibition Center. We need volunteers to help set up the venue during the
day, and we need volunteers to work during the event. Volunteer roles
during the auction include: registration/check-in, bussing tables, closers
and runners, cashiers/check-out, bid catchers, and more.
Email Kristen Wisehart, volunteer coordinator, if you'd like to help! You can reach her at
send Kristen email
Sept 2006
Call for Auction Items
You can donate items right now by filling out the
Online Donation Form.
We need donations large and small to make this event a success!
Popular items include handcrafted items (quilts, handknits, woodworks, pottery, jewelry, etc.),
homebaked goodies, vacation getaways, gift and theme baskets, retail and restaurant gift certificates,
tickets to sporting and cultural events, wellness services (massages, spa treatments, acupuncture, etc.),
outdoor recreation activities, unique experiences, outdoor gear, and much more!!
The 14th Annual Auction will be held Saturday, November 4th, at the
Seattle Center Exhibition Hall.
Complete details at our
Auction Page.
See what items have already been donated:
Auction Item List.
12 August 2006
SEATTLE BICYCLE MASTER PLAN PUBLIC MEETING
Come share your opinions and ideas:
August 29, 2006
6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Gould Hall, U of W Campus
3949 15th Ave NE, Seattle
Bike parking on the north and west sides of the building
Whether you can make it to the meeting or not, please fill out the
SEATTLE BICYCLE MASTER PLAN ON-LINE QUESTIONNAIRE.
One component of public involvement for the Seattle Bicycle Master Plan is
this online questionnaire that will help
SDOT understand how they can make your
trip safer and more convenient by bike. Please help us by taking a few
minutes to answer these brief questions.
See SDOT's Flyer [PDF] announcing the meeting.
Summer 2006
Great Ways you can support bicycling this Summer:
RIDE Rapsody August 26-27. More info and Register online at
www.rapsodybikeride.com.
JOIN Flexcar at www.flexcar.com
and enter the promo code "v75friend" for Bicycle Alliance.
Mileage you earn helps our advocacy staff on trips to Olympia.
See more info on this Flexcar offer on our
Membership page.
DONATE to our auction: You can donate RIGHT NOW with our
Online Auction Donation Form
The auction will be November 4th at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall.
SHOW your love for bicycling even when you drive: Buy a Share the Road license plate.
Over 1150 sold to date.
Complete details at our
Share the Road License Plate Info page
RENEW today. Your membership is the key to our success. Join or renew online at our
Membership page.
ENJOY a bike-friendly Washington this summer from all of us.
10 August 2006
Hood Canal Bridge Construction Update
HOOD CANAL CONSTRUCTION 2006 - 2009
GOOD NEWS: The Hood Canal Bridge is in the process of being rebuilt. In 2009 it will be completed with
two 12 foot travel lanes and 8 foot shoulders. This will be a HUGE improvement over the existing bridge.
The west half of the bridge has been mostly completed and now has 8 foot shoulders.
The east half of the bridge still has narrow and dirty shoulders (about .3 of a mile long).
Follow these precautions while riding the bridge: Take the lane, ride together if a group,
and be visible. And thank David McCulloch of the
Port Townsend Bicycle Association
for his tireless efforts on behalf of cyclists on the Peninsula.
For more information check the following link:
WSDOT Bridge Construction Page
BAD NEWS for the future: In May-June of 2009 the bridge will be closed for 6 to 8 weeks and a passenger
ferry will operate between Port Gamble and Shine. Check the
WSDOT Bridge Construction Page
for current information.
15 July 2006
Volunteer at Fremont's Tour de Fat
Join us for Tour de Fat, August 12th, a Seattle-style celebration bringing together all
facets of cycling and alternative transportation.
It's a beer festival pouring Fat Tire beer to raise funds for the Bicycle Alliance, but it's so much more too!
Tour de Fat includes a parade in the morning, live music, a vintage bike show, bike games for kids and adults, juggling, costumes, and more.
We need several dozen volunteers to make this event successful. Volunteers are needed for the following shifts:
- Set-up the beer garden, booth tents, banners, etc 7:30-10:30am
- Morning ride registration 8:00-10:00am
- Beer selling 10:30am-1:30pm or 1:30-4:30pm
- Beer selling and tear down 2:30-5:30pm.
- Merchandise selling 10:30am-1:30pm or 1:30-5:30pm
- Break down event 5:30-7:30pm
If you're able to volunteer, send an e-mail to
Barb or phone her at 206-224-9252
indicating your desired shift.
Complete Tour de Fat details on our
Rides & Events Page
10 July 2006
Legislative Committee meeting
ATTEND the Statewide Issues and Legislative Committee meeting on Saturday, July 22
to help establish our legislative priorities.
Meeting at 311 Third South, 10:00AM - 2:00PM. Bicycle clubs, advocates,
and interested folks encouraged to attend.
6 July 2006
RAMROD Ticket Sold!
Bicycle Alliance of Washington received one ticket for this year's
RAMROD [Ride Around Mount Rainier in One Day] scheduled for July 27. An online auction was announced
in the Bicycle Paper
and bidding started at $80. After weeks of escalating bids, the ticket was claimed
by Lillian Wu, who bid a stunning $410! Congratulations Lillian and thanks
for supporting the Bicycle Alliance.
23 May 2006
Fremont Bridge Closures (Seattle)
Beginning May 22, the Fremont Bridge will be reduced to one vehicle lane in
each direction and one sidewalk that must be shared by bicyclists and
pedestrians traveling in both directions. These changes will last for
approximately 10 months. There will also be periods of full closure of the
bridge during the month of June. For specific details of June bridge
closures and for additional information about the Fremont Bridge project,
please visit SDOT website.
You can also
sign up for email alerts regarding the Fremont Bridge.
17 May 2006
Improvements planned for East Lake Sammamish Parkway
East Lake Sammamish Parkway Open House
Wednesday, May 24, 6:30-8:30pm
Inglewood Junior High
24120 NE 8th Street in Sammamish
The City of Sammamish is planning safety improvements along the East Lake
Sammamish Parkway from NE Inglewood Hill Road north to 187th Ave NE
(Redmond city limits). Safety improvements could include bike lanes,
pedestrian walkway, and new left-turn lanes. Some Parkway neighbors are
grumbling about the bike lanes. They claim that there are few bike
commuters along the Parkway and that the newly opened trail can serve
cyclists instead of the Parkway. They don't recognize that cyclists will
use the Parkway to connect to the trail, that fast bike commuters, racers
and event riders in training prefer the direct Parkway route to the slower
trail route. Please give the City your 2 cents if you want to see bike
lanes remain a part of the corridor!
Can't make the meeting? You can
submit comments by email
17 May 2006
Improvements Underway for the Burke Gilman Trail
King County is working to improve a two mile segment of the Burke Gilman Trail in Lake Forest Park, from NE 145th Street to Log Boom Park.
A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 6:30 p.m. at Lake Forest Park Elementary School. More
details at King County Parks Website
17 May 2006
Call for Auction Items
You can donate items right now by filling out the
Online Donation Form.
More details on our
Auction Page
15 May 2006
"Bikecentennial" Birthday Bash
Join Adventure Cycling Association, the nation's largest bicycling organization,
in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of '76 Bikecentennial, the inaugural ride on the
Oregon to Virginia TransAmerica Bicycle Trail. Celebrate with catered barbeque and bike ride,
June 21st, Kent KOA.
Complete Bikecentennial Anniversary Bash Details
May 2006
May is Bike-to-Work Month!
And, Friday May 19th is Bike-to-Work Day. If you already commute, this is nothing special—but if
you are thinking of forgoing your four-wheeler for a bicycle, this this the time to start! Check
out our Bike Buddy Program to get personalized
mentoring from experienced commuters. We also have lots of tips on our
Transportation & Commuting page.
Bicycle Surcharge waived on Bike-to-Work day!
Kirk Robinson of the Squeaky Wheels
advocacy group on Bainbridge Island worked
with Washington State Ferries
to waive the bicycle surcharge for May 19th as an
incentive to get new riders to try the bike/ferry commute. The surcharge waiver
applies only to the following routes:
- Seattle — Bainbridge Island
- Seattle — Bremerton
- Fauntleroy — Vashon
- Fauntleroy — Southworth
17 May 2006
Ride of Silence
Date: Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Time: 7:00 pm
Where: At over 120 U.S. locations and eight other countries
Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/19.3 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.
So far, rides have been planned for Everett, Renton, Seattle, Silverdale, Tacoma, Vancouver, Walla Walla, and Wenatchee. For
ride locations and contact info, check the
www.rideofsilence.org website.
10 May 2006
Safe Routes to School program expanding!
Additional funding has been awarded to the Bicycle Alliance to
support long-term Safe Routes programs. Read more details on the
Safe Routes News
page.
3 May 2006
Website Overhaul
We just did a major overhaul of our website.
Tell us what you think
April 2006
Bicycle Commuting Workshops
FREE Bicycle Commuting Workshops at Bikestation Seattle (Bicycle Alliance of Washington)
Thursdays at Noon
April 6: Bike Commuter Resources: maps, mass transit, lockers, and Bike Buddies
April 20: Commuter Bike Considerations: riding to work is not the Tour de France
May 4: Safety First: tips and techniques for riding in traffic
May 18: Clothes for Commuting: can you be functional and fashionable?
June 1: Night Riding: safe riding after sundown
June 15: Not Your Ordinary Bicycle: recumbents, fixed gears and other interesting bicycles
RSVP: info@bicyclealliance.org
For notes from these workshops and more tips on commuting, check our
Transportation & Commuting page.
2010
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| 2008
| 2007
| 2006
2005
Fall 2005
Bicycle Alliance T-Shirts, Mugs & Bike bags!
You can be stylish and support the Bicycle Alliance with our new
T-shirts featuring the Bicyle Alliance or the Share the Road license plate designs. You can also get
the logo on mugs, tote bags, and bike bags. A portion of the proceeds goes to support the Bicycle Alliance.
Available for purchase online at
Cafe Press.
Fall 2005
Safe Routes to Schools
The Bicycle Alliance received a $48,000 grant from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission to train and directly assist at least 15 schools to plan and implement safe routes to school programs. While we are working state wide, the focus areas are the Spokane, Kitsap County, Moses Lake, Wenatchee, and Olympia regions. To find out more contact Dave Janis at daveja@bicyclealliance.org or at 206/224.9252.
Visit our new Safe Routes to School web site.
Fall 2005
3 WINS FOR BICYLING IN WASHINGTON!
Great news for anyone who rides a bicycle in Washington. Thanks to the tireless efforts of
advocates all across Washington three bills passed the 2005 legislature that will help make
bicycling safer for all users. Read all about it: Three Bike Bills for Washington
October 2005
Colonnade Park Groundbreaking
Seattle gets the country's first and only sheltered, urban mountain bike trail
system! Learn more about the new skills park Colonnade Park Announcement.
15 August 2005
Dasani Blue Bikes Program Comes to Washington!
Nifty Bikes for free public use -- What a great idea!
Read about the Community Bicycle Program
10 August 2005
New Transportation Bill Will Help More Americans Walk, Bike
The new federal transportation bill, SAFETEA-LU, provides more funding for bicycling
and walking than ever before! Read about the details at:
www.americabikes.org
2004
Hood Canal Construction Information
The Hood Canal Bridge is in the process of being rebuilt. When construction is
completed, in 2009, there will be two 12 foot travel lanes and 8 foot shoulders in each direction.
Read more in our Hood Canal Construction Briefing.
29 April 2003
WSDOT updates their website with Bicycle Information
Read the announcement about a new WA
State Bicycle Information web site for all kind of useful information
Fish Lake Trail Receives Federal Stimulus Funding
Improved Bikestation Amenities Are Now Available!
The Bicycle Alliance takeover of Bikestation management in February has greatly improved the services available to customers. Thirty new lockers have been installed (thanks to a generous donation and volunteer work), and the bathroom and changing area are now accessible 24/7. There is also a shop stand, for minor bike repair, which has already come in handy for one early morning commuter.
The lockers are available to customers with service plans and require a $10 key deposit. Come down and take a tour! Also, take advantage of Bicycle Alliance member's $20 discount when signing up!
Berentson Bridge (Twin Bridges) Safety Project Completion
A major milestone has been completed to improve bicycle safety at the Berentson Bridges on SR20 in Skagit County. The projects were funded through Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) safety initiatives, designed by WSDOT staff with help and advice from the local cycling community. Full jersey barrier segregation of the bike-ped two-way crossing was completed this winter. Improved signage just installed at the bridge will help cyclists safely navigate the underpass system to the segregated bike lane when traveling eastbound. Two new bicycle crossings, one at the Best Road/SR20 intersection and the other at West March Point Road/SR20 intersection have been installed and will soon be activated.
This WSDOT traffic safety project was generated by a proposal from the Active Communities Task Force (ACT), a healthy lifestyles non-motorized sub-committee to the Skagit Regional Transportation Planning Organization. Its purpose was to improve non-motorized safety at a key point in Skagit County where two national bike routes and several inter-county bike routes intersect. The famed Pacific Coast Trail (from White Rock, B.C., to San Diego, CA) and Northern Tier Trail (from Anacortes, WA to Bar Harbor, ME) both use this bridge, resulting in a lot of through bicycle touring in summer months. Regionally, the bridge is also very important, with the Coast Millennium, Cascade to Coast and Coast Salish regional trails all adding to the bike traffic.
The project also brings visibility to a regional effort to give bike routes in Skagit County a comprehensive signing and logical numbering system. Route numbers and arrows on signs placed at a cyclist's viewing height clarify the bike route and show mileage to the next major city at major route junctions. The route signage also informs cyclists of lower traffic volume parallel routes such as the Tommy Thompson Trail, a paved off-grade, non-motorized trail that crosses Fidalgo Bay into downtown Anacortes. Kiosk signs at the bridge offer local bike route information to passing cyclists to further inform and hopefully enhance cycling choices for visitors to the area.
The project was the result of persistent planning and efforts by ACT and WSDOTS proactive recognition that there was a real need for this non-motorized highway amenity. The project involved getting support and buy-in from state, county, tribal, municipal and bicycling organizations both with ACT support and finally through WSDOT's project management and planning group to ensure that the neeeds of the cycling public were brought together in a well coordinated plan. The cooperation among the regional bodies proves once again that thinking globally, acting locally can make a difference in the safety and quality of ride for all cyclists. It is one of several innovations ACT has worked successfully with WSDOT to help improve and enhance transportation choices in the Skagit County region.
BAW Website Redesign RFP
Staff Changes at the Bicycle Alliance
Two recent staff changes have occurred at the Bicycle Alliance:
After nine years as Membership Manager, Mark Canizaro has left the Bicycle Alliance. During his tenure, Mark demonstrated his passion for bicycle advocacy and helped the organization grow and maintain its membership. We appreciate the many other successes he helped us achieve. One in particular is the cadre of dedicated volunteers that worked thousands of hours on mailings, the yearly auction, and the many other tasks they did with a smile. We wish Mark the very best in his future endeavors.
We also want to welcome JoAnn Yoshimoto, our Development Director. A veteran fundraising professional, she has been involved with a wide variety of organizations, including youth development, healthcare, environment, and cultural institutions since 1977 as donor, staff, board member, and consultant with The Alford Group. JoAnn is also an avid cycle tourist. When you stop by please be sure and say hello!
Bicycle Alliance at REI Cyclefest
Drop by REI during one of these Cyclefest events and say Hi! to the Bicycle Alliance of Washington. We will have an informational table at the following store locations:
Apr 4 : 11am - 2pm Tacoma REI
Apr 11 : 11am - 2pm Alderwood REI
Apr 18 : 11am - 2pm Redmond REI
Annual Meeting of the Ferry County Rail Trail Partners
The Ferry County Rail Trail Partners is holding its annual meeting :
Sunday, March 29 at 2:30pm
Old Republic Fire Hall
26 Clark Ave, Republic
The Ferry County Rail Trail Partners are working to preserve a 28-mile rail corridor between San Poil and the Canadian border for the future economic benefit of Ferry County and create a nonmotorized trail.
Legislative Update: We're Busy in Olympia! [Updated March 28]
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington has a full plate in Olympia for the 2009 legislative session. Our Legislative & Statewide Issues Committee, our lobbyist, and BAW members are working to advance several bicycle-friendly bills.
However, the dire State fiscal situation this year is having an impact on all legislation. Any hint of a fiscal impact is cause for great concern and can cause otherwise worthwhile legislation to die an early death. The BAW is working to minimize the fiscal impact of all our proposed legislation. We have agreed to some revisions that will allow our legislative initiatives to move forward when fiscal concerns have been raised.
Ongoing vigilance of "our" legislation is needed. As BAW Board President Kristin Kinnamon stated in the recent Bike Bites E-Newsletter, "We want BAW members to continue to contact their State Representatives and State Senators and ask them to support our bills."
Below is a summary of key legislation that we are supporting. Check the Legislation Page for additional details and updates. The "HB" and "SB" numbers refer to the House Bill and Senate Bill numbers that pertain to each proposed bill. Click on the bill number to get the most up-to-date status.
Still alive:
Three Foot Clearance (HB 1491/SB 5335)A bill drafted by BAW lobbyist Michael Temple and Brian Faller requires a minimum of three (3) feet of clearance when a vehicle overtakes and passes pedestrians or bicycles. The bill also allows vehicles to cross the center line to pass a bicycle if it is safe to do so.
This legislation received support as an important safety educational tool by the Washington Department of Transportation, the Washington State Patrol, and by other law-enforcement groups.
Status: Passed by the House; referred to Senate Transportation Committee.
Scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Committee on Transportation at 1:30 PM, April 1. (Subject to change)
Safe Routes to School (HB 1793/SB 5743)
The BAW, Cascade Bicycle Club, Feet First, and several other organizations are members of the Childhood Obesity Prevention Coalition which has been working to advance a "safe routes" bill. This legislation would increase dedicated State funding for Safe Routes to School grants and make other changes to the program.
Progress has been made to move this important legislation forward, however, due to concerns associated with funding and other aspects of the program, legislation will likely not be adopted this session. With all the good ground-work accomplished to date, and with advocacy efforts continuing in the months ahead, this bill will hopefully be able to move to adoption next year. Substantial work "selling" the bill will, however, be required for success.
Status: PASSED on the House Floor March 11: yeas, 83; nays, 13; referred to Senate Transportation Committee.
Scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Committee on Transportation at 1:30 PM, March 31. (Subject to change)
Liz McNett Crowl (far left), BAW board member from Mt Vernon, provided testimony in support of the Safe Routes to School legislation. The bill had a hearing before the House Transportation Committee on February 24.
Dead bills:
Construction Zone Accommodation (HB 1535)Ralph Wessels, BAW Legislative Committee and Tacoma Wheelmen Bicycle Club member, drafted legislation to require compliance with existing standards so that people using wheelchairs, bikes, or their feet are considered when construction or maintenance closures & detours are necessary.
Some fiscal objections have been raised to date on this proposed legislation.
Status: Did not make it out of House Transportation Committee.
Traffic Actuated Signals (HB 1403)
Vulnerable User Law (SB 5838)BAW Legislative Committee and Capital Bicycling Club member Brian Faller drafted legislation to require new traffic signals to detect bicycles and motorcycles at vehicle-activated traffic control signals and also requires needed enhancements at existing signals when upgrade construction occurs.
We added "subject to funding" and other revisions, including a system to file complaints about specific signals, to address fiscal impact concerns raised by the Washington Department of Transportation, The Association of Washington Cities, and others. Other than fiscal concerns, no objections have been raised to date on this proposed legislation. We have received substantial support from The Washington Road Riders, a motorcycle group, as well as other organizations such as Cascade Bicycle Club to move this legislation forward.
Status: Passed House Transportation Committee. Didn't make it out of the Rules Committee.
The Cascade Bicycle Club has been working on an important bill related to vehicular assault, SB 5838, which allows for misdemeanor criminal charge in crashes causing serious injury or death when not caused by use of alcohol or drugs. This bill will help fill the gray area that allows police and district attorneys to charge motorists with more than mere traffic fines when they injure or kill cyclists. Washington cyclists are urged to contact their State Senators to support bringing this bill to vote.
Status: Did not make it out of Senate Transportation Committee.
27 March 2009
Board Ballot and New Board Appointment
The latest edition of The Advocate will soon be in your mailbox and it contains a ballot with a slate of Board candidates. Be sure to return your completed ballot by March 27!
In addition to the Board candidates being voted on, John Whitlow has been appointed to fill the unexpired term of former Board member Molly Johnson, who recently moved to California. John, a Bainbridge Island resident, is an architect for Collins Woerman in Seattle and a bike or motorcycle commuter. He and his wife are active with the West Sound Cycling Club as ride leaders and volunteers. John is coordinating West Sound's support for RAPSody (Ride Around Puget Sound) this year. He has served as the chairperson for the Washington State Ferries Community Advisory Group for Winslow. He became involved with the Bicycle Alliance to promote bike infrastructure, commuting alternatives, public education and safety. In addition to his service on the Board, John is a member of BAW's new Education Committee.
19 March 2009
Annual Meeting of the Woodland Greenway Trail Association
Celebrate the 2008 accomplishments of the Woodland Greenway Trail Association and review plans for 2009!
Thursday, March 19,2009
6:30-8:30 PM
Lacey Community Center in Woodland Creek Park
6729 Pacific Ave SE
Lacey
19 March 2009
Annual Meeting of the Friends of the Burke-Gilman Trail
An evening of Questions and Answers about the Burke Gilman Trail Missing Link and other alt transportation topics in Seattle with Grace Crunican, Director of the Seattle Department of Transportation
Thursday March 19, 2009
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Northwest Senior Center in Ballard
5429 - 32nd Avenue NW
SeattleThis is your chance to ask some of the same old questions and even some new ones. Let's work to get some real answers and better yet, some action.
10-12 March 2009
National Bike Summit
Bicycle advocates from around the country will converge in Washington DC in March for the National Bike Summit. This year's Summit will focus on making a powerful case for expanding federal support for bicycling - for active transportation and recreation.
The Bicycle Alliance will be at the National Bike Summit to represent you and we are making appointments with our members in Congress. For more information, contact Dave Janis at the Bike Alliance or check with the League of American Bicyclists.
2009
Bicycle Commuter Tax Provision: Update
After 7 long years of work by Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) the Bicycle Commuter Tax Provision finally passed by being attached as an amendment to HR1425, now Public Law 110-343: The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (The Bush Administration's Sept 08 Stimulus bill). It went into effect January 1, 2009.
This provision allows employers to offer a transportation benefit package of $20 a month to bicycle commuters. (The original bill called for $80 and Blumenauer promises to try to increase the limit to $80 in the future.)
A cyclist may receive $20 for every month in which a bicycle is used for "the substantial portion of the travel" between their residence and place of employment. It is a substitute for any transit or parking benefits and may not be combined with them. If you have a multi-modal commute (bus/bike or train/bike) you currently have to choose which benefit to receive transit or bicycle. Representatives Blumenauer with encouragement from the League of American Bicyclists is also hoping to change that in the future.
The $240 annual benefit may ONLY be used for
- the purchase of a bicycle
- bicycle improvements,
- bicycle repair or
- bicycle storage.
This Benefit may be offered by an employer as either a pre-tax exclusion, or as a subsidy.
- If it is offered as a subsidy, the employer pays the full cost.
- If it is offered as an exclusion, the employee pays the full cost, but the employer deducts it from the employee's gross pay before taxes are taken out, thus saving both the employee and the employer the income tax, SSI and FICA taxes on the exclusion.
All offices from single person offices to multinational corporations are eligible. Self employed workers are not eligible.
The League of American Bicyclists advocated for this provision, is advocating for improving it and is tracking the current status of the law. Keep an eye on their website for more information on how this new law can benefit you.
Accor Services is a company that provides transit benefit checks for employers. They have developed a bicycle voucher program which employers can subscribe. The vouchers are given to the employee as a transportation benefit and are redeemable at bike shops and bike storage facilities such as Bikestation Seattle.
It is likely that other providers of transportation benefit and pay check handling services will soon have voucher programs as well.
24 Feb 2009
Transportation Advocacy Day - Olympia
On Transportation Advocacy Day Feb. 24 we meet in Olympia to learn about legislative issues, meet with your legislators and network with other advocates.
Tuesday February 24
9am - 5pm
Trinity Lutheran Church
2020 Franklin St. SE
OlympiaThe Bicycle Alliance has an ambitious legislative agenda and we'll also be supporting our partners in pushing for :
- Longterm Funding For Transportation Solutions
- Safe Routes To School
- Transit Oriented Communities
- Reducing Global Warming
- Safety For All
Talking points and details to come. If you are planning on attending you can Register online now. Carpool, take the train, even bike down for the day (it's been done!).
Liz McNett Crowl (far left), BAW board member from Mt Vernon, provided testimony in support of the Safe Routes to School legislation. The bill had a hearing before the House Transportation Committee on February 24.
Early Feb 2009
BAW Advocates for Legislative Agenda around the State
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington has been talking to elected officials from around the State about its legislative agenda. BAW Acting Director Dave Janis and Board Member Eileen Hyatt met recently with Spokane City Councilmember Richard Rush to explain how our legislation, if passed, would benefit cyclists at the local level.
We have also provided testimony at recent public hearings in Olympia. Read more about the bills we are supporting under the Legislative Issues section of our website.
8 Feb 2009
Bikes on and off Buses in the Ride Free Area!
Great News! Thanks to the work of BAW and other advocates, King County Metro has finally changed the restrictive rules about bicycle loading in the ride free area.
Starting February 8th you will be allowed to load and unload your bicycle in downtown Seattle on surface streets.
The only time bicycle loading/unloading will continue to be restricted is Monday through Friday (6 - 9am and 3 - 7pm). At those times, cyclists may load and unload bicycles only at each particular route's first or last stop in the ride free area.
Bicycles may be loaded and unloaded at all stations of the Seattle Downtown Transit Tunnel during any hours the tunnel is open.
2 February 2009
Bikestation Changeover Happening Now
Bicycle Alliance of Washington has taken over management of Bikestation Seattle. A new cardkey access system will be installed as of February 2nd. Your current fobs will work until then (9am Feb 2nd). Current Bikestation members should have received a notification in the mail and a new card access key (they were mailed Jan 8th).
Read about new service plan options on the Bikestation Page.
Note: in conjunction with this expansion of our services, the Bicycle Alliance offices have moved next door, to 309A 3rd Avenue South. Our mailing address is unchanged.
February 2009
New Board Members, Leaders
Per our bylaws, members of the Bicycle Alliance vote on our board of directors. Our nominating committee is currently working on a slate of candidates to present for election. Please watch your mail and email for more information in March.
Meanwhile, the board itself has elected new officers for 2009. Kristin Kinnamon is the new president of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington. Kristin first joined the board in 2005 and has been chair of the BAW Legislative and Statewide Issues Committee since that time. She is the past president and an active member of B.I.K.E.S. Club of Snohomish County. Through her job at Community Transit, Kristin has organized Snohomish County Bike to Work events since 2001, growing the event from 150 participants the first year to 1,500 in 2008. Kristin been a B.I.K.E.S. representative on the Ride Around Puget Sound organizing committee since the BAW benefit ride began in 2004. Kristin and her partner live in Marysville with one car, nine bikes and a well-used bus pass.
Long-time board member Thom Skaanland has joined the BAW Executive Committee as second vice president. Thom has been on the board since 1998, and has served on the executive committee in the past as secretary. He is looking forward to focusing on BAW membership expansion and retention. He recently took an early retirement offer from Weyerhaeuser, where he was an environmental compliance manager. Thom and his wife, a nurse, look forward to spending more time on their tandem, and to traveling and providing service through medical mission work. They live in Enumclaw.
Past-president Ralph Wessels, a Tacoma Wheelmen from Gig Harbor, continues to serve on the board and will work with the BAW executive committee in a mentoring role. King Cushman of Seattle, Eileen Hyatt of Spokane and Mark Thomas of Redmond all continue their important roles as members of the BAW executive committee.
The new chair of the Legislative and Statewide Issues Committee is Bob Duffy, a longtime BAW volunteer and new board member in 2008. Bob lives in Lacey where he is a member of Capital Bicycle Club. He is retired from the Department of Ecology.
28 January 2009
Kirkland: Comment on Active Transportation Plan
Kirkland's next Transportation Commission meeting is Wednesday January 28 at 6:00 in the Council Chambers. Note that Public comment on the Active Transportation Plan is scheduled for 7:00.
Information about the state of the streets report is available from last Tuesday's council packet although the item was postponed.
Information about the ferry is available on the PSRC website. Both the full report and the executive summary are available there.
A more detailed summary of comments on the Draft Active Transportation Plan will be available on the city website on Monday, but here's a brief list:
- Ped. wayfinding for paths and connections
- Active transportation to school -include other ages
- Bicycle parking should be improved outside of downtown too
- Clear up ambiguity about who is responsible for sidewalk maintenance
- Put more weight on Transit/School less on Park/Commercial
- Better address Seniors and those with limited mobility
- Add connection to the water on bike network; Market Neighborhood
- Add water trail section
- Include Synder's corner park
- Make sure the school district has seen the plan
- Determine how to include Neighborhood Plan bicycle and pedestrian routes
- Draft mark-ups from citizens
- Add 90th Street connection over I-405
This information provided by:
David Godfrey, P.E.
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works Department
(425) 587-3865
DGodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
22 Jan 2009
Come share your ideas for Chambers Lake Park and Trail!
The City of Olympia is holding a workshop to gather public input for the development of a 46-acre property into the Chambers Lake Park and Loop Trail. This project could include connections to the Chehalis Western Trail and nearby neighborhoods.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Olympia Christian Reform Church
2121 Log Cabin Road SEUnable to attend the workshop? You can submit written comments to:
Jonathon Turlove
Associate Planner
Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation
222 Columbia St. NW
Olympia, WA 98501
360.753.8068
jturlove@ci.olympia.wa.us
www.olympiawa.gov/cityservices/parBackground: Here's a map and description from the Regional Trails Plan.
Chamber's Lake Loop Trail - The City of Olympia's Parks, Arts and Recreation Plan (2002) includes a proposed three mile recreational trail around the western shore of Chamber's Lake. By itself, the loop would not be a regionally significant trail, but it could provide large numbers of neighboring residents access to the CWT. For this connection to be effective, a short east-west section of 27th Avenue/Wiggins Road (see Map 6) will require a bicycle or pedestrian facility to provide trail users safe direct access to the loop. The Chamber's Lake Loop Trail would provide CWT users another recreation opportunity in the vicinity of the Chamber's Lake Trailhead. This loop is part of the City's Open Space Network. The City has an easement on the north end of the lake, but additional easements or ROW is required to develop this proposed trail. The actual alignment of this trail has not yet been determined and may vary from what is represented on the map. Part of this trail may course through wetlands and would be developed with low impact trail construction techniques. See Map 6 for a closer view of the proposed trail.
Jan-Mar 2009
Willie Weir at REI to benefit Bicycle Alliance
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is hosting Willie Weir's popular travel presentations at REI's Seattle flagship store this winter.
Mark Your Calendars!
Thursday, January 8
Colombia & Venezuela: Bicycling Beyond the HeadlinesThursday, January 22
A Tale of Twos: Cycling Thailand & LaosWednesday, February 4
The Bad Road: Cycling Turkey Cancelled!Wednesday, February 25
Cycling Cuba: So Close & Yet So Far AwayThursday, March 12
Fear & Hospitality: Cycling South AfricaThursday, March 26
I am God: Cycling India
Come out and see Willie's latest show about Colombia & Venezuela or see a presentation you've missed over the years. Better yet, make a date with your cycling buddies to see the whole series. You'll be inspired to get out and ride!
All shows at 7pm at the flagship REI store in Seattle. $5
21 Jan 2009
EBAG Invites Bike Alliance to January Meeting
Louise McGrody and Kristin Kinnamon (image, right) of the Bicycle Alliance will be speaking to the Edmonds Bicycle Advisory Group (EBAG) at their January 21 meeting. She will discuss strategies for effective bike advocacy at the local and state levels and provide an update on the BAW's efforts.
The Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group is a group of citizens that, for 14 years, has worked with Edmonds and surrounding communities to promote the safe and enjoyable use of municipal facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians. EBAG has been instrumental in the creation of bicycle lanes, trails, signage, bicycle parking, route maps and safety improvements.
The group meets the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30pm at the Frances Anderson Center, 700 Main Street (next to the library) in Edmonds. Guests are welcome. For more information: www.edmondsbicyclegroup.org.
15 Jan 2009
Name the Trail: North Spokane Corridor
NEW PEDESTRIAN-BIKE TRAIL NEEDS YOUR HELP TO FIND A NAME
Public input is being sought by the Washington State Department of Transportation for naming the new pedestrian-bike path being built in conjunction with the new North Spokane Corridor (NSC).
The 10.5 mile NSC will include a parallel pedestrian-bike path along the entire route. The first section of the trail will open in 2009 from Lincoln Road to Farwell Road. The second section, continuing north to Wandermere will be opening in 2011. Future sections will connect neighborhoods to neighborhoods as well as provide connections to the Centennial and Ben Burr trails and scenic viewpoints of the Spokane area.
After the names are submitted, a committee of local citizens and leaders will review the entries and choose the trail name.
The NSC facility already captures some of the local flavor in some of the design features along the route. For example, the Morgan Acres bridges have a "wagon wheel" motif, the bridges to the north have the "Children of the Sun" motif, the Perry bridge has the "flying and hiking herons" (requested by Friends of the Little Spokane River) and they all have the basalt finish molded into the concrete. The Department hopes to have a similar community connection captured with the name of the new trail.
To submit a suggestion for the trail name, go to the North Spokane Corridor website and click on the Help Name the Trail link. Please have your suggestion submitted before January 15, 2009.
Contact information for the North Spokane Corridor:
Brittany Pfeifer
WSDOT: Eastern Region
509-324-6511
pfeifeb@wsdot.wa.gov
Jan 2009
Congress Passes Bicycle Commuter Act
When Congress passed the financial bailout plan in October, the Senate added a number of renewable energy initiatives to the package-including the Bicycle Commuter Benefits Act.
Effective January 1, 2009, the legislation allows employers to offer a financial benefit to employees who bike to work. Check the League of American Bicyclists website for updated information.
2010 | 2009 2008 2007 | 2006 | 2005
19 Dec 2008
Help Improve King County Bike Map
Do you use the King County Bicycling Guidemap? They are seeking your ideas for improvements to build a better bike map!
Take their online survey through December 19, and let them know what you think. You can make a difference.
Dec 2008
Comment on the Next President's Energy Plan
You are encouraged to visit the www.change.gov website and share your opinion with Heather Zichal, member of the Energy and Environment Policy Team.
11 Dec 2008
Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop Master Plan Final Public Meeting
Seattle Parks and Recreation invites you to a public meeting to learn about the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop Master Plan. The purpose of the loop is to enable citizens and visitors to enjoy the unique character and history of the neighborhoods that surround Lake Union and to enjoy a unique recreational experience. The City will adopt a Master Plan to ensure the loop is easily accessible for a variety of pedestrians and recreational cyclists.
Parks will present the final master plan elements for the loop at this meeting. We will take comments on the Master Plan.
We encourage you to come and participate in this public meeting.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
5 - 7:30 p.m.
Brief presentation at at 6 p.m.
South Lake Union Armory
860 Terry Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98109For more information: David Graves, AICP
Senior Planner, Major Projects & Planning
Seattle Parks and Recreation
800 Maynard Ave. S., 3rd Floor
Seattle, WA 98134-1336
david.graves@seattle.gov 206-684-7048
www.seattle.gov/parks/LakeUnionLoop
19 Nov 2008
Bellevue Bike-Ped Plan Transportation Meeting
Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Plan Planning Commission will hold its final review public hearing on 2008 comprehensive plan amendments, including those related to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Plan at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at City Hall, in Room 1E-113.
18 Nov 2008
City of Spokane Master Bike Plan Open House
What: City of Spokane Master Bike Plan Open House Where: Salem Lutheran Church
1428 W. Broadway
Spokane, WA 99201When: Tuesday, November 18 from 6-8pm Who: Anybody interested in the Master Bike Plan
13-14 Nov 2008
Another Successful Safe Routes to School Summit
The Center for Safe Routes to School in Washington State held its second Statewide Safe Routes to School Summit in Spokane Washington on November 13th. Forty seven attendees from all across Washington participated. The agenda consisted of 2 tracks, a training course for beginners and a second which featured information about innovations, mobilizing parents and administrators and sustaining programs. Success stories included:
- Spokane's school zone flashing beacons.
- Los Angeles, California's road diets on multi-lane roads near schools that resulted in increased walking to school without impeding traffic flow.
- Vancouver, BC's encouragement efforts including Walking Crews (neighborhood walking clubs that encourage participation from all grade levels so that the older children are encouraging the younger children to walk with them). And Car Cootie Day (a no-car day where children are encouraged to ride the bus, walk or bike to school but to avoid the cootie contaminated cars).
- Spokane School District's program teaching children bicycle safety skills and a program designed for the youngest students using scooters because they are too little to bike.
Willie Weir provided an inspirational lunch presentation and the afternoon featured a Safe Routes to School "open mic" that resulted in a lot of brainstorming, funny stories and more inspiration.
The Center's summit partners included the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Spokane Regional Health District.
13-14 Nov 2008
Safe Routes to School Summit in Spokane
Safe Routes to School is an international movement to increase the number of students walking and biking to school safely. Safe Routes programs bring communities together to increase neighborhood safety, improve air quality, combat childhood obesity, and take joy in the simple acts of walking and bicycling.
Who should attend?
This conference is for anyone interested in Safe Routes to School: parents, school staff members, law enforcement officers, public health professionals, transportation professionals, elected officials, student activists, and/or Safe Routes to School advocates.More details, including online registration form at: www.saferouteswa.org.
12 Nov 2008
City of Kirkland Transportation Commission reviews Bike Plan
The process for updating the non-motorized plan is continuing. A number of people have commented on the draft material that is posted on the web. This has resulted in suggestions of how the draft ideas should be changed.
On Wednesday, November 12, from 6:00 - 9:00 in the Council Chambers at City Hall, the Transportation Commission will be meeting to discuss the draft plan and ideas for its improvement. Discussion topics will include plan goals, how projects should be prioritized, items that should be included in the plan and so forth. This will be a working session for the Commission and there will be opportunities for public comment. You will receive another email later this week when meeting materials are posted on line.
There will be other opportunities for public review and comment on the draft plan but if you are interested in the details of how the plan is being put together you will find this meeting interesting.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
David Godfrey, P.E.
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works
dgodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
(425) 587-3865
4 Nov 2008
Election Recommendations
BAW opposes Initiative 985, Supports Transit Expansion (Sound Transit Prop 1)
Occasionally, the board of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington takes a position on an initiative, bond issue or other issue. (BAW does not endorse or oppose individual candidate races.) Last year, the board recommended passage of the Roads and Transit proposal before voters around Puget Sound: the measure was defeated. For the upcoming election, the Bicycle Alliance is opposing state-wide Initiative 985. BAW is also endorsing the expansion of transit service in the Seattle-Tacoma-Everett area proposed in Sound Transit 2 (Sound Transit Prop 1).
I-985 focuses on motor vehicles [NO on I-985]
by Kristin Kinnamon
Chair Statewide and Legislative Committee
While the ballot title states that the measure is intended to "reduce traffic congestion," it focuses solely on motor vehicles as the means to do so. By requiring a certain amount of state and local money be spent on "congestion relief" measures aimed solely at cars, I-985 puts at risk funding for non-motorized and transit projects. It sets out a "one size fits all" solution to traffic problems across the state, limiting local control and decision-making.
For instance, cities and counties would be required to synchronize traffic signals on arterials. That sounds good in theory, but there may be local reasons why lights are not timed to move cars quickly. It may be a community goal that cars move at safe speeds through neighborhoods. Preference may be given to pedestrian or transit traffic. Or a jurisdiction may simply not have the money to spend on an expensive traffic light management system, and set priorities in other areas.
Other items identified to "reduce congestion" are opening all HOV lanes at off-peak hours (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and having emergency response vehicles ready to respond to accidents on the freeway.
The initiative would require that 15% of vehicle sales taxes,100% of red light camera fines and all excess road tolls (not needed to pay for the bridge/project itself) go towards these defined "congestion relief" measures, in addition for paying the state auditor to monitor them.
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington supports balanced solutions to improve our transportation system, and developing a system for the future that gives people a choice of convenient, safe and environmentally-friendly modes for getting around.
This initiative puts transportation choices at risk by focusing funding and attention in very limited areas. Congestion relief must focus on moving people, not just cars. A balanced approach would include HOV and pedestrian improvements, bicycle facilities, commuter parking (for cars and bikes) and other support for transit and flexible funding to achieve these goals.
BAW backs expansion of mass transit [YES on Sound Transit Prop. 1]
by King Cushman
First Vice President
On September 26th the Board of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington voted overwhelmingly to support Sound Transit's Proposition 1 on the November 4th ballot, the proposal for major mass transit expansion in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties.
While the ballot does contain a few explicit bicycle related projects such as adding more bike storage at stations and improving bicycle access to transit facilities, a key rationale for the board's support was the unique long-range opportunity the ballot offers to help create more pedestrian-bicycle friendly development and reduce auto-dependency throughout much of Sound Transit's three-county service area.
The ballot measure provides positive environmental benefits through direct support of adopted local and regional growth management plans that call for major investments in mass transit capital facilities and service expansion - bus and rail - in over a couple dozen community and regional centers. Reduced auto dependency and greatly increased every day travel by pedestrians and bicycles has resulted in many North American and European cities that have increased development densities with supportive transit service expansion.
Sound Transit has also just created a Bicycle Advisory Committee that includes representation from the BAW and it is our intent to work with Sound Transit and this committee to assure that all Sound Transit's facilities and services adequately provide improved bicycle access and bike accommodation.
24 Oct 2008
Comment on Eastside Transit and HOV Project (SR520) Plan
Washington Department of Transportation is inviting comments on the Eastside Transit and HOV Project, which will be the first phase of the improvements on SR 520 to be completed (prior to the building of a new Lake Washington bridge). Tell them that continuous, signed bicycle routes that connect regional routes are essential to this project. Public comments are due Oct 24th.
Project details and contact information: www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/SR520Bridge.
18 Oct 2008
Hurricane Ridge Road Reopens to Bicyclists
After being closed to bicyclists since spring, the Hurricane Ridge Road inside Olympic National Park is now again open to riders, park officials have announced. The 17-mile route from just south of Port Angeles to the visitor center at the top was closed to bicyclists during construction. The Bicycle Alliance protested the closure decision and requested that the road be opened during certain summer weekends but was not successful in changing the minds of park officials. However, park officials and a federal agency did work with the contractor to get the repaving, shoulder work and guardrail installations complete in one instead of two years.
The near mile gain in elevation from the park entrance to the Hurricane Ridge Visitors' Center makes the 17-mile up climb a popular outing for conditioned cyclists. The road reopened to bikes October 18 and will be open daily to all traffic through Thanksgiving, depending on the weather. During winter the road is plowed Friday through Sunday only. Bicyclists pay a $5 individual admission charge to enter the park.
To celebrate the reopening to cyclists a group of riders from the Port Townsend Bicycle Association conquered the hill on October 19. Picture shows (left to right) Lee Johnson, Jane Whicher, Mary Toews, Jon Muellner and David McCulloch.
18 Oct 2008
Auction garners applause, support for BAW
The Bicycle Alliance's 16th annual gala dinner and auction brought a sold-out crowd to the Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center October 18. Auctioneer Eric Mamroth was joined by Master of Ceremonies Willie Weir in creating an energy that resulted in spirited bidding on everything from huckleberry pie to a Davidson hand-built frame; from a taco party to an African safari trip. Attendees put aside news of economic woes to show their support for state-wide bicycle advocacy.
BAW president Ralph Wessels and Vice-president Kristin Kinnamon started the evening off with a summary of the hard-won successes of the alliance and upcoming legislative goals (see Legislative Issues). Acknowledging the recent award by the League of American Bicyclists to the State of Washington for being the top-rated state in the nation, Wessels commented: "Is the water-bottle half-full or half-empty?."
From provisional figures, it looked like the auction garnered more than $70,000 for the BAW, slightly down from the 2007 figure but a great success given recent stock market falls.
"Given that many people's retirement accounts and mutual funds have fallen more than 35% in the past few months, I think the auction was a tremendous success," said BAW executive director Gordon Black. "More especially, all the people I have spoken to said that they had a great time. Helping making everything run smoothly was a fabulous crew of volunteers and staff members. Naturally, we also owe a big thanks to our sponsors and those who donated items."
BAW has reserved the same space for the 2009 gala dinner and auction - set for October 24, 2009. Auctioneer Eric Mamroth has been invited to again rally the bids.
15 Oct 2008
Interurban Trail Ribbon Cutting - Mountlake Terrace
From the City of Mountlake Terrace:
Please join us for the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for the completion of the last section of the Interurban Trail in Mountlake Terrace.
Interurban Trail Ribbon Cutting
Wednesday, October 15, 2008, 3:00 pm
Trail Crossing at 226th Pl SW & 72nd Ave W
The Interurban Trail can provide future linkage for bicyclists and pedestrians to the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center and the revitalizing Town Center.
On street parking is available on 226th Place. See map.
For more information, contact Penny Merkley at 425-744-6203 or pmerkley@ci.mlt.wa.us
15 Oct 2008
Burke-Gilman Trail "Missing Link" Open House
From the City of Seattle Department of Transportation:
You're invited! Please join us for an Open house to learn about the latest developments with the "Missing Link" project through Ballard. The design for this Burke-Gilman Trail project is now 90 percent complete for the first segment, from 11th Ave. NW to 17th Ave. NW, and 60 percent complete for the segment running from 17th to the Ballard Locks.
Details will be presented at the Open House Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at:
Adams Elementary School
6110 28th Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.Questions? Contact Project Manager Kirk T. Jones at kirkt.jones@seattle.gov or at 206-615-0862.
Thank you all for your patience and support as we continue building the Burke-Gilman Trail!
30 Sept - 2 Oct 2008
Volunteers Needed for Bike Counts around Washington State
WSDOT and the Cascade Bicycle Club are enlisting the support of volunteers and other organizations, like FeetFirst and the Bicycle Alliance of Washington, to benchmark the numbers of people bicycling and walking on paths, bike lanes, sidewalks, and other facilities across the state on September 30th, October 1st, and October 2nd, 2008. The information will be used to establish benchmarks and track progress toward the state's goal of encouraging people to get out of their cars.
Counts will be assembled from all over Washington State, but we are focusing on several cities including: Bellevue, Bellingham, Bothell, Bremerton, Ellensburg, Everett, Kent, Kirkland, Longview, Olympia, Richland, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Walla Walla, Wenatchee and Yakima.
To get involved and count bicyclists and pedestrians on paths, sidewalks, bike lanes, and other facilities in your community, contact Cascade Bicycle Club via email at organizer@cascadebicycleclub.org or call them at: 206-957-0689.
Sept 2008
Comment on Update of Kirkland's Non-Motorized Plan
New information has been posted regarding the update of Kirkland's non-motorized plan. Please take a moment to visit the website and review the bicycling and walking project maps, project descriptions and the other information that is posted there.
These project lists are a draft of what the Transportation Commission is planning to include in the new plan. We need your ideas/comments and thoughts on questions such as:
- Are these the right projects?
- What important pieces have we left off?
- Do you agree with the prioritization techniques?
Thanks for taking the time to improve the plan!
For the Transportation Commission,
David Godfrey, P.E.
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works
dgodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
(425) 587-3865
27-28 Sept 2008
Promote Bicycling at Sustainable Ballard Festival - Volunteers Needed!
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is a sponsor of this year's Sustainable Ballard Festival on September 27 and 28 at the Ballard Commons Park (intersection of 22nd Ave NW and NW 57th Stin Downtown Ballard) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We need volunteers to take 3 hour shifts and would like 2 at the table at a time to answer questions and give out brochures. The table will be in a tent so you don't have to be concerned about the weather.
If you are interested or have questions, please contact Dave Janis at 206.224.9252 Ext. 302, or davej@bicyclealliance.org.
Shift Schedule (2 volunteers needed each day):
Saturday Sept 27:
11am - 2pm
2pm - 5pm
Sunday Sept 28:
11am - 2pm
2pm - 5pm
Sustainable Ballard is holding its 5th annual festival that is expected to draw up to 7,500 participants that will experience a grand array of resource-conserving demonstrations, information tables, hands-on activities, entertainment, and discussion provided by 60 businesses and organization. More info at: sustainableballard.org
24 Sept 2008
Scooters in the Bike Lane - Willie Weir speaks in Spokane
Globe-trotting cyclist and author Willie Weir, who has pedaled his way through India, Turkey, Thailand, Bosnia and other parts of the world, is coming to Spokane September 24. Weir, whose blend of anecdotes, observations and photographs captures the essence of a country, is staging a benefit show for the Bicycle Alliance as part of its campaign to open an office in Eastern Washington.
7pm on September 24
South Campus Facility (next to The Bookie)
Riverpoint Campus
410 Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane
Tickets are $10 in advance (or $12 at the door) from North Division Bicycle Shop, 10503 N. Division St in Spokane, 509-467-2453; or by contacting the Bicycle Alliance: bikeinfo@bicyclealliance.org or 206.224.9252.
22 Sept 2008
Bike Loading in All Seattle Tunnel Stations Begins Sept. 22
Because of the increased demand for linking bicycles and transit, King County Metro is opening all stations of the Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel to bicycle loading and unloading for a demonstration project, effective Monday, Sept. 22.
Cyclists may use elevators or stairs in the tunnel stations to transport their bicycles, but they are not allowed to use the escalators. While waiting for your bus, please stand at the head of the bus bay behind the yellow textured strip until the bus comes to a complete stop.
NOTE: Because changes to the bicycle loading policy were not completed before the September 2008 timetables were printed, the timetables still say that loading and unloading bicycles is allowed at only Convention Place and International District stations.
For more information, you can download the "Bicycle Loading in the Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel" brochure [.pdf 39 kb]. Alternative formats are available by calling 206-684-2046 (TTY Relay: 711).
17 Sept 2008
Volunteers Needed for Bike Count in Seattle
Seattle is conducting a city wide bicycle count - Wednesday, September 17, 2008, 6:30 AM - 9:00 AM. There are 25 locations where they will be conducting counts.
If you are willing to help, please call or email:
Gina Coffman: 206 684-3902, virginia.coffman@seattle.gov; or
Peter Lagerwey: 206 684-5108, pete.lagerwey@seattle.gov
All volunteers will receive a packet with full instructions and counting forms. Results will be used to monitor progress toward increasing the number of bicycle trips as called for in the Seattle Bicycle Master Plan.
Thank you in advance!
11 Sept 2008
Commuter Connection opens in Bellevue
After working closely with the City of Bellevue over the last several months, the city's new bicycle parking facility Commuter Connection, opened officially on Sept 11th. Designed with the help of the Bicycle Alliance, and sponsors King County Metro, Sound Transit, and TransManage, the facility has 27 bike parking spaces, as well as a shop stand, basic tools, and floor pump, for bicyclists to use. Our Commute Specialist, Every Day, will be on staff Wednesdays from 9am to Noon, to provide commuter tips, emergency repairs and moral support to new riders and parkers. The spaces are leased for $45 per six months, plus key and lock deposits.
For rental information, contact 206-224-9252 x 304, or locker@bicyclealliance.org.
Bikes get safe place to spend day - Seattle Times article on the Grand Opening.
Sept 2008
Updated Pierce County Bike Maps Available online
The new bike map that came out in May of this year is now available online on the Pierce County Bikemap website.
Please note that sections of the bike map have been updated to include new bikeways, corrections, and other feedback. The sections of the bike map that have been updated are dated "August 2008" in their respective PDF copies. Pierce County will continue to update the online bike map on a periodic basis so be sure to check the web page regularly.
August-September 2008
Construction: Burke-Gilman Trail Detour in Kenmore
The Burke-Gilman Trail has been detoured from west of 65th Ave. NE (across from Sherwin-Williams) to east of 65th Ave. NE. (across from QQ Bistro). Signage has been posted to alert trail users of the detour and to help guide them onto the temporary paths to and from NE 175th St. Trail users should be aware that large trucks operate in this area and should carefully and alertly enter and exit the NE 175th St. roadway.
The trail detour will remain in place while crews realign 65th Ave. NE. The current 65th Ave. NE roadway on the south side of SR 522 will be shifted east to align with 65th Ave. NE. on the north side of SR 522. Crews will also be grading, landscaping and undergrounding utilities in a joint utility trench in the area.
More information, including detour routes and maps, available at www.kenmoresr522.com.
7 September 2008
Spokefest - Sept 7, 2008, Riverfront Park - Spokane
Spokefest, a project of the Spokane Bicycle Advisory Board, is a celebration of cycling! This event features a one-mile fun ride for kids and a 21-mile river loop. Finish line includes music, cycling expo and health fair.
Volunteers are also needed for this event.
To register, volunteer, or to learn more about Spokefest, go to: www.spokefest.org
Bike Swap at Spokefest
Looking for a bargain on cycling gear, components or accessories? Check out the Bike Swap at Spokefest on September 7. Organized by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington, the swap will run from 9:30am to 1pm. Come early for the best selection!
A limited amount of table space is available to individuals, cycling clubs and bike groups that want to participate in the Bike Swap. A half table space is $15 and full table is $25. To secure a spot for your club or yourself, contact Louise McGrody at 206.224.9252 ext. 303 or via email at louisemc@bicyclealliance.org.
Sept 2008
Lynnwood Needs Show of Support for New Bike Lanes
The City of Lynnwood intends to re-stripe several arterial streets and add bike lanes this fall. The city has received grants to cover the cost of the re-striping and notified area residents and businesses about the plans, which involves the loss of on-street parking.
However, last-minute opposition to the plans has emerged and there is an attempt to prevent the project from proceeding. Final city council decisions on the re-striping are coming up. It's important to show your support for these bike-lane improvements by turning up at two upcoming city council meetings and testifying. You can also contact Lynnwood city council members and let them know your position:
Where: Lynnwood City Hall Map
19100 44th Ave W., LynnwoodWhen: September 3, 7pm - first hearing
September 8, 7pm - final decision
2-5 September 2008
PRO WALK/PRO BIKE 08: 2-5 September 2008 Seattle
Transforming Communities - PRO WALK/PRO BIKE 08: 2-5 September 2008 Seattle
Hundreds of people dedicated to achieving more active walkable and bikable communities are coming to Seattle the week after Labor Day to see and hear about the great progress the Puget Sound region has made creating healthier active communities.
Join bicycle, pedestrian, active living and climate change advocates, elected and appointed officials, bike/ped specialists, transportation experts, land-use planners, safe routes to school coordinators, public health practitioners, and many more who want to make our cities and communities more walkable and bicycle-friendly places. The 15th biennial Pro Walk/Pro Bike Conference is coming to the Pacific Northwest September 2-5, 2008.
The Westin Seattle Hotel will be the headquarters for the event, but there will be ample opportunities to get out and see first-hand examples of great facilities and programs that are making Seattle and the Puget Sound a model city and region for the role of bicycling and walking in 21st century communities.
To learn more about this dynamic and comprehensive conference, visit the National Center for Biking and Walking website. Conference registration is on-line now and you can save $50-100 if you register by August 1st, so don't miss out!
7 August 2008
Mukilteo Bike-Ped Plan Meeting
Mukilteo is currently working on a draft Bicycle, Pedestrian and Trails Plan, which is intended to detail future proposed pedestrian and bicycle trails and paths. The plan will serve as the guiding document for future trail development within the City and for creating connectivity to trail systems outside the City limits. The plan will establish locations and standards for trail construction.
Interested parties are invited to attend and offer testimony at the Parks and Arts Commission Public Hearing
- 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 7
- City Hall in the Council Chambers
- 4480 Chennault Beach Rd., Mukilteo
You can view the draft plan and maps online. For more information about the plan or to submit comments, contact Assistant Planner Jamie Theuer at (425) 355-4141 ext. 300 or jtheuer@ci.mukilteo.wa.us.
2 August 2008
Irreverent Tour de Fat draws crowd to Seattle park
Tour de Fat, New Belgium's traveling vaudeville show promoting bicycling and sustainability proved a big hit at Gasworks Park in Seattle August 2. With the emphasis on fun, New Belgium's master of ceremony, the self-styled Rev Ballyhoo (aka Chris Winn) revved a show high on drama and low on seriousness as he preached riding bikes, driving less and not owning a car.
Spicing up the day-long celebration were bands, a parade and bike ride, and performance, including a campy all-women dance act named The Sprockettes, whose members combined synchronized movements on small-wheeled bikes and baton-twirling to hoots from the crowd. About 200 people participated in the parade - many dressed in costumes - westward on the Burke-Gilman Trail: some rode all the way to its end at Golden Gardens on the shores of Puget Sound.
Sales from beer at the event raised over $7000 for the advocacy programs at the Bicycle Alliance of Washington. Bike Works was the co-beneficiary of the event and raised money from sales of t-shirts, caps, and other cool schwag.
View more photos of the fun at Jeff Whitton's Photo Album on Flickr.
July-August 2008
North Creek Trail in Bothell closed under highway 522 for a month
WSDOT issued the following notice July 25th (several days AFTER the closure):
The North Creek Trail is closed for approximately 30 days from just north of SR 522 on the UW college campus to immediately south of the SR 522 overpass where it meets with the Sammamish River Trail.
The closure is necessary because active construction equipment and falling steel debris could pose a safety risk for trail users at that location as crews begin work to widen SR 522 bridges near the UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College Campuses.
We have posted detour maps at major trail entrances near the work zone. There are also detour signs directing bicyclists and pedestrians to use 102nd Avenue NE to Beardslee Boulevard in Bothell. This work is part of the SR 522 UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College South Campus Access project .
Find more info about this project at the WSDOT website.
July-August 2008
I-90 trail narrowed between Bellevue and Mercer Island
WSDOT issued the following notice July 25th:
The section of the I-90 trail which spans the East Channel Bridge, between Bellevue and Mercer Island, has been narrowed in preparation for demolishing the existing barrier and replacing it with a new barrier and lighting. The new lighting will give trail users greater visibility at night and early mornings.
The original construction plan called for 30 minute closures during construction but we felt that narrowing the path would better serve the growing number of cyclists and pedestrians that use the path each day. We hope to restore the path to its original configuration by mid-August. This work is part of the WSDOT and Sound Transit I-90 Two Way and HOV Operations project.
Find more info about this project at the WSDOT website.
28 July 2008
Introductory Membership Offer in Pierce County
Nine bike stores in Pierce County and one in Federal Way are offering free Bicycle Alliance of Washington memberships when a new bike is purchased. The offer is good for anyone buying a new bike who has not previously been a member of the BAW. (Sorry, doesn't apply to lapsed or those who are currently members.) If you are already a member, pass on the news to friends you ride with and tell them that they too can add their voice to the chorus of bicycle advocates working to improve cycling conditions in Washington State. New bike buyers should ask for a membership packet from the sales person at any of the following stores which have partnered for this promotion:
- Bike Tech in Lakewood, Puyallup, and Tacoma
- Black Diamond Bike & Backcountry in Black Diamond
- Bonney Lake Bicycle Shop of Sumner in Sumner
- Old Town Bicycle in Gig Harbor and Tacoma
- Phil's South Side Cyclery in Federal Way
- Spoke & Sprocket in University Place
- Trailside Cyclery in Orting
1 Aug 2008
Tell King County to go ahead with Burke-Gilman Trail Improvements
King County Facilities Management Division issued the Burke-Gilman Trail Redevelopment Project Final Environmental Impact Statement on July 2, 2008. The proposed changes apply to the Burke-Gilman Trail through Lake Forest Park, between NE 145th Street and Log Boom Park.
Tell the County you want them to implement the proposed improvements to the trail which would widen the trail, improve traffic controls, increase sight distances, and generally bring the trail up to standards. Comments are due August 1st.
Find more information about the Burke-Gilman Trail at the King County Parks website.
15 July 2008
Cooper's Corner opens in Tri-Cities
The Tri-Cities recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of Cooper's Corner in the Columbia Center Mall. Cooper's Corner is an educational interactive bicycle and pedestrian safety exhibit for children. The exhibit will be managed by the Kennewick Police Department and staffed by volunteers. Cooper's Corner is a joint project of the Benton Franklin Traffic Safety Task Force, Benton Franklin Safe Kids Coalition, and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.
This is the second such facility to be built in Washington State. The first Cooper's Corner resides in Spokane and is named in honor of Cooper Jones, a young Spokane cyclist who was hit and killed by a motorist during a sanctioned road race.
June-July 2008
Eastside (BNSF) Rail Corridor Open Houses
The Port of Seattle is holding several informational open houses on the Eastside Rail Corridor. The Port recently acquired a 42-mile rail corridor from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, extending from the community of Snohomish and traveling south through Eastside cities to Renton. The Bicycle Alliance has long advocated for a trail in this corridor when it became available and we believe that rail with trail dual use is possible and appropriate. A corridor trail could make connections to the Centennial Trail, Burke-Gilman and Sammamish River Trails, the I-90 Trail, and numerous regional bike routes.
Please attend an open house to learn more about this project and voice your support for including a trail in the corridor.
Wednesday, June 25, 7 - 9 pm
Newport High School Commons
4333 Factoria Blvd SE in Bellevue
Wednesday, July 9, 7 - 9 pm
Kirkland City Hall, Peter Kirk Room
123 Fifth Ave in Kirkland
Thursday, July 10, 7 - 9 pm
Kennydale Elementary School Cafeteria
1700 NE 28th in Renton
28 June 2008
Kenmore Burke-Gilman Trail Re-opening and Ground-breaking
Join the City of Kenmore as we celebrate the grand re-opening of the Burke-Gilman Trail and break ground on the next phase of SR 522 construction.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
10:30 to Noon
Kenmore Community Club
7304 NE 175th St.
Bring your bikes, strollers and walking shoes to try out the new 73rd
Ave. NE underpass.
Activities also include decorating bikes at the City of Kenmore booth
and getting a bike tune-up from an REI mechanic.
Light refreshments will be provided.
A special thank you to participating organizations:
- Bothell Ski & Bike
- Cascade Bicycle Club
- Kenmore Community Club
- King County Parks
- REI
- Safeway
- Starbucks
- Washington Health Foundation
For more information, view the event poster or visit the project Web site: www.KenmoreSR522.com, or contact 425-361-6300 or info@KenmoreSR522.com.
2 June 2008
Pierce County Bike Maps Available Again!
An updated version of the Pierce County bike map is now available. To find out where you can pick up a copy of the map, go to: Pierce County website
June 2008
Comment on Tukwila's Walk & Roll Plan!
Attention Tukwila Walk & Rollers:
The City of Tukwila's Draft Walk & Roll Plan is online and ready for your review! In the coming weeks, the Draft Walk & Roll Plan will be under review by the public, to include a public hearing before the Tukwila City Council. Prior to City Council adoption of the plan, we would like your input for changes to the Draft Walk & Roll Plan to make it a better guide for use in figuring out how and where new pedestrian and bicycle facilities should be built. Please submit your comments by email or in writing by June 9, 2008.
The Draft Walk & Roll Plan can be accessed on the City of Tukwila website by clicking on the following link: www.ci.tukwila.wa.us/dcd/walkandroll.html
21 May 2008
Give Your Car the Summer Off!
Press Conference to kick-off Give Your Car the Summer Off
When: Wednesday, May 21st
Time: 10:00am to 11:00am
Location: 2119 Rainier Avenue South (Corner of Rainier, Hill and 23rd Ave)
We're trying to get bicyclists to attend, so ride on down!
16 May 2008
Pedal Power Q&A
Along with Cascade Bicyle Club's Chris Cameron, BAW Commute Director Every Day answers questions from prospective bike commuters on a live chat (Noon May 16th) sponsored by the Seattle Times.
Missed it? You can read the Questions and Answers archived on the Seattle Times website.
16 May 2008
Bike to Work Spokane a Huge Success!
For the first time since 1992, there has been a Bike to Work event in Spokane. The Bicycle Alliance of Washington and the Spokane Bicycle Advisory Board partnered to put on Bike to Work Spokane, May 12-16. Over 800 cyclists registered to participate in this week long celebration of bicycling. Mayor Mary Verner biked to work and joined celebrants at the kick-off rally in Riverfront Park. Go to www.biketoworkspokane.org for additional details.
8 May 2008
Washington State looking for new Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator
WSDOT is seeking a talented senior-level planner or designer to assume a leadership role as the State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator.
Job Description, application details at WSDOT website.
12 May 2008
Port agrees to buy rail line - trail is part of plan
Port of Seattle commissioners voted May 12 to purchase the 42-mile BNSF rail corridor in King County. With that vote and an earlier vote by King County Council members, the future of the rail corridor as a public asset is assured. That's good news for trail advocates, including BAW members who have actively campaigned to convert the abandoned line into a trail.
The agreement involving the port and county is to explore dual use - trail and rail over 32 miles of the route: the remainder - between Woodinville and Snohomish - will be retained for freight rail service. The Port of Seattle is using its tax levy funds to pay the railroad $107 Million. King County is paying $2 million for a trail easement.
The port is planning a public hearing on the future of the trail - likely to take place in June. A study to examine the feasibility of passenger rail service in the corridor is to be completed by Puget Sound Regional Council and Sound Transit by the end of this year. The purchase also has to obtain approval by the US Surface Transportation Board to qualify the line for rail-banking. This allows an interim trail to be built pending a potential future rail use.
King County Council and the port are expected to reach agreement on trail plans for the route in the fall of 2009. Watch the BAW web site for news of upcoming public hearings and meetings as the port and county make decisions on the future of the route.
More details in articles in the Seattle Times and Seattle P-I.
May 2008
Bike to Work & School Events around the State
May 16th is Bike to Work Day, and there many Bike to Work events scheduled throughout the month of May, particularly the week of May 12 - 16. See the list below for links to events around the state:
- Snohomish County Bike to Work & School
- Thurston County: 21st Annual Bicycle Commuter Contest
- Whatcom County's Everybody Bike
- Bike to Work Spokane
- King County Bike to Work Month
- Tacoma/Pierce County Bike to Work
- Tri-Cities Commute Challenge
12-16 May 2008
Spokane Bike-to-Work Events
Spokane is launching its first Bike-to-Work promotion with a week-long event May 12 - 16 that includes clinics and kick-off breakfast attended by local politicians and the media. Contact: Barb Chamberlain - www.biketoworkspokane.org
10 May 2008
Burke Gilman Trail Extension Opens - Seattle
Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels will cut a ribbon to mark the completion of a western extension of the Burke-Gilman Trail in the Golden Gardens neighborhood of Seattle May 10. The ceremony will take place at the corner Seaview Ave NW and Seaview Pl NW (across the street from Golden Gardens Park) at 10am. Golden Gardens is a park on the shoreline of Puget Sound.
5 May 2008
Testify at King County meeting for Eastside Rail-Trail Route
Update: KC Council votes for rail-trail
On May 5th, the King County Council voted to pass a ordinance binding them to an agreement that will have the Port of Seattle purchase the line from BNSF Railway. The Port has still to vote on the decision.
Read more about it in this Seattle P-I article and this Seattle Times editorial.
A key decision on the future use of the abandoned BNSF rail route along the eastern side of Lake Washington will be made by the King County Council on Monday, May 5th. A committee comprised of the entire council will take public testimony at 9:30am on a proposed ordinance that the county must approve to meet the Port of Seattle's intended acquisition of the corridor from the railroad.
The Bicycle Alliance supports dual use of the corridor - for a trail and possible future rail service. If you can, plan on turning up and let the council know you support their position of dual use. If you wish to testify, here are some key points to make:
- The corridor is a vital asset that must be preserved through public ownership.
- Interim use as a trail is consistent with federal rail-banking laws that preserve rail corridors for future rail use.
- A trail can be built in a relatively short time-span - bringing immediate public benefit for the invested public dollars.
- The corridor with a trail offers a unique chance to create a car-free route in a growing suburban area with thousands of bicycle riders.
- Rail-trails attract daily bicycle commuters -not just recreational riders.
- The county's proposed easement agreement enables work to begin immediately on funding and construction of an interim trail while not precluding future rail use.
The committee of the whole council meets in the county chambers:
9:30am, Monday May 5th
King County Courthouse building, 10th floor
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA
If you can't make it to the 9:30am meeting but the committee approves the ordinance, it will then be heard by the council at its 1:30pm meeting, that same day. Public testimony will also be heard then.
If you are unable to attend the meeting you can still have an impact by contacting your County Council Member to urge his or her support on the ordinance. You can find a map showing the Council districts and contact information at the King County Council website.
Background: The Eastside rail corridor spans 42 miles parallel to I-405 from Renton to Snohomish and Woodinville, providing a regional connection through two counties and seven cities. The corridor was offered for sale by BNSF in 2004. Last November, the County and Port of Seattle reached a preliminary agreement that allows the Port to acquire the right-of-way with King County operating a regional trail along the corridor.
26 April 2008
Green My Ride - Alternative Transportation Fair - Seattle
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Phinney Neighborhood Center
6532 Phinney Ave. N.
www.greenmyride.info
GREEN MY RIDE event with live music from the Hayburners, Loose Digits, and more! Check out this fun and FREE alternative transportation fair and learn about biking, busing, walking and alternatively fueled vehicles. Bike and bike gear swap!
April 22, 24, 29 2008
Spokane Sets Three Open Houses to Get Input on Master Bike Plan
Citizens are invited to three open houses in April to provide input as the City of Spokane updates its Master Bike Plan. The update includes identifying ways to make Spokane more bicycle friendly, improving bike routes, signage, and other elements.
"We haven't updated the City's bicycle plan in any significant way for 20 years," says Ken Pelton, a City planner who is working on this project. "As a City, we want to encourage alternative modes of transportation, so making it easier for cyclists to get around just makes sense."
The open houses will be held on:
-
Tuesday, April 22, from 6 to 8 p.m.
at the Southside Senior Activity Center,
3151 E. 27th Ave.
-
Thursday, April 24, from 7 to 9 p.m.
at the West Central Community Center,
1603 N. Belt
-
Tuesday, April 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.
at the Northeast Community Center,
4001 N. Cook
At the sessions, citizens will find information about the planning process, maps of different aspects of the plan, and the opportunity to make comments and suggestions and ask questions.
During the open house on April 24 at West Central Community Center, the Washington State Department of Transportation also will hold a public hearing on the 2008-2027 Washington State Bicycle Facilities and Pedestrian Walkways Plan.
The City's Master Bike Plan is part of the transportation section of the City's Comprehensive Plan. The City's Planning Services and Engineering Services departments-along with the Bicycle Advisory Board-have been working on the bike plan update.
To date, their work has included creating an inventory of existing bike lanes, routes, signage, and other facilities. They have also reviewed bicycle planning ideas from other communities to get ideas for Spokane.
This work was anticipated with the adoption of the City's current Comprehensive Plan in 2001, which stated the City should "undertake additional planning for non-motorized travel to address more specifically the needs of bicyclists and pedestrians." The latest update to the Comp Plan in 2007 specifically added the statement, "Future planning should include an integrated Bicycle Master Plan that defines the goals and design elements for bicycling facilities in the City."
The City first adopted its "Bike Routes Plan" in 1978. A number of updates to this plan were developed and adopted in the 1980s and early 1990s.
Citizens who are unable to attend one of the open houses can contact Pelton or Joel Soden, project planner, by calling 625-6300. Information on the bike plan effort also will be available soon at www.spokaneplanning.org.
For more information on the Washington State Bicycle Facilities and Pedestrian Walkways plan, contact Paul Reeves at WSDOT, 310 Maple Park Ave SE, Olympia, WA, 98504 or by email at reevesp@wsdot.wa.gov. The web site is www.wsdot.wa.gov/bike/bike_plan.htm.
14 April 2008
Welcome Our New Commute Director: Every Day
Every Day started as the Bicycle Alliance of Washington's new Commute Director April 14th. Every moved up to the Seattle area from Portland last year. She has worked in transportation-based non-profit organizations and has been an avid bicycle commuter since coming to the Northwest in 2001.
Feel free to stop by and introduce yourself.
April 2008
Tell Olympic National Park NOT to ban bicyclists!
Hurricane Ridge Road inside Olympic National Park is a popular summer destination for bicyclists who like the challenge of a 17-mile road rising from virtually sea level to 5420-feet. Park managers have been planning to repave the road for several years and Congress has provided $12.7 Million to repave and repair 12 miles. The road recently sustained storm damage.
Citing "safety," the park is planning to ban bicyclists for the entire two year duration of the road repairs. The road will remain open to all other vehicle traffic, including motorcycles.
We believe that this is an unnecessary exclusion of bicyclists on what is a federally funded road open to all other forms of traffic.
Write to your members of Congress and interim park superintendent Sue McGill and let them know that the proposed ban is totally unacceptable [contact info listed below]. Request that McGill meet directly with the Bicycle Alliance and other bicycle groups to reach an improved solution.
Key points to raise:
- Hurricane Ridge Road is a popular destination for bicyclists
- Bicyclists who ride this road tend to be very experienced, fit riders
- The road will remain open to all other vehicle traffic
- State, county and city governments in Washington manage to accommodate bicyclists during reconstruction projects without any problems
- No construction work will take place at weekends, but the ban is to remain in place then too
- Olympic National Park did not contact a single bicycle group in its out-reach efforts, even though bicyclists are the most affected users
- Contractors routinely deal with bicyclists on other road projects - this project is no more a safety issue than other road works.
Olympic National Park
Sue McGill, Superintendent
Olympic National Park
600 E. Park Avenue
Port Angeles, WA 98362
sue_mcgill@nps.gov
Background on the issue is available in this Peninsula Daily News Article
Take action today!19 April 2008
Bike Alliance Holds Board and Staff Retreat
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington held a board and staff retreat on April 19 in Kirkland. It was a great opportunity for Board and staff to get to know each other, and for new Board members to learn the history of the organization.
Board president Ralph Wessels welcomed attendees and past Board member Arnie Tomac provided an historical overview. Staff members made brief presentations on their roles with the Bicycle Alliance and a financial overview was provided. Kristin Kinnamon, Board member and chair of the Legislative and Statewide Issues Committee, recapped this year's legislative activities and gathered suggestions for next year's agenda.
Afternoon discussion focused on elements of the organization's strategic plan. Participants discussed the continued need for an Eastern Washington staff person and ways the BAW could make this a reality. Expanding community and club outreach and increasing membership were also expressed goals. A commitment was made to begin the process to hire a development director as soon as the strategic plan updates are finalized.
April 2008
Meetings and final comment period for State Bike-Ped Plan
Individual riders have an opportunity to influence future biking and walking policies in Washington State. The Washington Department of Transportation is in the final stages of completing its review of the state-wide bicycle and pedestrian plan. The publication of a new plan will then guide the state's bicycle and pedestrian policies for the near future. A series of public hearings on the plan are scheduled for April in Vancouver (4/22), Ellensburg (4/23), Spokane (4/24) and Seattle (4/25). You can also provide comments by email and phone.
Meeting Times and venues:
April 22 - 6:30-8:00pm
Southwest Regional WSDOT offices
11018 NE 51st Circle
Vancouver, WA 98682April 23 - 6:30-8:00pm
Hal Holmes Center,
209 N Ruby St
Ellensburg, WA 98926April 24 - 7-9pm
West Central Community Center
1603 N. Belt Street
Spokane, 99205April 25 - 4-6pm
REI Store
222 Yale Avenue, N.
Seattle, 98109
A copy of the draft final report is can be viewed at the WSDOT website.
March 2008
Legislative session is over - BAW efforts gain traction
Two out of three measures the Bicycle Alliance directly supported in Olympia this year have gained approval. The 2 for 3 record means that bicycle and pedestrian safety (House Bill 2564) will be written into the curriculum materials prepared for high school students taking drivers' education classes throughout Washington. And pilot biking and walking programs in three schools districts have gotten funded in the budget approved by the transportation committees in the House and Senate. Both measures are subject to the governor's final signature.
The only measure that did not succeed this year was a bill to specify that three feet be designated a minimum safe passing distance when motor vehicles are passing cyclists and walkers. Although HB 2732 was given a public hearing in the House Transportation Committee, Washington State Patrol testified against it and the BAW decided to not pursue it any further this year. Bicycle Alliance will meet with WSF in coming weeks to gain support for this important safety measure.
In other bills supported by the BAW, the key measure that passed was SB 6580 which addresses global warming. It went through many iterations before being approved by lawmakers. SB 6580 requires the Department of Community Trade and Economic Development to develop methods and tools for local governments to deal with reducing carbon emissions. There will also be grants made available to cities and counties. A separate bill - HB 3154 and its Senate companion, SB 6822 - aimed at reducing the number of car trips did not succeed but some of its elements were incorporated into SB6580. Bills on tolling, recycling and the ability of motorcycles to turn left at stop lights that are not triggered by the presence of a motorcycle, all failed to make it through the legislative session.
On the often equally important task of stopping bills that could potentially hurt bicycling, the BAW lobbied hard to weaken HB 2344, which would have complicated the process of converting abandoned railroad lines into trails. After seeing it pass almost unanimously from the House, BAW worked with its supporters in the Senate to remove the offending section that would have required the Washington DoT to set up a public process to review abandonments, a step the BAW considered unnecessary. In the end, the bill never made it through the Senate.
March 2008
Bellevue Transportation Commission Schedules Ped-Bike Plan Meetings
The Bellevue Transportation Commission continues work on their Walk & Roll 2007 Pedestrian-Bike Plan. The Transportation Commission will consider improvements included in Walk & Roll plan in March.
- March 6, 6 p.m. : Draft Network Plan and Project List Workshop
- March 27, 6:30 p.m. : Follow-up on Draft Network Plan and Project List and Draft Prioritization Framework
- April 10, 6:30 p.m. : Final Network Plan and Project List
All of the meetings are on Thursdays at City Hall 450 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue, in Room 1E-113.
You can also provide your input with their new interactive mapping system that allows you to view and comment on proposals to improve Bellevue's network of bikeways, sidewalks, and trails. [if it doesn't work with your browser, try using Firefox]
March 2008
"Legislative Bill Watch" 2008
By Kristin Kinnamon, Board Member
Bicycle Alliance of Washington
The following bills are supported by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington or are of interest to the cycling community. The BAW works year-round with our lobbyist and legislators in Olympia and with other environmental and transportation advocacy groups to promote legislation that supports cycling. This year's focus is driver education, safety and better planning that includes bicycles in the transportation mix. Please contact your legislators in support of cycling. The regular session ends March 13.
HB = House Bill; SB = Senate Bill; extra S means it's a Substitute bill replacing the original
SB 6420/HB 2564 - Drivers' education curriculum. This is an updated version of last year's HB 1588. It adds bicyclist and pedestrian safety information to public school drivers' ed classes (Thanks to BAW efforts, Dept. of Licensing just started requiring private programs to cover these topics). We heard from legislators that some electeds made fun of the idea that you'd need to learn how to walk or bike. At the Senate hearing, there was strong interest in educating cyclists about safe "driving" as well (tell them that this drivers' ed bill is a great way to do that). House Sponsors: Upthegrove, Pederson, VanDeWege, Ormsby, Hunt, Wood, McIntire, Roberts, Hudgins, Jarrett, Rolfes, Kagi, Chase, Simpson. Senate Sponsors: Jacobsen, Kohl-Welles, Kilmer, McDermott, Brown, Murray, Kline, Rockefeller.
SB 6822/HB 3154 - Reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled. This bill requires DOT to set goals for reducing "vehicle miles traveled" in support of greenhouse gas reductions. Best practices - such as improving bike facilities? - are to be identified and financing options for local governments suggested. Senate Sponsors: Murray, Pridemore, Kline, Kohl-Welles, McAuliffe, Sheldon. House Sponsors: Upthegrove, Simpson, Dickerson, Wood, Williams, Hudgins, Eddy, Goodman, McIntire, Ormsby.
HB 2732 - Vehicle Passing Distance. Adds detail to current safe passing legislation that vehicles shall pass at a safe distance "of no less than three feet." At the hearing on the bill, the Washington State Patrol said they were concerned about needing to carry around yardsticks to enforce this bill. Truckers are concerned they'll need to cross the yellow line to pass. House Sponsors: Rolfes, Chase, Williams, Rodne, Pedersen, Nelson, Hasegawa, Upthegrove, Lantz, Simpson, Kagi.
SHB 1773/SSB 6355 - Tolling. The goal is to make sure that tolling revenues can be spent not just to improve and maintain the bridge or road tolled, but also on transit, bicycle facilities and other "demand management" efforts in the affected corridor. The substitute (amended) bills include the important word "manage" defining how tolls can be spent. House Sponsors: Clibborn, Jarrett. Senate Sponsors: Haugen.
HB 1353 - Recylcing Beverage Containers. Requires a 5 cent refundable deposit and establishment of redemption centers for all glass, metal or plastic beverage bottles (in addition to the environmental benefit of recycling, if glass bottles are worth $$ this should result in less broken glass on the roadway). This bill did not get a hearing or move out of committee in 2007, but it's ba-aack! House Sponsor: Chase.
HB 2797/SB 6580 - Local Solutions to Global Warming. We are supporting the environmental community on this bill, which would add a requirement to the Growth Management Act that large cities and counties consider greenhouse gas emissions in their planning and growth. House Sponsors: Simpson, Eddy, Campbell, Ormsby, Dunshee, Linville, Nelson, Jarrett, Springer, Wallace, Fromhold, Takko, Williams, Dickerson, Flannigan, Morrell, Chase, Lantz, Sells, Hunt, Pedersen, McCoy, Conway, Sullivan, Kenney, Darneille, McIntire, Green, Hudgins, Hasegawa, Ericks. Senate Sponsors: Marr, Weinstein, Pridemore, Kauffman, Keiser, McAuliffe, Hobbs, Regala, Kline, Kohl-Welles, Fairley, Oemig, Rockefeller, Prentice, McDermott.
SB 5543/SHB 1625 - Motorcycle at Traffic Signal. Back from unsuccessful try in 2007 to let motorcycles proceed through intersections if not detected up by the signal sensor after one cycle. The substitute bill adds requirements for insurance or bonding for the motorcyclist. We can't add bikes in due to the bill title - but we're watching for an opportunity of our own on this issue. House Sponsors: DeBolt, Hinkle, Warnick, Seaquist, Kagi, Kirby, Hunt, Wood, Dickerson, Conway, Lovick, Roach, Chase, Dunn, Flannigan, McCune, Priest, McDermott, Santos, Williams, McDonald, Newhouse, Alexander, Strow, Kretz, Condotta, Roberts, Ormsby, Haigh, Rolfes, Moeller. Senate Sponsors: Kilmer, Holmquist, Sheldon, Marr, Hargrove, Regala, Carrell, Delvin, Pridemore, Oemig, Schoesler, Shin, Rasmussen.
You can check the status of these and other bills at www.leg.wa.gov/legislature
We are also working through the budget process - no bills needed - to fund a pilot program in three school
districts for P.E. teachers to train students on safe bicycle riding.
28 February 2008
Help Make the Spokane County Regional Trails Plan a Reality!
Public Hearing: Spokane County Regional Trails Plan
Thursday, Feb 28, 2008 at 9:00am
Public Works Building, County Commissioners' Hearing Room
1026 W Broadway Ave in Spokane
The Spokane County Planning Commission is holding a public hearing on a proposed amendment to adopt the County's first ever regional trails plan. You have an opportunity to show your support attending the hearing and speaking in favor of it. If adopted, the regional trails plan calls for the completions of the Centennial and Fish Lake Trails, development of a trail between the Centennial Trail and Mt Spokane State Park, preservation of the of the abandoned Ben Burr railroad right-of-way in southeast Spokane County for a trail, and much more.
A copy of the trails plan can be viewed at www.spokanecounty.org/parks/prhome.htm
7 February 2008
Successful Transportation Advocacy Day in Olympia
Advocacy Day Draws Members to Olympia: bills pass first hurdle
More than sixty passionate believers in better biking, walking and transit options braved inclement winter weather for the annual Transportation Advocacy Day in Olympia January 29. The event is put on by a coalition of progressive groups, including the Bicycle Alliance, Transportation Choices Coalition, Feet First, Sierra Club, Climate Solutions, All Aboard Washington and others.
As well as meeting one-on-one with representatives and senators, attendees were able to sit in on hearings scheduled in the House Transportation Committee and its counterpart in the senate. Two bills promoted by the BAW were given hearings before the House Transportation Committee (HB 2564 and HB 2732) and one bill was heard in the Senate Transportation Committee (SB 6420). SB 6420 passed out of committee Feb. 5 and its house companion HB 2564 on Feb. 6. These bills add material on bicyclists and pedestrians to the drivers' education curriculum.
A second House bill (HB 2732) that seeks to define "safe passing" as a minimum of three feet when motor vehicles are passing bicyclists and pedestrians was opposed by the Teamsters Union and Washington State Patrol. In conjunction with bill sponsor, Rep. Christine Rolfes (D. 23rd), the BAW has decided to work on the issue over the summer and return with an improved bill in 2009.
The BAW is also monitoring the following bills:
- SB 6822/HB 3154 - Reducing vehicle miles traveled.
- SHB 1773/SSB 6355 - Highway tolling
- HB 1353 - Recycling beverage containers.
- HB 2797/SB 6580 - Local solutions to global warming.
- SB 5543/SHB 1625 - Motorcycle at traffic signal
Watch for action alerts in which BAW requests that you contact your local legislators.
4 February 2008
JRA Bike Shop OPEN at BikeStation
Eric Berg is the owner/mechanic of the JRA Bike Shop, operating in the front section of the BikeStation. Bike shop Hours are: Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
You can reach Eric at 206-307-1179 and his email is JRAbikes@gmail.com
4 February 2008
Bike racks coming back to Metro buses
From the Seattle Times:
Bike racks should be back on all Metro Transit buses today, according to agency spokeswoman Thielke. Early last month, Metro removed racks that could hold up to three bikes from about 400 buses. There were concerns about the operation of that style of rack, so Metro temporarily replaced them with two-bike racks.
But there was a shortage of two-bike racks, so some buses were left without a rack. Two-bike racks have now been located for all Metro buses, and installation is scheduled to be completed today. Thielke says Metro hopes eventually to switch back to the three-bike racks.
29 January 2008
Transportation Advocacy Day in Olympia
Let your legislators know about your interest in bicycling as part of the state and local transportation system and for recreation. Come speak to them in person by joining with other bicyclists, walkers and transit promoters during the annual Transportation Advocacy Day, January 29th in Olympia.
The Bicycle Alliance, along with Transportation Choices, Feet First, All Aboard Washington and other groups is behind the organization of this event. Food and beverages, inspiration, and key talking points will be provided. There are even some free rides - on a first-come basis - for the trip to Olympia from residents of the Seattle area, courtesy of FlexCar, the car-sharing company.
We'd love your presence. This is a great opportunity to get lawmakers' attention and ensure they are
informed about issues important to bicyclists by hearing directly from bicyclists. Last year, we had
representation from across the state.
If you can only do one act of bicycle advocacy this year, this is one!
This will be a high energy day of talking bicycling to politicians, some of whom may have never ridden a bike as an adult. Help them get educated on the role of good road design, funding for bicycling and policies that encourage a balanced transportation system. A big thank you to BAW members Bob and Katherine Duffy, who are taking care of the logistics in Olympia once again.
Participants will rendezvous at 8:00am on Tuesday, January 29th at:
United Churches of Olympia
110 Eleventh Ave. SE
Olympia, WA 98501
If you are interested in participating, let us know by by January 15. You can register online at the website of our partners Transportation Choices Coalition.
Directions to The United Churches of Olympia (located on the corner of Capitol Way and 11th Avenue SE). You can figure out directions from this online map.
What is the Bicycle Alliance legislative agenda for 2008? We are targeting just a few issues because this is a short, non-budget session meaning little new is likely to happen. Even so, we'd like to see:
- Driver's Education - adding curriculum on bike-pedestrian safety to public school drivers' ed classes. We've already succeeded in having a "share the road" section included in all private drivers' ed classes through the Department of Licensing.
- Student Transportation Education - a revised version of our Mobility Education Bill from last year that would pilot bike-ped-transit classes for elementary school students.
- Recycling at Events - House Bill 2056 leftover from last year would require permitted gatherings to provide glass, plastic and aluminum recycling of purchased beverages.
- Safe Passing Minimum - makes existing law more specific by adding three feet as the minimum safe passing distance.
There will also be legislation on Local Action for Climate Change which the BAW will likely support because it will favor bicycles as environmentally-friendly transportation.
24 January 2008
Bellevue Transportation Commission Reviews Ped-Bike Plan
The Bellevue Transportation Commission will be discussing the Walk & Roll 2007 Pedestrian-Bike Plan at their upcoming meeting:
Jan. 24, 2008, 6:30 p.m.
Room 1E-113, City Hall
450 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue WA
Come to the meeting and tell the Commission you want improved connectivity of bike facilities in Bellevue!
You can also provide your input with their new interactive mapping system that allows you to view and comment on proposals to improve Bellevue's network of bikeways, sidewalks, and trails. [if it doesn't work with your browser, try using Firefox]
15 January 2008
Return Your Ballots!
As required by the bye-laws of the Bicycle Alliance,
all members have been mailed a copy of the ballot to select candidates for the Board of Directors.
There are four board members seeking re-election and four open places.
Members may vote for one or more candidates.
Members may vote either by returning the ballot form to Bicycle Alliance of Washington PO Box 2904, Seattle WA 98111
or electronically by sending an e-mail to info@bicyclealliance.org.
Ballots are due January 15, 2008
4 January 2008
Triple bike racks (temporarily?) removed from Metro Buses
There have been problems with some bikes falling off the triple bike racks on the bus fleet and Metro is taking this very seriously. Here's the text of their notice:
CYCLIST ALERT-Updated Jan. 4, 2008
Starting Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008, bike racks will not be available on some Metro Transit routes and trips.
Some bike racks are being removed due to rack-operating concerns, and will be replaced in the coming weeks as they become available.
This change affects all bus trips on routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 12, 13, 14, 36, 49 and 70, and some trips on routes 7, 43 and 44.
The concerns regard bikes remaining tightly secured to the 3-position bike racks. Metro is working with the manufacturer to resolve the issues. In the meantime, all 3-bike racks are being removed. The goal is to temporarily replace them with 2-bike racks, but there are currently not enough of the 2-bike racks to equip every vehicle in Metro's fleet.
During the transition, it is possible that some buses may or may not have racks when or where cyclists expect them. It is not possible for Metro staff to know ahead of time if a bus has a rack. Cyclists are reminded that rack use is first come, first served, and, with the exception of bikes that fold safely, bicycles may not be carried inside buses.
Metro appreciates your patience while this issue is being resolved. Please check this site for updates.
Metro just updated the bus bike rack info on their website. Check there for updates.
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28 November 2007
Issaquah-Highpoint Regional Trail Connector Opens
by Kent Peterson, Commuting Program Director
Sometimes I go rather far afield for my job, like this past July when I rode all around the state. November 28th, I got to stick close to home, representing the Bicycle Alliance at the official opening of the Issaquah-High Point Regional Trail connector. You have to come up with something to say at these things, so I got up early and jotted a few notes. I knew I'd be talking after the mayor and the council people and the various transportation folks had said their pieces and pretty much thanked everyone. I wanted to keep things brief but still say something. This is what I said:
A couple of weeks ago I was at the opening of the new REI here in town, chatting with a fellow. Most of the time he's working at one of the REI stores in the southwest but he'd come to Issaquah to help open the new store. "You're lucky to live here," he said to me and when he found out I'd lived here for the past 14 years he added, "I bet it's changed a lot."
And I found myself telling this fellow how the space where the REI and the Safeway and the Target store are now had all been an open meadow and how old-timers remember back to when the 12th Avenue Cafe was on 12th Avenue and how there used to be cows grazing right across the street from my kid's elementary school. But mostly I told him how we still have salmon in the creek, and while some of the old farms are becoming condos, others are becoming parks. I told him how Rainier Boulevard was changed to better manage run-off, how abandoned rail lines have been turned into trails, how folks are working to clean up litter on the roadsides.
And I told him about the trail to High Point and the path under the freeway and along the shores of Lake Sammamish. How folks can walk and bike to places instead of driving and how the pieces link together in a greenway. How folks who never set foot or wheel on these paths still get value from them, for when you or I are hiking or walking on these paths, we're not sitting in a car stuck in traffic on Front Street. How every bike trip that's not a car trip helps keep the air just a bit cleaner.
We all make choices. How we vote, how we spend our money, how we spend our time, all these things really do matter. Ultimately, as Gandhi said, "actions express priorities." These trails and the bits of green we all share and enjoy and depend on are here because good people have put in a lot of work to make sure these things are not only here today, but here for our grand-kids and for the salmon, the heron, the frogs and all the rest of the world.
A lot of non-glamorous work goes into making a livable town. Lots of boring meetings, a lot of argument, a lot of compromise. To actually do things takes money, time and lots of good old-fashioned heavy lifting. It's really amazing that anything ever gets done.
But things like the Highpoint connector do get done and we owe a huge debt of thanks to the people who have put in all the work to make this happen. And now is when we roll up our sleeves and pitch in somewhere. Issaquah is a great place to live, but there still is plenty of work to do.
We are lucky to live here but it's the kind of luck Bruce Springsteen wrote about and I'm going to take the liberty to paraphrase the Boss just a little bit:
"When it comes to luck, we make our own
we've got dirt on our hands, but we're building a home."
You can read more about the new trail on Kent's Blog
30 November 2007
Oh so cool - REI grant for schools
The Bicycle Alliance's Safe Routes to School (SRtS) Program continues to add to its list of successes. The program recently received a grant from REI for a project titled Ride Your Bike to Cool the Planet. The Bicycle Alliance will work with 4 schools in King County to get kids to make the connection between global warming and the role of bicycling as a pollution-free form of transportation. Students will be taught about the concept of a carbon footprint with the ultimate goal of getting more kids to ride their bicycles.
The Bicycle Alliance, along with Feet First, formed and continues to operate the Center for Safe Routes to School in Washington State. The Center continues to receive a lot of attention and one of the tools it is developing is being considered to be a pilot project for a SRtS/Commute Trip Reduction Study being funded by the state legislature. During Walk to School Month (October) the Center provided advice and thousands of incentives to schools across Washington.
21 November 2007
Can't get no respect? Get some insight.
Take a browse at this article from Alan Durning, of the Sightline Institute, an environmental think tank based in Seattle and covering the Pacific Northwest. Read more from their ongoing series of articles that looks at the issue of "bicycle neglect", why most Cascadian cities don't treat bicycles as transportation, which communities are doing the best job, and what's at stake.
Nov-Dec 2007
Comment on Burke-Gilman Train DEIS
The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (36.10MB PDF) (EIS)
for the Burke-Gilman Trail Redevelopment Project
is being released for public review and comment.
A thirty (30) day comment period for interested citizens and agencies will begin on November 1, 2007 and end on December 3, 2007.
Upon request, the County will be extending the deadline for written comments to 5:00
p.m., December 18, 2007.
The Draft EIS is available for review at the following locations:
- Seattle Public Library, Lake City Branch — 12501 28th Ave. N.E., Seattle, WA
- Lake Forest Park Public Library — 17171 Bothell Way N.E., Lake Forest Park, WA
- Kenmore Library — 18138 73rd N.E., Kenmore, WA
- Bothell Regional Library — 18215 98th Ave. N.E., Bothell, WA
- Shoreline Library — 345 N.E. 175th, Shoreline, WA
Written comments may be sent to:
Gina Auld King County Facilities Management Division
King Street Center
201 South Jackson Street, #700,
Seattle, WA 98104
or sent via e-mail to fmd.sepacomments@kingcounty.gov.
If you have any questions about this proposal, or about the Draft EIS, please contact Gina Auld at (206) 263-7281.
Nov 2007 - Jan 2008
Destination 2030 - Long Range Transportation Plan for Puget Sound
The Puget Sound Regional Council is updating Destination 2030, the region's long range transportation plan, and is asking for input on how to best keep the region moving as it grows by 1.5 million people.
Originally adopted in 2001, Destination 2030 lays out a strategy to meet regional transportation demands in King, Kitsap, Pierce, and Snohomish counties until the year 2030.
The updated plan will extend the plan horizon to 2040 and evaluate ways to keep the region moving and the economy prospering as the population grows by 1.5 million. At the same time, we must protect the environment, natural resources, and quality of life that people in the region enjoy. The updated plan will continue to meet federal transportation planning requirements and state Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements, and will align with the Regional Economic Strategy and the updated Regional Growth Strategy - VISION 2040.
For more information contact, Mike Cummings, Program Manager at 206-464-6172 or mcummings@psrc.org.
Public Scoping Meetings:
Seattle: January 10, Noon to 2 p.m.
PSRC, 1011 Western Avenue, #500Bellevue: January 15, 4 to 7 p.m.
City Hall, 450 - 110th AvenueBremerton: January 16, 4 to 7 p.m.
Sylvan Way Library, 1301 Sylvan WayTacoma: January 23, 4 to 7 p.m.
Main Library, 1102 Tacoma Ave. S.Auburn: January 24, 4 to 7 p.m.
City Hall, 25 West Main StreetEverett: January 28, 4 to 7 p.m.
Main Library, 2702 Hoyt Avenue
Public Comment Form (also can be used to sign up for email list).
15 November 2007
Looking for a few good Board Members
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington (BAW) is currently seeking candidates to fill three vacancies on its board of directors. The BAW is an alliance of bicycle clubs, advocacy groups and individual bicyclists from around the state. The BAW mission is to advocate for bicyclists and promote policies that result in adequate funding for a complete non-motorized transportation infrastructure and to ensure that bicycling is recognized and embraced as an essential component of a balanced transportation system. The Bicycle Alliance works to increase the percentage of all types of bicycle ridership in Washington, as well as to encourage communities throughout the state to become bicycle-friendly. The Bicycle Alliance acts as a statewide clearinghouse for bicycle education and advocacy.
We are seeking cyclists who can commit the time and energy to make Washington a better place for all bicyclists. Our board is actively involved in setting policies, establishing goals and actively participating in fund-raising. In addition, the BAW encourages cyclists who can bring a geographic balance and good connections within the cycling community, funding or policy making realm to join our board.
The board meets both in person and by conference call 9-10 times a year. Board members are typically involved in areas of specialization, such as fund-raising, legislation etc between board meetings.
If you are looking for a leadership opportunity to make Washington a great place for all bicyclists please consider serving on the BAW board of directors. For more information contact Julie Mercer at mercerdesigns@comcast.net phone 206.935.2330 or Bobby Mullins at bmullin@rei.com phone 206.286.9527.
13 November 2007
Raising a Beer for our Volunteers!
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington hosted a party at the Pike Pub and Brewery Tuesday November 13th to show our appreciation for the faboulous volunteers who made the auction happen.
Achieving success at the auction is very much a team effort. Eighty-two volunteers logged 720 hours of their time over the weeks before and on the night of the auction, October 27. "I was overwhelmed by the hard work and enthusiasm of the huge group of volunteers who managed the nuts and bolts of the Auction," said Membership director Mark Canizaro.
Photos by Gary Strauss show some of the volunteers (and staff) who attended the party:
5 November 2007
Lighting the way to safety with Get Lit ride
They say it's better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness and on Monday night, November 5th 2007, volunteers gathered not with candles but with LED lights, bicycles and reflective gear. The mission was to celebrate and promote safe night-time cycling.
Thanks to funds provided by Seattle cycling attorney John Duggan, proceeds from the "Share the Road" license plate program, various individual donors and support from the bicycle component company Planet Bike, the Bicycle Alliance of Washington provides bicycle lights to low-income cyclists through a program called Get Lit. Riders gathered at the Seattle Bike Station and then rode to deliver lights to Goodwill Industries, Union Gospel Mission and Plymouth Housing Group for distribution. Other light recipients include Bike Works in Columbia City, the Salvation Army, Spokane's Pedals-2-People and various homeless and low-income individuals.
It was a beautiful night for a ride and various drivers and pedestrians had great questions and comments for the well-lit, highly visible and enthusiastic group of riders. The ride concluded at the Seattle Bike Station with hot cider, a comparison of various riders lights and gear and reflective stickers for all.
More information on Get Lit is available from Commute Trip Director (206) 224-9252 Ext. 304.
November 2007
Auction attendees and volunteers show their support for bicycle advocacy
The 15th Annual Bicycle Alliance gala dinner and auction took on a Texas twang this year with the voice of auctioneer Gayle Stallings stirring up some lively bidding. Proceeds from the silent and live auction brought in some $75,000 for bicycle advocacy. Stallings is a former executive director of the Texas Bicycle Coalition who changed careers after attending an earlier Bicycle Alliance auction in Seattle.
Although overall income from the auction was down from 2006, there were some encouraging signs: live auction items generally sold for more than estimated value and the new the Big Board holds potential to further increase the evening's sales.
Another positive development was the appeal to have attendees pay for their purchases by check instead of by credit card. "People really heard our request," said Membership director Mark Canizaro. "We saved $1000 in credit car fees this year over last year. That's $1000 more that goes directly into bicycle advocacy."
Achieving success at the auction is very much a team effort. Eighty-two volunteers logged 720 hours of their time over the weeks before and on the night of the auction, October 27. "I was overwhelmed by the hard work and enthusiasm of the huge group of volunteers who managed the nuts and bolts of the Auction," said Canizaro.
The first-year venue of the Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center proved a big hit. With no pillars to block views and a built-in sound system, gala guests got to see and hear the proceedings completely. The 2008 auction will be back at Fisher Pavilion next fall, and Stallings will again be the auctioneer. Check back here for the actual date.
5 November 2007
Light up the night: take part in the Get Lit bike ride
To celebrate the winter clock-change and the transition to riding on darkened streets, the Bicycle Alliance of Washington invites you to take part in a special ride. The Get Lit ride is to promote the importance of safe nighttime riding and the use of lights and conspicuous clothing. To help ensure that all riders have access to front and rear lights, the Bicycle Alliance will donate lights to a number of organizations to distribute to their members.
The alliance invites bicyclists to take part in the free Get Lit ride November 5 in Seattle. Riders will meet at Bikestation Seattle at 4:30 PM. After a brief discussion of safe night cycling, riders will ride as a group to the Union Gospel Mission, The Salvation Army, Plymouth Housing Group, Goodwill and Bike Works. At each of these locations bicycle lights will be delivered to be distributed at no cost to low-income cyclists. These lights have been provided by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington's Get Lit program as part of an ongoing effort to improve road safety for all cyclists in Washington. Major funding for this program has been provided by attorney John Duggan, individual donors and Bicycle Alliance income from the Washington State Share The Road license plates.
All riders must register at the start of the ride and have lights, reflective gear and a bicycle helmet. An award will be given for the best-lit cyclist and the most creatively lit cyclist. All riders will receive reflective stickers. Hot cider will be provided at the end of the ride and at BikeWorks.
When: November 5 (Monday) at 4:30pm
Start: BikeStation Seattle, 311 3rd Avenue South.
Finish: BikeStation Seattle
Cost: free (disclaimer form must be filled in)
Distance: approximately 10 miles
November 2007
Bicycle Alliance Endorses Proposition 1
The Board of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington has endorsed the Roads and Transit (Proposition 1 in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties) ballot measure in November's election. The Board's endorsement is based upon the analysis of the proposition and a recommendation by BAW's Legislative and Statewide Issues Committee. The Committee includes representatives from bicycle clubs and bicycle advocates from around the state. The Committee's evaluation also included discussion with others and review of analyses performed by both supporters and opponents of the measure.
While this package has good things for bicyclists, we acknowledge that it is far from perfect. BAW recognizes that it was created in a political environment and is a result of negotiation from those with differing viewpoints. It was also created to make a big difference in transportation in the Puget Sound region for the next 50 years. We believe the Bicycle Alliance should support this package and make a public endorsement. While many of us have personal reservations about adding road lanes and the associated environmental impacts of additional motor vehicles, we considered the overall content of the measure based on its merits for bicycling and the progress towards creating a more balanced transportation system. For members in the three counties who will be voting on this proposition, the following is part of the part of the analyses used by the BAW Legislative and State-wide Issues Committee in reaching its decision. We encourage everyone to become well informed on the issue.
- Do the roads projects include bicycle elements where appropriate?
Yes. New bike lanes across the 520 bridge, a Highway 509 bike path, the Spokane Street viaduct, several bike lane crossings of I-5 in Snohomish County, and $25 million for non-motorized improvements in Pierce County are just a few examples. See www.rtid.org for a complete list of roads projects by county. - Will the regional light rail and transportation improvements benefit bicyclists?
Yes. Some of the key corridors mentioned above will be a huge benefit. Light rail and multi-modal rail and ferry stations in the package can also be a benefit to bicyclists. - Will the package impact land use in a way that will benefit cyclists?
60% of the funding for this package funds a 50-mile expansion of Sound Transit light rail, from Lynnwood to Tacoma, from Seattle to Redmond. That alone will help to drive compact, bike and pedestrian-friendly development patterns. See www.soundtransit.org for a description of the rail package. Improved land use will lead to more walkable and bikeable communities. - Is there the ability to include bicycle facilities in projects not fully defined?
The roads portion of this package is locally controlled. That means bicycle advocates can influence the design with local government and elected officials. We will need to work with them to make sure the bike elements in the projects are retained, and to develop good designs for projects still being developed. - If the measure fails, will the next proposal be better or worse?
We believe that the roads and transit measure would likely provide a more balanced transportation system than future ad hoc proposals put forth by special interests groups. The population of Washington and the Puget Sound region will continue to increase. We believe that the Roads and Transit measure may help to shape transportation in the manner desired by bicyclists as compared to other possible proposals should the measure fail. - Why is the Board of the Bicycle Alliance supporting the measure while some bicyclist and
environmentalist groups are opposed to it?
The measure contains both positive and negative features. We believe that the long-term benefits from this measure out-weigh the negative effects. This measure has the potential to reshape land-use around Puget Sound and create communities that are less automobile dependent. It represents an opportunity that can direct growth in ways that is more compatible with bicycling and walking. Other groups may believe that the negative features outweigh or are not acceptable, regardless of the positive features.
October 2007
Bellevue seeks comments as part of Bike-Ped plan update
After months of public input, including focus groups and online surveys,
the City of Bellevue has drafted potential updates and improvements to the network of bike
and pedestrian-friendly paths, lanes and trails in Bellevue. The
draft network plan report
includes 188 miles of bikeway, 85 miles of sidewalk, and 25 miles of trail facilities.
It's aimed at supporting pedestrians and bicyclists with varying levels of experience.
Viewable/Downloadable copy of the
Draft Network Plan Report [PDF].
The city now wants to hear what you think about these project recommendations.
You can provide your input with their new interactive mapping system
that allows you to view and comment on proposals to improve Bellevue's network of bikeways,
sidewalks, and trails.
Public meetings are planned for the following dates and places:
- Oct. 22 at 6 p.m., City Council, Room 1E-113, Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave. N.E.
- Oct. 23 at 6:45 p.m., Eastside Runners Group, Kirkland Kingsgate Library, 12315 N.E. 143rd, Kirkland
- Oct. 25 at 5:30 p.m., Transportation Commission, Room 1E-113, Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave. N.E.
- Nov. 7 at 10 a.m., Chinese-speaking residents (in collaboration with Chinese Information and Service Center), North Bellevue Community Center lunchroom, 4063 148th Ave. N.E.
21 October 2007
Celebrate SE Boulevard Bike Lane opening
When: Sunday, October 21 at 10:00 AM
Where: Start at Fourth and Sherman; Stop at 30th and SE Boulevard/Great Harvest Bread Company
Why: To Celebrate the completion of the SE Boulevard bike lanes
Join Spokane's Bicycle Advisory Board (BAB), the Bicycle Alliance's executive director, and cyclists from around the region for a bike ride to celebrate the opening of the SE Boulevard bike lanes. Riders will depart from 4th and Sherman at 10:15 AM to ride the new and previously existing portions of the bike lane to 30th and SE Boulevard. We will then meet at Great Harvest Bread Company for a no-host celebration of camaraderie, coffee, hot chocolate and fresh baked goods. This just completed project is the first of what the BAB plans to be a cohesive network of bicycle lanes, routes, paths and boulevards that will connect neighborhoods to the city's core, providing safer and more enjoyable alternatives to driving in and around Spokane.
16-25 October 2007
Burke-Gilman Trail Closures Oct 16-25
Work announcement from Seattle Department of Transportation:
Burke-Gilman Trail Closed at 30th NE and NE Blakely
Closure extended through October 25thSEATTLE-The Burke-Gilman Trail, near the northeast corner of the University Village, is closed for about 80 feet at 30th Avenue NE and NE Blakely Street. SDOT is reconstructing the trail due to tree root damage. The work involves removal of asphalt, installing a root barrier and replacing the trail asphalt. The work was to be completed and the trail reopened by late tomorrow, Friday (October 19th), however, the closure will continue possibly until Thursday, October 25 due to a delay in delivery of construction materials. Trail users should use caution approaching the area and follow the signage directing bicyclists along the edge of the trail on Blakely.
This is the first of ten root damage repair work locations on the trail heading north, with the final location being just north of Matthews Beach. The work, which will make for more pleasant and safer travel, has been held until now in order to avoid the peak recreational trail usage occurring during the summer and early fall. Future closures will be announced as the work dates near, weather permitting.
The Seattle Department of Transportation builds, maintains and operates Seattle's $8 billion transportation infrastructure. To further Mayor Nickels' goal to get Seattle moving, the department manages short- and long-term investments in streets, bridges, pavement and trees, that better connect the city with the region.
For more info, please contact: Peg Nielsen, 206.684.8114
17-20 October 2007
Utility work along I-90 Trail through Mercer Slough Oct 17-20
King County will be conducting sewer line inspections in Mercer Slough Nature Park in Bellevue from Wednesday, Oct. 17 - Saturday, Oct. 20. The length of sewer pipe to be inspected runs underneath the wetlands adjacent to the bicycle/pedestrian trail between I-90 and the Mercer Slough Boat Launch Access.
Trail users should be aware of work equipment, narrowed trail near testing sites and cordoned off sections. Work will take place weekdays 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Trail users should obey posted signs and proceed with caution in both directions between I-90 and the Mercer Slough Boat Access Road while the testing occurs.
For more info, please contact:
Doug Marsano
Community Relations Planner
King County Wastewater Treatment Division
206-684-1235
Doug.Marsano@kingcounty.gov
1 October 2007
Personalized Share the Road License Plates available October 1
Already have a Share the Road license plate? Now you can personalize your plate instead of just being a number. To find out what you can put on your plate and how to get it, check out our Share the Road Plate FAQ page.
September 2007
Bicycle Alliance gets new Phone System
After years of using an out-dated and inefficient phone system, the Bicycle Alliance has a new, hi-tech phone system. It will make the operation of our office more effective. All calls are now answered automatically. You can enter the extension numbers listed below at any time. Here's a list of our staff extensions:
- Executive director Gordon Black - Ext. 300
- Membership director Mark Canizaro - Ext. 301
- Safe Routes to School Dave Janis - Ext. 302
- Special projects manager Louise McGrody - Ext. 303
- Commute director Kent Peterson - Ext. 304
- (if you want to reach one of our wonderful volunteers, call Ext. 305)
29-30 September 2007
Volunteers needed at Annual Sustainable Ballard Festival
The Bicycle Alliance is a sponsor of the 4th Annual Sustainable Ballard Festival being held September 29 (11:00-6:00) and September 30 (11:00-5:00) at the Ballard Commons Park. It is a wonderful event attended by thousands. We are looking for volunteers to help us staff our table. If you are interested in helping for a few hours on either day, please contact Dave Janis at 206.224.9252 or Davej@bicyclealliance.org. To learn more about the festival, go to sustainableballard.org
Hope to see you there!
24 September 2007
Volunteers needed at Transit Tunnel reopening
The Seattle downtown transit tunnel reopens September 24th and there will be a celebration to mark the occasion. The Bicycle Alliance will be present with a table and leaflets on BikeStation parking and Bike Buddy Program, as well as maps and information about cycling.
We're looking for volunteers to help out. Hours are 10am to 2pm on September 24.
Contact Kent Peterson at 206.224.9252 or kentp@bicyclealliance.org
if you are available.
Metro has announced some Important safety changes for bicyclists in the tunnel. Read the details in: Bikes in Seattle Transit Tunnel [pdf].
22 September 2007
Columbia City CAN Kick-Off Event
Saturday, September 22nd 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Mayor Nickels to present at 10:00 am
Bike Works, Cascade Bicycle Club, the Bicycle Alliance, the Bikery and Tutta Bella Restaurant are pleased to announce a new collaboration with the City of Seattle and over seventy community partners and local businesses who are coming together to inspire concrete action on climate change. The community-wide effort, called Seattle Climate Action Now (Seattle CAN!), invites all Seattle residents to become part of the solution to climate change by taking concrete steps to increase home energy efficiency and transportation efficiency. The campaign also provides avenues for civic engagement and collective action. The practical steps promoted in the campaign will help build a stronger, healthier community for our families today and will also help ensure a brighter tomorrow for our children and grandchildren.
Come learn about climate pollution reduction and how biking more and driving less can be better for you and the planet. You can learn about bike maintenance, find out about how to get started in bike commuting, how to fit a bike and a helmet, figure out the best routes to ride, get local bike maps, learn about combined bike & bus commutes, and much more.
Join us for food, fun and refreshments and enter a raffle to win a free bike!
Seattle Climate Action Now! offers three tools:
1. Climate Action & Resource Web Portal www.SeattleCAN.org is a one-stop-shop designed to help you take climate action. The site includes:Bike Works, Cascade Bicycle Club, the Bicycle Alliance and the Bikery will continue to look for ways to engage our members throughout this year-long campaign and your input is vital. Contact us if you would like to help plan future events and activities. Working together, Seattle CAN make a difference!
- Get Started Guide for Climate Action in Seattle
- Zerofootprint Climate Action Planner - Tool to help residents calculate their carbon footprint, create an action plan for reducing it, track progress over time, and connect with others taking action
- Partners & Resources - Information about campaign partners and resources to help you take climate action
- Community Events Calendar
2. Climate Action Partnerships
The diverse network of community-based, nonprofit, and business partners who are collaborating to get the word out about climate action each bring a unique area of expertise and perspective. To learn more about who is participating in the campaign and why - or for information about how to join as an organizational partner - visit www.SeattleCAN.org
3. Community Action Days
Community events designed to help Seattle residents increase home energy efficiency (fall-winter emphasis) and reduce transportation emissions (spring-summer emphasis). Home energy and transportation are Seattle's two largest sources of climate pollution. The events will emphasize collective action, where possible, and will provide opportunities for partners to co-promote their activities and resources.
20 September 2007
City of Kent Transportation Master Plan Open House
City of Kent Transportation Master Plan Open House
Thursday, Sept 20, 2007, 2 - 8pm
Green River Community College
Kent Campus at Kent Station
417 Ramsey Way, Suite 112, Room 245
Would you like to see more safe biking facilities in Kent? Then don't miss this opportunity to comment on Kent's future transportation system, including bike and pedestrian facilities! The proposed bicycle network will be on display at the Open House. Please review the information and make comments--pro and con!
There will not be a formal presentation. Drop by anytime.
20 September 2007
Bicycle Alliance Reception in Spokane
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is hosting a reception in Spokane!
Meet our new Executive Director, Gordon Black. Meet other Bike Alliance members, movers and shakers in the local cycling community, and folks who care about safe cycling in Spokane.
Bicycle Alliance of Washington Reception
Thursday, Sept 20, 6:30-8:30 pm
Mountain Gear Corporate Office
6021 E Mansfield in Spokane Valley
(pizza and refreshments provided)
Please RSVP by Sept 17 if you plan to attend!
Respond to Louise at 206.224.9252 or louisemc@bicyclealliance.org.
19 September 2007
Join us for a Walk on the Fish Lake Trail in Spokane!
Wednesday, September 19 at 6:00 pm
Meet in St Matthews Institutional Baptist Church parking lot
2815 W Sunset Blvd in Spokane
Co-hosted by Fish Lake Trail Action Group & Bicycle Alliance of Washington
Dan Shaffer of the Fish Lake Trail Action Group will lead us on a walk of the northern portion of the Fish Lake Trail corridor and provide us with an update on our trail project. We'll check out the temporary trailhead that was built during the REI work party in May. This is a great opportunity to explore a portion of the trail if you have not yet done so. Gordon Black, the new ED of Bicycle Alliance, will also be on this walk. Be sure to say hi!
There is a scheduled church activity that evening, so bathroom facilities will be available. They are also doing a dinner at 5:30 and have invited hungry walkers to join them if desired!
19 September 2007
Help Seattle DOT count bicycles in downtown Seattle
Help the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) help us! They are looking for volunteers for the downtown bicycle counts on Wednesday, September 19th. These counts are important as they help us justify the need for more facilities. They want to place at least one person at each of 29 counting locations.
The locations are all between Belltown and Pioneer Square, and each volunteer can expect to be in position and counting from 6:30 to 9:00 AM. If you are interested,contact Doug Cox of SDOT at Douglas.Cox@seattle.gov or 206-684-8264. He will provide you with instructions, forms, and location assignments & maps.
16 September 2007
Tukwila gets rolling: tour of Tukwila bike/ped facilities
Calling all south King County riders. The City of Tukwila is hosting a bike ride September 16 as part of its examination of bike and pedestrian facilities. The city wants to hear from trails users about conditions and areas ripe for improvement.
Ride departs from Tukwila City Hall, 6200 Southcenter Blvd, at 10am (distance: about 7 miles; pace: leisurely with frequent stops).
To attend the ride, RSVP assistant city planner Jaimie Reavis at (206) 431-3659 or jreavis@ci.tukwila.wa.us by September 4.
15 September 2007
Screening of "Ayamye" benefitting Village Bicycle Project
The flyer below highlights the OTM sponsored benefit screening of "Ayamye" in Spokane 7pm Saturday 9/15, at the New Magic Lantern Theatre, 25 W Main, in Spokane. Big thanks to the Saranac, The Magic Lantern Film Society, the Bicycle Alliance of WA, and Dave Peckham of the Village Bicycle Project for helping make this happen.
26 August 2007
Sustainable Seattle Photo Shoot Aug 26 - Volunteers Needed!
Would you like to be part of a transportation photo shoot? Here's your chance! Join International Sustainable Solutions Sunday August 26th in partnership with regional agencies such as SDOT, King County Metro and Sound Transit for a series of photos showing the benefits of moving people on foot, bicycles, buses, or light rail, rather than in their cars.
If you would like to volunteer, please contact Kristie Maxim at kristie.maxim@onrequestimages.com. Please specify if you can bring a bicycle, a car, or neither. [Info for photo shoot participants]
It's a great opportunity to help create compelling images for a transportation alternatives message! The City of Seattle is closing 2nd Avenue near Cherry for this photo shoot. Mayor Nickels and County Executive Sims are both expected to participate. OnRequest Images is providing pro bono professional photographic support. The photos will be used in a Commuter Toolkit, a series of materials highlighting the importance of developing robust alternatives to people driving alone in their cars, and illustrating some of the key transportation initiatives now under way.
Planned photos include:
- 177 cars (based on our current average of 1.15 people per car)
- 200 people standing without a vehicle, showing how much space is wasted when people drive alone in cars
- Three simulated buses with volunteers boarding (an average bus carries about 60+ riders)
- 200 riders in the simulated space of one Link light rail train
- 200 bicyclists
Click on the following links for more detailed info on the Commuter Toolkit and what volunteering entails: Guidelines to participate in photo shoot
11 August 2007
Tour de Fat Fun and Photos
Tour de Fat was once again a raving success! We raised over $7000 on beer sales alone, and we'll get more money for the automobile that Jeremy Vrablik donated. Bike Works was the co-beneficiary of the event and raised money from sales of t-shirts, caps, and other cool schwag.
If you want to donate YOUR gas-guzzling behemoth to the Bicycle Alliance (don't worry--we sell it for the $$, we won't be driving it!), please contact Mark.
Couldn't make it? Well, check out all the fun these folks had (click photo to enlarge):
July 2007
Kirkland launches Cycling survey
As a part of revising The Non-motorized Plan, the City of Kirkland is gathering data about how people bike in Kirkland. We'd like to know what you like and what you'd like to see improved. We'd also like to know how you would prioritize spending of funds to make biking easier. Take the survey and give us your opinions! We're looking for responses from everyone/anyone who cycles in Kirkland, so please forward this email to your family, friends and co-workers.
Here's a link to the bicycle survey.
David Godfrey
Transportation Engineering Manager
City of Kirkland Public Works
dgodfrey@ci.kirkland.wa.us
(425) 587-3865There's also a walking survey you can fill out.
6-20 August 2007 (approx.)
Construction to Cause Brief Disruption of Burke-Gilman Trail
Private construction activity near the Burke-Gilman Trail will disrupt both bicycle and pedestrian use of the Trail between NE 125th Street and NE 135th Street for an estimated 10 work days, excluding weekends, beginning Monday, August 6.
The paved trail will be fenced off for a distance of approximately 400 feet north of NE 125th. The unpaved running and walking path along the east side of the Trail will be open for use. Signage will direct cyclists to dismount and walk their bikes through this section of the Trail.
Parks regrets the need to close the Trail in the summer, but this temporary reduction in the usability of the Trail is necessary for safety reasons. A private construction project will include the installation of several horizontal drain lines into the hillside above the Trail. The drains are intended to release excess groundwater that could contribute to continued sloughing of the hillside or a landslide. The City is cooperating with this work by allowing access from the Burke-Gilman Trail.
Contact: Dewey Potter, 206-684-7241
dewey.potter@seattle.gov
www.seattle.gov/parks
19 July 2007
Burke-Gilman Groundbreaking
You are invited to a Groundbreaking Event this Thursday, July 19, from 10 am to 11 am at Golden Gardens Park, west side of the intersection of Seaview Ave NW and Seaview Place NW.
This will be breaking ground for the Burke-Gilman Trail Extension NW 60th St. to Golden Gardens Park. For map and information go to www.Seattle.gov/transportation/bgtrailext.htm. Here is a flyer for the groundbreaking event [pdf].
July-Sept 2007
Temporary Changes to Bike Lane Ramp on Fremont Bridge
SDOT Traffic Advisory:
(Seattle)-Starting the week of June 25th and through September, bicyclists traveling northbound on the Fremont Bridge, on the sidewalk on the east side of the bridge, will use a temporary ramp to reach the bike lane on Fremont Avenue North. The temporary ramp will be located north of the existing ramp.Through September, with the exception of three two-leaf openings per day, the north half of the bridge will remain closed and only the south half of the bridge will open for marine traffic. This will allow the contractor to upgrade the bridge mechanical and electrical system.
The temporary ramp for bicycles is needed for safety, so a truck can be parked in the location of the existing ramp, in position to move quickly onto the bridge to block traffic when the bridge opens for marine traffic. The truck will serve as an additional barricade to help prevent cars from continuing onto the north half of the bridge when the south half of the bridge is opened for marine traffic.
Thank you for your patience during this final phase of improvements on the Fremont Bridge.
For more information about the project, see site: www.seattle.gov/fremontbridge.
July 2007
BAW Commuting Program Director Tours Washington
Follow along: read Kent's Blog as he Wanders around Washington
Read articles about his journey: Getting there by bicycle - 23 July 2007, Spokane Spokesman-Review.
Message from Kent Peterson, Commuting Program Director:
The Bicycle Alliance has its headquarters in the Seattle Bike Station, so naturally we do a lot of work in the Puget Sound area. But the Bicycle Alliance is a statewide organization and one of our goals is to serve communities across the state. One day in April, as I was bike commuting in to the office, I was thinking about how I could get more familiar with the bicycling resources, concerns and conditions in other parts of the state. I was also thinking that it would be nice to take a bike tour this summer. By the time I reached the office, I had a plan which I pitched to Barb and she approved.
From July 14th through July 28th, I'll be cycling around Washington. Since I have two ears and only one mouth, I'm planning on doing at least twice as much listening as talking. I will be giving some seminars on commuting and safe riding techniques but much of the trip will be a look and learn trip for me. I'll be connecting up with Bicycle Alliance members in various locations, so I may have some civilized places to stay, but I'm also planning on doing some bicycle camping as well. I'll be blogging from the road and compiling lists of cycling related contacts, shops, and resources for the various places I'll be visiting.
Here's the basic schedule. Washington is a big state, but I've got a good background in long distance riding. I couldn't fit everything in to one loop, but I tried to come close. It looks like I'll have to do another trip at some point to cover the center of the state. On this trip I'll also go into Portland, Oregon for a bit to see how they are doing things down there.
- Sat. 7/14/2007 -- Port Townsend/Port Angeles
- Sun. 7/15/2007 -- Bellingham
- Mon. 7/16/2007 -- Hwy 20
- Tue. 7/17/2007 -- Winthrop
- Wed. 7/18/2007 -- Spokane
- Thu. 7/19/2007 -- Spokane / Cheney
- Fri. 7/20/2007 -- Walla Walla
- Sat. 7/21/2007 -- Richland/Pasco/Kennewick
- Sun. 7/22/2007 -- Yakima
- Mon. 7/23/2007 -- Mt. St. Helens
- Tue. 7/24/2007 -- Vancouver/Portland
- Wed. 7/25/2007 -- Vancouver/Portland
- Thu. 7/26/2007 -- Olympia
- Fri. 7/27/2007 -- Tacoma
- Sat. 7/28/2007 -- Seattle/Issaquah
So keep an eye out for me on the roads of Washington this July. I'd love to meet as many Bicycle Alliance members as possible and maybe ride some miles with you. Most importantly, let me know what the Bicycle Alliance can do to improve bicycling in your community.
Kent Peterson
June 2007
SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Project open houses
Enjoy some ice cream and get the latest scoop on the project. Learn more about:
- 4+2 corridor -- adding HOV lanes
- Tolling and project funding
- Eastside design collaboration
- Westside mediation process
- Supplemental draft environmental impact statement
- Pontoon construction site
- Catastrophic failure planning
Dates and Locations:
Bellevue High School
10416 Wolverine Way, Bellevue, WA
Tuesday, June 26th 4-7 PM
Off Bellevue Way Southeast, one block south of Main Street
Stevens Elementary School
1242 - 18th Avenue East, Seattle, WA
Thursday, June 28th 4-7 PM
Three blocks east of Volunteer Park
If you can't make it to these open houses, you might be able to catch the 520 team at various farmer's markets, fairs, and festivals this summer. Check out their 520 Event Calendar for dates and places.
More information at:www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR520Bridge
SR520Bridge@wsdot.wa.gov
(206)781-3922
June 2007
WSDOT Kicks Off Updated Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan
WSDOT announces the kick off its State Bicycle Facilities and Pedestrian Walkways Plan update. The plan, which is an element of Washington's Multi-modal Transportation Plan, was last updated in 1995. WSDOT has conducted a survey of public opinion about needs related to sidewalks, crosswalks, trails, and bike lanes, which will serve as the basis for the plan. As part of this effort, WSDOT will also propose a strategy for addressing these needs and improving coordination between local governments, regional agencies, and the state. For updated information related to the draft plan, please call 360-705-7258 or visit the web site: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Bike/Bike_Plan.htm.
Join WSDOT at one of four scheduled public meetings to discuss the plan, and provide comments and feedback (see dates below). Comments can also be submitted either through the web site or by calling the toll free number: 1-866-375-6729. Comments will be taken throughout the update process. All comments will be considered in the final plan, scheduled for completion in spring 2008.
June 25, 2007
6:30-8:30 PM
Public Service Center
Elections Office
1305 Franklin @ Mill Plain
Vancouver, WAJune 26th, 2007
6:30-8:30 PM
University of Washington
Gould Hall - First Floor Foyer
Seattle, WAJune 27th, 2007
6:30-8:30 PM
Spokane City Council Chambers
808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.
Spokane, WAJune 28th, 2007
6:30-8:30
Thurston Regional Planning Council
2424 Heritage Court SW, Suite A
Olympia, WA
1 June 2007
Gordon Black Selected as BAW's New ED
On May 24, the BAW Board approved the selection of Gordon Black as the new Executive Director for the Bicycle Alliance. The selection process was very competitive due to the high quality of the applicants. The attractiveness of BAW is obviously based upon the organizations past successes, the support of the membership, the wonderful, dedicated staff, and the quality of the Board.
Gordon's strong association with bicycling began in his native Scotland when he joined a bicycle club at age thirteen and has continued to this day. He has a degree in communication from Napier College in Scotland. He returned to school and obtained a BA in history and MA in teaching in 2005 from the University of Washington. He has taught history at Bainbridge High School for the past two years and will continue through the end of this school year. His work background includes 20 years experience as a journalist and writer and he has covered diverse subjects such as a health-care issues during the legislative session, technology for the Seattle Times, motorcycles, bicycles, and other trade publications. Many of you already know or know of Gordon from his long association with BAW; from the dynamite advocacy organization, Squeaky Wheels, he co-founded on Bainbridge Island; or from his time as a KUOW reporter.
Gordon is very enthused about being selected as the new ED and considers the ED position at BAW to be his dream job. The staff, board and volunteers are very excited about working with Gordon. He brings a lot of skills, ability, and energy to the ED position as our 20-year old, statewide organization continues to improve bicycling in Washington. Gordon's Scottish accent will begin to be heard around the office on a somewhat regular basis in the last week of June. Barbara Culp will be working with Gordon to ensure there is a smooth transition for the organization. Please join the Board and staff in welcoming Gordon to our organization as the new Executive Director!
Spring 2007
Big Win for Bicycles on Statewide Transportation Goals
BAW boardmember Jill Priest on the left and Genessee Atkins (Transportation Choices) on the right watch as Governor Gregoire signs SB 5412 at the end of 2007 Spring Legislative Session (Judy Clibborn, 41st District Mercer Island, Chair of Transportation Committee is standing next to the governor). This bill changes the state's transportation goals from moving cars and trucks to moving people and goods; a very important step for a bicycle-friendly Washington.
1 June 2007
BGT Extension Ground Breaking Celebration
BGT Extension Ground Breaking to be Rescheduled. Stayed tuned.
For more information and directions, please visit the Burke-Gilman Trail project web page or contact Diana Holloway, Project Manager, Seattle Department of Transportation (206) 684-3970 or diana.holloway@seattle.gov.
19 May 2007
Spokane REI Hosts Fish Lake Trail Service Project
On, Saturday, May 19th, from 9am-12pm, REI will host its second annual Fish Lake Trail Service Project. The Fish Lake Trail is part of the Rails to Trails network within the region. This year's project scope will include building a trailhead at Lindeke Street, trimming growth along the trail, proper noxious weed removal, and trail surface maintenance. The trailhead construction will include the installation of a small kiosk. In addition, we plan to have group paint over graffiti in a tunnel near Scribner Road.
Items to bring for the project: water for yourself, work gloves, and one or more of the following: rake, hoe, shovel, pruning shears, and tree trimming hand saw.
Location: Meet at St. Matthews Baptist Church, 2815 W Sunset Blvd. (parking available)
Contact: REI, 509-328-9900 or jhess@rei.com
You may register online at
www.gonzaga.edu/fishlaketrail
or contact REI at 509-328-9900.
18 May 2007
Last chance to submit comments on Seattle Bike Master Plan!
The deadline for comments will be 5 pm, May 18th, 2007. (comment period has been extended--original deadline was May 4th)
The Full Draft Plan is available at:
Draft Bicycle Master Plan.
Send your comments via email to walkandbike@seattle.gov or by phone at 206-684-3902.
18 May 2007
Bike to Work/School Day
May is Bike to Work Month, National Bike to Work Week is May 14-18, and Bike to Work/School Day is Friday May 18th. Bike to Work Day/Bike to School Day is celebrated by rides, events, and acitivities all over the country. Peruse the list below to see what's happening in your part of Washington state:
Whatcom County/Bellingham
The 10th Annual Whatcom County/Bellingham Bike to Work and School Day is Friday, May 18 this year. Hop on your bike as an alternative form of transportation on your way to work or school. Free; no registration required. Celebration Stations throughout the region run by volunteers offer snacks, prizes, giveaways and bike assistance. For more information, contact Margaux Mellott, Whatcom County EverybodyBike Coordinator at (360) 676-6974, margaux@wcog.org; or visit: www.everybodybike.comSnohomish County
Snohomish County Bike to Work gives first-time bike commuters, die-hard regulars and fair weather cyclists a chance to ride and celebrate together. Visit www.communitytransit.org/go2/biketowork to learn about our Bike to Work Day Celebration Stations the morning of May 18, our Bike to Work and Bike to School Challenges May 18-June 15 and the classes that will help get your ready for those events.King County/Seattle
Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation is coordinating Bike to Work events in the Seattle area for the month of May.Tacoma
Tacoma's events are listed at cityoftacoma.org.You can find more events listed on the League of Amerian Bicyclists website
17 May 2007
Attention Walla Walla Cyclists! Ride with the Bicycle Alliance!
Join Bicycle Alliance of Washington board chair, Ralph Wessels, members of the Transportation Improvement Board (they make decisions on funding bicycle projects!), and local cycling advocates on a social ride in Walla Walla. The ride is scheduled for Thursday, May 17 at 6:00 pm and will depart from Best Western Walla Walla Suites Inn at 7 E Oak Street. Riders will return to the start point by 8 pm. Hungry cyclists can also join Ralph for dinner at a nearby eatery afterward.
As a board member of the Bicycle Alliance and member of the TIB, Ralph is anxious to meet local cyclists and hear what they have to say about cycling conditions in the Walla Walla region. Don't be afraid to share the good, the bad and ugly with him!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
6:00-8:00 pm
Best Western Walla Walla Suites Inn
7 E Oak Street in Walla Walla
For more information, contact Louise McGrody.
16 May 2007
Ride of Silence
Date: Wednesday, May 16, 2007Time: 7:00 pm
Where: At over 130 U.S. locations and four other countries (so far)
Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/19.3 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.
So far, rides have been planned for Everett, Tacoma, Olympia, Spokane, Walla Walla, and Seattle [note: Seattle ride starts at 6:30pm]. Last year, there were at least 8 rides in Washington State (over 700 riders participated in Seattle alone). For up-to-date ride locations and contact info, check the www.rideofsilence.org website.
If you are unfamiliar with the Ride of Silence, below is a brief history:
- In 2003 endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz was struck and killed by the mirror of a passing bus while cycling outside of Dallas. His good friend & Coach Chris Phelan organized a memorial ride in Dallas on May 18th, titled the Ride of Silence, a slow paced silent 12 mile ride to honor/remember his friend. In just a 10 day period, via email and word of mouth, over 1,000 cyclists attend. Chris thought he had closure.
- Word spread about the Ride. Chris began to get enquiries from cyclists in other cities on holding a Ride of Silence. A grassroots movement takes place.
- In 2004, Rides of Silence take place on May 18th at 7:00 PM in 50 cities in the U.S. and Canada. The Dallas Ride has 2,500 cyclists attending. It's written up in Bicycling magazine.
- Chris actively promotes the Ride. A board of directors is in place. A copyright is applied for the Ride of Silence name.
- In 2005, Rides of Silence take place on Wed. May 18th at 7:00 PM in over 100 U.S cities, 150+ worldwide, in 9 countries, on 4 continents. The Dallas ride again has 2,500 cyclists. The Dallas City Council issues a proclamation that May 18th 2005 is The Ride of Silence Day. The board applies for and receives non-profit status as an organization.
- In 2006, Rides of Silence take place in over 200 U.S cities, 250+ worldwide on Wed. May 17th at 7:00 PM, in 8 countries, across 5 continents. The Dallas ride has close to 3,000 cyclists. The Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists Andy Clarke and board member Preston Tyree attend the Dallas ride.
This is NOT a Critical Mass Ride. There are no shirts or items for sale, there's no fee or registration. Each ride is approximately 10-12 miles long, is ridden at a 12 MPH pace, and is Silent. It's not just a club ride. It's a ride for Moms, Dads, brothers & sisters, family & friends, beginning cyclists to the racers, anyone who wishes to honor a fellow cyclist that has been killed or injured by a motorist while out riding and to let them know they MUST Share the Road with us.
Participants are asked to wear a black arm band to honor a cyclist who's been killed, and/or a red arm band to honor a cyclist that has been injured. The Ride's date purposely coincides with National Bike Safety Month and Week.
12 May 2007
Chief Sealth Trail Grand Opening Celebration
Between Beacon Ave S and MLK Way, just north of Myrtle St
(near New Holly Campus)
The Chief Sealth Trail (CST) is a new multi-purpose trial in southeast Seattle. It will be the City's newest addition to the Regional Trails Systemand will provide connections to the Mountains to Sound Greenway (via bike routes/lanes north of Beacon Avenue), and Sound Transit light rail stations along Martin Luther King Jr. Way (MLK).
To learn more, please contact Katherine Bush at katherine.bush@seattle.gov or 206-233-1084.
May 2007
New Safe Routes to School website
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington and Feet First have partnered to form the Center for Safe Routes to School in Washington State which is funded by a Transportation Enhancements grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation. The combined efforts of the organizations will provide extensive resources and assistance to communities and schools around Washington. Check out the new Safe Routes website for more information.
3 May 2007
Achieving a Bicycle-Friendly Yakima
Join representatives of the Yakima Valley Bicycle-Pedestrian Network and the Bicycle Alliance of Washington in a brainstorm and discussion of how to create a bicycle-friendly Yakima Valley.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
6:30-8:30 pm
Harman Senior Center
101 North 65th Avenue in Yakima
(Southeast corner of Summitview Ave & North 65th)
For more information, contact Louise McGrody.
26 April 2007
Mountain Biking the Great Divide
Thursday 4/26/2007 7:00 PM
2490 miles. Solo. Self-supported. The ultimate mountain biking adventure. Less than ten people each year participate in the Great Divide Race, but even fewer have completed it on a single speed mountain bike--here's your chance to hear the story first-hand from one of those adventurers.
REI & the Bike Alliance of Washington are excited to welcome Kent Peterson, who currently holds the record for a single-speed finish of the GDR. Join us for an exciting look at this ultra-endurance mountain bike race through stories, images, and tips on touring this beautiful wilderness route.
This event is FREE, but donations to the Bike Alliance of Washington will gladly be accepted.
Location: Seattle REI, 222 Yale Ave N
Contact: 206-223-1944
See you there!
16 April 2007
Susie Stephens Memorial Ride Apr 16th
Celebrate the life and passionate enthusiasm of
Susie Stephens
Monday, April 16, 5:30 PM
Bicycle Ride from
Occidental Park, Pioneer Square, Seattle.
[we're riding rain or shine]
Join the Bicycle Alliance of Washington as we celebrate Susie Stephens' life with a short ride on city streets, bicycle trails and of course, tip back a "brew" in her memory. As a bicycle advocate and former Executive Director of the Alliance, it was Susie's personal mission to use her skills and strengths to create healthy communities. So long as we learn, change and grow, her passion and mission continues in us.
Join the celebration of a vibrant individual.
Bob Myrick, of the Tacoma Wheelmen Bicycle Club, adds these words of remembrance:
I can't be there, but I will be thinking of you. I have Susie's titanium Airborne touring bike in my dining room. It has been to New Zealand where some remaining portion of her ashes were scattered in the Bay of Islands. It has also traveled to Sun Valley, Idaho over Old Man Pass down south of Mt. Adams.
I also have Sue Gygax's Bridgestone XO 3 touring bike. It has been re-painted, tuned up and taken a few trips around Tacoma. It is a sweet ride and will get mountain bike tires and do some back roads in Washington, maybe New Zealand, too.
Both of these ladies have their names attached to the Bicycle Safety Fund at the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation. I call it the Sue and Susie Fund. Proceeds are directed every year, forever, to the Bicycle Alliance of Washington. You can even have a charitable gift annuity established to fund your retirement. After you join Sue and Susie, the proceeds from your annuity can be directed to the Fund.
Susie Stephens, April 16, 1965 — March 21, 2002
[Info about Susie's "accident"]
April 2007
Seattle Bike Master Plan Event April 4th
Join Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels to celebrate the release of the City of Seattle's Draft Bicycle Master Plan! The City-hosted event takes place on Wednesday April 4th at 10:00AM at Sturgus Park (904 Sturgus Ave S) which is located by the Jose P. Rizal Bridge near 12th Ave. S and I-90. A big turnout is important as a way of saying thanks and showing support for bicycling facilities and bicycling as a transportation option.
For more information contact Pete Lagerwey at 206-684-5108.
March 2007
Bike Alliance coming to Yakima! - March 22nd
Join members of the Transportation Improvement Board (they make decisions on funding bicycle projects!) on a social ride in Yakima. The ride is scheduled for Thursday, March 22 at 6:00 pm and will depart from Oxford Suites, 1701 E Yakima Avenue. Riders will return to the start point by 7:45 pm. Interested cyclists can also join members for dinner at a nearby eatery afterward.
Ralph Wessels, Board Chair of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington and member of the TIB, will be on the ride. Ralph is anxious to meet local cyclists and hear what they have to say about cycling conditions in the Yakima Valley. Don't be afraid to share the good, the bad and the ugly with him!
March 2007
Bike Buddy Commute Consulting
Are you looking for advice about commuting by bicycle? The Bicycle Alliance of Washington has the resources you need to select a route and learn the basics of riding in traffic. The Alliance can also help you select a bike and learn basic repair skills.
Every Friday afternoon in March, April and May from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, Kent Peterson, the Bicycle Alliance Commute Program Director, will answer any and all commuting questions at the Seattle Bike Station, 311 3rd Avenue South.. Stop by to chat, get a bike map, learn how to fix a flat tire and learn more about commuting in the Puget Sound area.
Get lots more info on bicycling for transportation on our Transportation & Commuting page. For bike commute advice anytime, call the Bicycle Alliance at 206-224-9252 or email bikebuddy@bicyclealliance.org
March 2007
Friends Of The Burke-Gilman Trail
Annual Meeting - March 22nd
The meeting is from 7:00-8:30 PM at the Loyal Heights Community Center, 2101 NW 77th, in Seattle.
Representatives from the Seattle Department of Transportation will give a presentation about the on-going design for the segment from 11th Ave NW to the Locks (the missing link) and construction of NW 60th to Golden Gardens (possible groundbreaking this June).
The Cascade Bicycle Club will provide an update on their suit against the City of Lake Forest Park's Ordinance that would make King County's ability to improve the trail impracticable.
Volunteer opportunities will also be discussed.
For more information, email friends@burkegilmantrail.org
February 2007
"Bridging the Gap" Bridge Dedication Feb 19
In just six short months the I-5 Bridge has gone from groundbreaking to ribbon-cutting! Construction of the Chehalis-Western Trail I-5 Bridge got underway in early July and a celebration of its completion is scheduled for Monday, February 19, 2007.
2pm Monday, February 19, 2007 Date Changed!
South Sound Center (behind Sears)
711 Sleater-Kinney Road SE, Lacey
For more information, contact Debbie Clemen, WSDOT Public Involvement Coordinator, 360-704-3204 clemend@wsdot.wa.gov
Need directions? Map to Chehalis Western Trail [pdf]
February 2007
Save the Date: February 6th, 2007
Transportation Lobby Day
Tuesday, February 6, 2007 - all day
110 11th Ave SE
(11th and Capitol Way)
Join with the Bicycle Alliance of Washington, Transportation Choices, Sierra Club, Feet First, and many other non-profits for the first annual healthy, transportation Lobby Day. (The specifics of the day will be posted here in early January.)
Our priorities include:
- Increased funding and policies to support bike lanes and sidewalks - a complete streets umbrella package. We'll pursue education and legislation opportunities.
- Educate legislators about carbon assessments and greenhouse gases.
- Mobility education. Change drivers' education to include bicycle, pedestrian and transit education.
- Work to revise State transportation goals with education and legislation.
- Additionally we'll support cell phone legislation. We'll also be there to oppose any "bad" bills and support other legislation as needed.
More details on Lobby Day (including schedule for the day and transportation options), on our Get Involved page.
Read this year's Legislative Priorities: Solutions for Healthier Communities [pdf]
January 2007
Attend Feet First's Open House on January 26!
Feet First helps people create more walkable communities. The Bicycle Alliance has partnered with Feet First on several important transportation Issues.
Learn more about Feet First by attending their Open House January 26th:
When: from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Where: 2019 Third Ave Ste. 110, Seattle
Contact: 206.652.2310
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28 December 2006
White Center Open House
Give feedback on SW 98th Street plans: King County is asking for input on how to make Southwest 98th Street more inviting for pedestrians and bicycles between the White Center business district and the new Greenbridge housing area.
The Road Services Division will host a public open house for the project on Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 7-9 p.m. at:
White Center Heights Elementary School
10015 Sixth Ave. SW, Seattle
Get more details at: King County website
27 December 2006
Executive Director Search
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington is looking for a new Executive Director! The Application Process and Detailed Job Description can be found on our Executive Search page.
Please direct all inquiries to: RecruitED@bicyclealliance.org
Please refrain from calling the Bicycle Alliance office for more information about the position.
1 December 2006
Eight Years and Moving On
At the November 17th board meeting, I announced my decision to resign on or before April 2007. I started in November 1998 as the third Executive Director of the organization, and look forward to helping the board find my successor. I plan to travel and bicycle in France in the late spring, come home to garden, travel some more, and then look for part-time work to pay our mortgage. It's been a great 8 years, and I'll write more about my decision and plans over the next few months.
-- Barbara CulpThe board has formed a recruitment committee to find a replacement; the job description and application timeline can be found on our Executive Search page.
18 November 2006
Bike Master Plan Public Meetings
Preliminary Seattle Bike Master Plan to be unveiled. Come see and submit your comments. Notes from the August BMP meeting are also viewable on Seattle DOT website.
Tuesday, December 5th
6:30pm - 9:00pm
Odd Fellows Hall (Ballard)
1706 NW Market
Thursday, December 7thFor more info, please call 206-684-3902 or 684-ROAD, Seattle Department of Transportation.
6:30pm - 9:00pm
Rainier Community Center
4600 Rainier Avenue South
4 November 2006
14th Annual Auction THE BEST EVER!
Saturday, November 4th, 2006 The 14th Annual Bicycle Alliance Auction was a FANTASTIC Success! The auction was attended by 440 people and we raised over $84,000!!!
Thanks to all the volunteers, donors, sponsors, and attendees!
26 October 2006
Willie Weir's Cycling Thailand/Laos Presentation
A Tale of Two's: Cycling Thailand and Laos
One is a constitutional monarchy, the other a communist state. One has all the conveniences of the modern world, the other has difficulties supplying water and electricity to its population. One is overrun with scooters, while the other still embraces the bicycle. One is over-touristed, the other barely visited.
Both are amazing travel destinations separated by the Mekong River.
Come and experiences these two countries from the seat of a bicycle with award-winning commentator and travel writer Willie Weir.
When: 7pm Thursday, October 26
Where: REI Seattle
Cost: $5 donation benefits the Bicycle Alliance of Washington
October 2006
SR 520 Bridge Replacement Draft EIS
The SR520 bridge across Lake Washington has pretty much reached its useful lifespan and will be replaced. Replacement options have been studied for years. Now in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Washington State's Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), a draft Environmental Impact Statement has been released. It evaluates a No Build alternative, a 4-lane alternative, and a 6-lane alternativewith design options for the 6-lane alternative.
Public comment is being sought through October 31, 2006. You can provide input several ways:
- Attend a public hearing:
Seattle - 9/18/2006, 4-7PM, Museum of History & Industry, 2700 24th Ave East
Bellevue - 9/21/2006, 4-7PM, St Luke's Church, 3030 Bellevue Way NE. - Online at www.SR520DEIScomments.com
- Via email at SR520comments@wsdot.wa.gov
- Snail mail to Paul Krueger, WSDOT Environmental Manager, 414 Olive Way #400, Seattle, WA 98101
Make sure you let them know you want bicycle access on the new SR 520 Bridge!
October 2006
Myrtle Edwards Trail Closure, October 2006
Access to Myrtle Edwards Park from Broad Street and Alaskan Way will be closed from Monday, October 2 through Friday, October 20, 2006, to accommodate the construction on the Seattle Art Museum's Olympic Sculpture Park. There will be a temporary, one-day reopening of the pedestrian access on Saturday, October 7 for the Seattle Hospitality Oncology Fun Run.
During the temporary closure, pedestrians and bicyclists will be unable to reach Broad Street or Alaskan Way by going through Elliott Bay Park and Myrtle Edwards Park. Parks advises users to use alternate routes during this 18 day period. To find alternate routes, please visit the City of Seattle Website.
Contact: Dewey Potter, 206-684-7241, dewey.potter@seattle.gov16 October 2006
Open House re: Overpass for Interurban in Lynnwood
The City of Lynnwood is hosting on open house on their plans for a new city center that would redevelop Lynnwood's core. The plan includes improvements to the Interurban Trail - building an overpass across 44th Avenue W and an extension of the trail on 200th Street SW. Citizens have a chance to comment on the trail plans at the open house scheduled for:
Tuesday October 24, 2006 from 3 to 8 pm
Lynnwood Convention Center
3711 196th Street SW.
Lynnwood, WAThe convention center is a few blocks away from the Interurban Trail and the Lynnwood Transit Center, with easy access by bike or bus.
5 October 2006
Kickoff Meeting for the Friends of Fish Lake Trail
Kickoff Meeting for the Friends of Fish Lake Trail
Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 5:00
Community Building
35 W Main Street in downtown Spokane
We need your help to get this group rolling! Our discussion will include organizational structure for the group, relationship with Parks Department, walks/bike rides of the corridor, name for the group, next steps, and project update. Please RSVP to Louise McGrody if you plan to attend!
Organized by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington and Inland Northwest Trails Coalition.
5 October 2006
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition Reception
Inland Northwest Trails Coalition Reception
Wednesday, October 11, 2006, 6:30-8:00pm
Community Building
35 W Main Street in Downtown Spokane
Celebrate the Coalition's completion of a trails plan for Spokane County and find out about their plans for future projects like the Fish Lake Trail at this free event! Includes a silent auction. For more information, visit us online at www.inlandnorthwesttrails.org or call 509-435-1270 with questions about the reception.
23 September 2006
REI Spokane's 20th Anniversary Celebration
Join the Bicycle Alliance of Washington at REI Spokane's 20th anniversary celebration this Saturday evening! Drop by our booth and learn more about the Fish Lake Trail project and how you can ensure that this trail gets completed. REI is providing financial support to help us create a "friends" group to support this critical project.
REI Spokane 20th Anniversary Celebration Saturday, September 23, 6:00-8:00pm 1125 N Monroe Street in Spokane
26 September 2006
Seattle's Ship Canal Trail Open House
Seattle's Ship Canal Trail Open House
Tuesday, September 26, 6:30-8:30pm
Queen Anne Community Center, Room 1
1901 1st Ave W in Seattle
This is the long-awaited westward extension of the Ship Canal Trail to the Emerson Street path near Fisherman's Terminal. This is an opportunity to view SDOT's plan to make the connection and talk with staff. Brief presentation at 7:30pm.
Sept 2006
Auction Volunteers Needed!
The Bicycle Alliance of Washington needs volunteers for our annual auction! This year's event is on Saturday, November 4 at Seattle Center's Exhibition Center. We need volunteers to help set up the venue during the day, and we need volunteers to work during the event. Volunteer roles during the auction include: registration/check-in, bussing tables, closers and runners, cashiers/check-out, bid catchers, and more.
Email Kristen Wisehart, volunteer coordinator, if you'd like to help! You can reach her at send Kristen email
Sept 2006
Call for Auction Items
You can donate items right now by filling out the Online Donation Form.
We need donations large and small to make this event a success! Popular items include handcrafted items (quilts, handknits, woodworks, pottery, jewelry, etc.), homebaked goodies, vacation getaways, gift and theme baskets, retail and restaurant gift certificates, tickets to sporting and cultural events, wellness services (massages, spa treatments, acupuncture, etc.), outdoor recreation activities, unique experiences, outdoor gear, and much more!!
The 14th Annual Auction will be held Saturday, November 4th, at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall. Complete details at our Auction Page.
See what items have already been donated: Auction Item List.
12 August 2006
SEATTLE BICYCLE MASTER PLAN PUBLIC MEETING
Come share your opinions and ideas:
August 29, 2006
6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Gould Hall, U of W Campus
3949 15th Ave NE, Seattle
Bike parking on the north and west sides of the building
Whether you can make it to the meeting or not, please fill out the SEATTLE BICYCLE MASTER PLAN ON-LINE QUESTIONNAIRE. One component of public involvement for the Seattle Bicycle Master Plan is this online questionnaire that will help SDOT understand how they can make your trip safer and more convenient by bike. Please help us by taking a few minutes to answer these brief questions.
See SDOT's Flyer [PDF] announcing the meeting.
Summer 2006
Great Ways you can support bicycling this Summer:
RIDE Rapsody August 26-27. More info and Register online at www.rapsodybikeride.com.
JOIN Flexcar at www.flexcar.com and enter the promo code "v75friend" for Bicycle Alliance. Mileage you earn helps our advocacy staff on trips to Olympia. See more info on this Flexcar offer on our Membership page.
DONATE to our auction: You can donate RIGHT NOW with our Online Auction Donation Form The auction will be November 4th at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall.
SHOW your love for bicycling even when you drive: Buy a Share the Road license plate. Over 1150 sold to date. Complete details at our Share the Road License Plate Info page
RENEW today. Your membership is the key to our success. Join or renew online at our Membership page.
ENJOY a bike-friendly Washington this summer from all of us.
10 August 2006
Hood Canal Bridge Construction Update
HOOD CANAL CONSTRUCTION 2006 - 2009
GOOD NEWS: The Hood Canal Bridge is in the process of being rebuilt. In 2009 it will be completed with two 12 foot travel lanes and 8 foot shoulders. This will be a HUGE improvement over the existing bridge. The west half of the bridge has been mostly completed and now has 8 foot shoulders. The east half of the bridge still has narrow and dirty shoulders (about .3 of a mile long). Follow these precautions while riding the bridge: Take the lane, ride together if a group, and be visible. And thank David McCulloch of the Port Townsend Bicycle Association for his tireless efforts on behalf of cyclists on the Peninsula. For more information check the following link: WSDOT Bridge Construction Page
BAD NEWS for the future: In May-June of 2009 the bridge will be closed for 6 to 8 weeks and a passenger ferry will operate between Port Gamble and Shine. Check the WSDOT Bridge Construction Page for current information.
15 July 2006
Volunteer at Fremont's Tour de Fat
Join us for Tour de Fat, August 12th, a Seattle-style celebration bringing together all facets of cycling and alternative transportation.
It's a beer festival pouring Fat Tire beer to raise funds for the Bicycle Alliance, but it's so much more too! Tour de Fat includes a parade in the morning, live music, a vintage bike show, bike games for kids and adults, juggling, costumes, and more.
We need several dozen volunteers to make this event successful. Volunteers are needed for the following shifts:
- Set-up the beer garden, booth tents, banners, etc 7:30-10:30am
- Morning ride registration 8:00-10:00am
- Beer selling 10:30am-1:30pm or 1:30-4:30pm
- Beer selling and tear down 2:30-5:30pm.
- Merchandise selling 10:30am-1:30pm or 1:30-5:30pm
- Break down event 5:30-7:30pm
If you're able to volunteer, send an e-mail to Barb or phone her at 206-224-9252 indicating your desired shift.
Complete Tour de Fat details on our Rides & Events Page
10 July 2006
Legislative Committee meeting
ATTEND the Statewide Issues and Legislative Committee meeting on Saturday, July 22 to help establish our legislative priorities. Meeting at 311 Third South, 10:00AM - 2:00PM. Bicycle clubs, advocates, and interested folks encouraged to attend.
6 July 2006
RAMROD Ticket Sold!
Bicycle Alliance of Washington received one ticket for this year's RAMROD [Ride Around Mount Rainier in One Day] scheduled for July 27. An online auction was announced in the Bicycle Paper and bidding started at $80. After weeks of escalating bids, the ticket was claimed by Lillian Wu, who bid a stunning $410! Congratulations Lillian and thanks for supporting the Bicycle Alliance.
23 May 2006
Fremont Bridge Closures (Seattle)
Beginning May 22, the Fremont Bridge will be reduced to one vehicle lane in each direction and one sidewalk that must be shared by bicyclists and pedestrians traveling in both directions. These changes will last for approximately 10 months. There will also be periods of full closure of the bridge during the month of June. For specific details of June bridge closures and for additional information about the Fremont Bridge project, please visit SDOT website. You can also sign up for email alerts regarding the Fremont Bridge.
17 May 2006
Improvements planned for East Lake Sammamish Parkway
East Lake Sammamish Parkway Open House
Wednesday, May 24, 6:30-8:30pm
Inglewood Junior High
24120 NE 8th Street in Sammamish
The City of Sammamish is planning safety improvements along the East Lake Sammamish Parkway from NE Inglewood Hill Road north to 187th Ave NE (Redmond city limits). Safety improvements could include bike lanes, pedestrian walkway, and new left-turn lanes. Some Parkway neighbors are grumbling about the bike lanes. They claim that there are few bike commuters along the Parkway and that the newly opened trail can serve cyclists instead of the Parkway. They don't recognize that cyclists will use the Parkway to connect to the trail, that fast bike commuters, racers and event riders in training prefer the direct Parkway route to the slower trail route. Please give the City your 2 cents if you want to see bike lanes remain a part of the corridor! Can't make the meeting? You can submit comments by email
17 May 2006
Improvements Underway for the Burke Gilman Trail
King County is working to improve a two mile segment of the Burke Gilman Trail in Lake Forest Park, from NE 145th Street to Log Boom Park. A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 6:30 p.m. at Lake Forest Park Elementary School. More details at King County Parks Website
17 May 2006
Call for Auction Items
You can donate items right now by filling out the Online Donation Form. More details on our Auction Page
15 May 2006
"Bikecentennial" Birthday Bash
Join Adventure Cycling Association, the nation's largest bicycling organization, in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of '76 Bikecentennial, the inaugural ride on the Oregon to Virginia TransAmerica Bicycle Trail. Celebrate with catered barbeque and bike ride, June 21st, Kent KOA. Complete Bikecentennial Anniversary Bash Details
May 2006
May is Bike-to-Work Month!
And, Friday May 19th is Bike-to-Work Day. If you already commute, this is nothing special—but if you are thinking of forgoing your four-wheeler for a bicycle, this this the time to start! Check out our Bike Buddy Program to get personalized mentoring from experienced commuters. We also have lots of tips on our Transportation & Commuting page.
Bicycle Surcharge waived on Bike-to-Work day!
Kirk Robinson of the Squeaky Wheels advocacy group on Bainbridge Island worked with Washington State Ferries to waive the bicycle surcharge for May 19th as an incentive to get new riders to try the bike/ferry commute. The surcharge waiver applies only to the following routes:
- Seattle — Bainbridge Island
- Seattle — Bremerton
- Fauntleroy — Vashon
- Fauntleroy — Southworth
17 May 2006
Ride of Silence
Date: Wednesday, May 17, 2006Time: 7:00 pm
Where: At over 120 U.S. locations and eight other countries
Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/19.3 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.
So far, rides have been planned for Everett, Renton, Seattle, Silverdale, Tacoma, Vancouver, Walla Walla, and Wenatchee. For ride locations and contact info, check the www.rideofsilence.org website.
10 May 2006
Safe Routes to School program expanding!
Additional funding has been awarded to the Bicycle Alliance to support long-term Safe Routes programs. Read more details on the Safe Routes News page.
3 May 2006
Website Overhaul
We just did a major overhaul of our website. Tell us what you think
April 2006
Bicycle Commuting Workshops
FREE Bicycle Commuting Workshops at Bikestation Seattle (Bicycle Alliance of Washington) Thursdays at Noon
| April 6: | Bike Commuter Resources: maps, mass transit, lockers, and Bike Buddies | |
| April 20: | Commuter Bike Considerations: riding to work is not the Tour de France | |
| May 4: | Safety First: tips and techniques for riding in traffic | |
| May 18: | Clothes for Commuting: can you be functional and fashionable? | |
| June 1: | Night Riding: safe riding after sundown | |
| June 15: | Not Your Ordinary Bicycle: recumbents, fixed gears and other interesting bicycles | |
| RSVP: info@bicyclealliance.org | ||
For notes from these workshops and more tips on commuting, check our Transportation & Commuting page.
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Fall 2005
Bicycle Alliance T-Shirts, Mugs & Bike bags!
You can be stylish and support the Bicycle Alliance with our new T-shirts featuring the Bicyle Alliance or the Share the Road license plate designs. You can also get the logo on mugs, tote bags, and bike bags. A portion of the proceeds goes to support the Bicycle Alliance. Available for purchase online at Cafe Press.
Fall 2005
Safe Routes to Schools
The Bicycle Alliance received a $48,000 grant from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission to train and directly assist at least 15 schools to plan and implement safe routes to school programs. While we are working state wide, the focus areas are the Spokane, Kitsap County, Moses Lake, Wenatchee, and Olympia regions. To find out more contact Dave Janis at daveja@bicyclealliance.org or at 206/224.9252.
Visit our new Safe Routes to School web site.
Fall 2005
3 WINS FOR BICYLING IN WASHINGTON!
Great news for anyone who rides a bicycle in Washington. Thanks to the tireless efforts of advocates all across Washington three bills passed the 2005 legislature that will help make bicycling safer for all users. Read all about it: Three Bike Bills for Washington
October 2005
Colonnade Park Groundbreaking
Seattle gets the country's first and only sheltered, urban mountain bike trail system! Learn more about the new skills park Colonnade Park Announcement.
15 August 2005
Dasani Blue Bikes Program Comes to Washington!
Nifty Bikes for free public use -- What a great idea! Read about the Community Bicycle Program
10 August 2005
New Transportation Bill Will Help More Americans Walk, Bike
The new federal transportation bill, SAFETEA-LU, provides more funding for bicycling and walking than ever before! Read about the details at: www.americabikes.org
2004
Hood Canal Construction Information
The Hood Canal Bridge is in the process of being rebuilt. When construction is completed, in 2009, there will be two 12 foot travel lanes and 8 foot shoulders in each direction. Read more in our Hood Canal Construction Briefing.
29 April 2003
WSDOT updates their website with Bicycle Information
Read the announcement about a new WA State Bicycle Information web site for all kind of useful information
Website design and implementation by Slivka Consulting