Interested in a possible network of trails near the Schuylkill River? You’re invited to attend a Public Workshop to be a part of the planning process!
Tuesday, November 13th, 6 - 8 p.m.
Lower Merion Township Administration Building,2nd Floor Board Room
75 E. Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore
Wednesday, November 14th, 6 - 8 p.m.
Upper Merion Township Building
175 W. Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia
The Townships of Lower Merion and Upper Merion, along with the Boroughs of West Conshohocken and Bridgeport are in the preliminary planning phase for a possible 15.5 mile network of trails and greenway near the Schuylkill River.
View Larger Map
Extensive public involvement will be a major component of the planning process.
Join the consulting team of Campbell & Thomas, Co. of Philadelphia, who will discuss the project with interested residents and gather information and input. For more information, contact Lower Merion Parks and Recreation at (610) 645-6220
This is the legacy blog of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. It is an archive of posts from 2003 to 2014. Making your ride better since 1972. https://www.bicyclecoalition.org
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Meeting Minutes Philadelphia Cycling Committee
October 16th, 2007
BCGP Staff Report
Bike Philly Review
John reported that over 2400 riders rode Bike Philly which yielded more the $20,000 for the Bicycle Coalition. The ride went very well and 97% of the riders who responded to a survey said that they would ride again next year. John heard some feedback that day of registration was priced a little too high although this allowed same day Registrants to simply walk up without waiting in a cue..
There were some minor glitches that occurred such as an occasional car along the route, very few people also seemed to notice the repair stations set up along the route. Russell reported that some cyclists missed the East Fairmount Park loop.
Implementation of the City Bicycle Plan.
The City has been awarded TCDI planning funds from DVRPC to create a bicycle and pedestrian plan for selected neighborhoods such as South Philly, North Philly, Center City and the Northwest Neighborhoods.
The BCGP was subsequently awarded 80K from the William Penn Foundation to advocate the implementation of the Bicycle Plan, some of that money will be used to pay for a consultant to do the advocacy work required to implement the plan.
Bicycling Ambassadors Program – The City of Philadelphia has put the program out for bid, the Bicycle Coalition is in the process of submitting a proposal to partner with the University City District to run the program. It is hoped that the program can be launched in Early 2008 with Bicycling Ambassadors working on the street by the summer.
Bike Sharing Update – Russell M.
An Urban Sustainability Forum on bike sharing will be held a the Academy of Natural Sciences on January 17, 2008.
There will be a representative from Lyon France attending the event, A demo bike from Lyon will also be on display at the forum. There will be two info symposiums, a day session aimed at local decision makers and a night symposium open to the general public.
Russell stressed that the goal of the campaign was to implement a citywide program.
The street furniture RFP is awaiting review by City Council, the future of the RFP is uncertain. The Bicycle Coalition crafted a white paper opposing the RFP as it is rigid and offers little opportunity for an amendment to include bike racks and Bike Sharing.
South Street Bridge
The Bicycle Coalition followed up with a letter to Streets Department Bridge Chief John Lutz restating our current position on the design of the bridge.
Sidewalk and Path Safety information projects
BCGP Board and staff are working to develop a Path Safety brochure for the River Drive Paths in Fairmount Park. Sarah has contacted the Bicycle Transportation Alliance to develop a sample brochure. Update this has been postponed until January when money from the Bicycle Ambassador’s program will be available to fund it.
Some ideas were floating around for a street and sidewalk safety brochure, preferably post cards sized. One suggestion was to create adhesive stickers to be placed on bike racks to encourage people to get off the sidewalk and to remind people that it is illegal for cyclists to ride on the sidewalk.
Airport Bicycle Parking
The Committee will be kicking off a Bicycle Airport Parking campaign in conjunction with the Delaware County Committee to get bicycle parking installed at the airport.
The Philadelphia Parking Authority has indicated that they will confiscate bicycles parked at the Airport.
The Bicycle Coalition Staff will draft a letter to Airport Director Charles Isdell asking for clarification and requesting that reasonable bicycle parking be provided. and will ask the Bicycle and Pedestrian Task Force investigate this rule.
Jeff A. noted that couriers go to the airport all the time without any reported problems..
Jill M. suggested that a compromise would allow bicycle parking at the Employee Parking lot on Bartram Avenue which would requires bicyclists to shuttle to the Airport terminal.
(Follow up - The Philadelphia Planning department has reported that airport officials have asked for bike rack specifications)
Wish List
A wish list was discussed for improvements in the city and the state, attendees were requested to send them to the Philadelphia Committee Email List where they will be compiled by John Boyle.
Next Meeting
Tuesday November 20th 6:30 PM – Skyline Room (4th Floor) Free Library of Philadelphia
October 16th, 2007
BCGP Staff Report
Bike Philly Review
John reported that over 2400 riders rode Bike Philly which yielded more the $20,000 for the Bicycle Coalition. The ride went very well and 97% of the riders who responded to a survey said that they would ride again next year. John heard some feedback that day of registration was priced a little too high although this allowed same day Registrants to simply walk up without waiting in a cue..
There were some minor glitches that occurred such as an occasional car along the route, very few people also seemed to notice the repair stations set up along the route. Russell reported that some cyclists missed the East Fairmount Park loop.
Implementation of the City Bicycle Plan.
The City has been awarded TCDI planning funds from DVRPC to create a bicycle and pedestrian plan for selected neighborhoods such as South Philly, North Philly, Center City and the Northwest Neighborhoods.
The BCGP was subsequently awarded 80K from the William Penn Foundation to advocate the implementation of the Bicycle Plan, some of that money will be used to pay for a consultant to do the advocacy work required to implement the plan.
Bicycling Ambassadors Program – The City of Philadelphia has put the program out for bid, the Bicycle Coalition is in the process of submitting a proposal to partner with the University City District to run the program. It is hoped that the program can be launched in Early 2008 with Bicycling Ambassadors working on the street by the summer.
Bike Sharing Update – Russell M.
An Urban Sustainability Forum on bike sharing will be held a the Academy of Natural Sciences on January 17, 2008.
There will be a representative from Lyon France attending the event, A demo bike from Lyon will also be on display at the forum. There will be two info symposiums, a day session aimed at local decision makers and a night symposium open to the general public.
Russell stressed that the goal of the campaign was to implement a citywide program.
The street furniture RFP is awaiting review by City Council, the future of the RFP is uncertain. The Bicycle Coalition crafted a white paper opposing the RFP as it is rigid and offers little opportunity for an amendment to include bike racks and Bike Sharing.
South Street Bridge
The Bicycle Coalition followed up with a letter to Streets Department Bridge Chief John Lutz restating our current position on the design of the bridge.
Sidewalk and Path Safety information projects
BCGP Board and staff are working to develop a Path Safety brochure for the River Drive Paths in Fairmount Park. Sarah has contacted the Bicycle Transportation Alliance to develop a sample brochure. Update this has been postponed until January when money from the Bicycle Ambassador’s program will be available to fund it.
Some ideas were floating around for a street and sidewalk safety brochure, preferably post cards sized. One suggestion was to create adhesive stickers to be placed on bike racks to encourage people to get off the sidewalk and to remind people that it is illegal for cyclists to ride on the sidewalk.
Airport Bicycle Parking
The Committee will be kicking off a Bicycle Airport Parking campaign in conjunction with the Delaware County Committee to get bicycle parking installed at the airport.
The Philadelphia Parking Authority has indicated that they will confiscate bicycles parked at the Airport.
The Bicycle Coalition Staff will draft a letter to Airport Director Charles Isdell asking for clarification and requesting that reasonable bicycle parking be provided. and will ask the Bicycle and Pedestrian Task Force investigate this rule.
Jeff A. noted that couriers go to the airport all the time without any reported problems..
Jill M. suggested that a compromise would allow bicycle parking at the Employee Parking lot on Bartram Avenue which would requires bicyclists to shuttle to the Airport terminal.
(Follow up - The Philadelphia Planning department has reported that airport officials have asked for bike rack specifications)
Wish List
A wish list was discussed for improvements in the city and the state, attendees were requested to send them to the Philadelphia Committee Email List where they will be compiled by John Boyle.
Next Meeting
Tuesday November 20th 6:30 PM – Skyline Room (4th Floor) Free Library of Philadelphia
Burlington County Trail Update
From County Open Space Coordinator Matthew Johnson:
While I agree with you that we encountered some frustrating delays particularly regarding the endorsement of the Delaware River Heritage Trail Route Alignment and Facility Plan (Categorical Exclusionary Document), I am happy to report that it has been approved.
Most recently, the County and DVRPC have successfully obtained funding from the NJDOT to contract w/ The RBA Group to prepare final design and construction documents for 2 segments of the DRHT measuring a total of 6.5 miles. Letters are going out to municipal representatives of these communities so that the consultant can proceed with the development of bidding documents.
Regarding the proposed Kinkora Rails to Trails project in Burlington County, please be advised that we recently negotiated a donation of an approximately 5 mile section of the former rail line. The County is currently looking at segments where we could most efficiently design, permit and construct safe and enjoyable trail facilities for public use. As we have discussed in the past, Burlington County seeks to identify logical destinations to link w/ trails so that we don't have a trail facility end "nowhere", leaving the trail user to find his/her way. As opportunities to develop destination to destination trails arise, we are eager to proceed.
For example, the County is working on closing on a "connector" parcel by the end of the calendar year that would enable us to potentially construct a portion of the Kinkora Trail from Mansfield Community Park to Springfield's municipal bldg/rec complex.
The County's Parks and Open Space Master Plan's objective is to develop an interconnected regional park system so that, eventually, all of our park sites can be accessed by on/off road trails. As stated above, sections of this trail system are actively being analyzed for final design, permitting and construction in the near term.
The County is working on acquiring another "missing link" property so that we can construct the western 1/2 of the proposed Arney's Mount loop that would connect to the existing Pemberton Rails to Trails facility to the highest point in Burlington County. Pieces of this puzzle are falling into place and you will be seeing more trail construction projects popping up on the horizon as a result.
The Resource Conservation Department works closely with the Burlington County Engineering Department to facilitate bike lane construction in as many locations as possible.
As you are well aware, many of the County's proposals, even for passive recreational improvements such as trails, get stymied by the various permitting agencies. While this adds to the County's frustration and, ultimately, taxpayer cost, we continue to fight the good fight to develop these much needed facilities for our residents to enjoy.
While I agree with you that we encountered some frustrating delays particularly regarding the endorsement of the Delaware River Heritage Trail Route Alignment and Facility Plan (Categorical Exclusionary Document), I am happy to report that it has been approved.
Most recently, the County and DVRPC have successfully obtained funding from the NJDOT to contract w/ The RBA Group to prepare final design and construction documents for 2 segments of the DRHT measuring a total of 6.5 miles. Letters are going out to municipal representatives of these communities so that the consultant can proceed with the development of bidding documents.
Regarding the proposed Kinkora Rails to Trails project in Burlington County, please be advised that we recently negotiated a donation of an approximately 5 mile section of the former rail line. The County is currently looking at segments where we could most efficiently design, permit and construct safe and enjoyable trail facilities for public use. As we have discussed in the past, Burlington County seeks to identify logical destinations to link w/ trails so that we don't have a trail facility end "nowhere", leaving the trail user to find his/her way. As opportunities to develop destination to destination trails arise, we are eager to proceed.
For example, the County is working on closing on a "connector" parcel by the end of the calendar year that would enable us to potentially construct a portion of the Kinkora Trail from Mansfield Community Park to Springfield's municipal bldg/rec complex.
The County's Parks and Open Space Master Plan's objective is to develop an interconnected regional park system so that, eventually, all of our park sites can be accessed by on/off road trails. As stated above, sections of this trail system are actively being analyzed for final design, permitting and construction in the near term.
The County is working on acquiring another "missing link" property so that we can construct the western 1/2 of the proposed Arney's Mount loop that would connect to the existing Pemberton Rails to Trails facility to the highest point in Burlington County. Pieces of this puzzle are falling into place and you will be seeing more trail construction projects popping up on the horizon as a result.
The Resource Conservation Department works closely with the Burlington County Engineering Department to facilitate bike lane construction in as many locations as possible.
As you are well aware, many of the County's proposals, even for passive recreational improvements such as trails, get stymied by the various permitting agencies. While this adds to the County's frustration and, ultimately, taxpayer cost, we continue to fight the good fight to develop these much needed facilities for our residents to enjoy.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Lower Merion Bike Committee Organizes
The newly-formed Lower Merion Bike Committee held its inaugural meeting at the Lower Merion Township Building this week, and the members pledged to work with township officials and offer constructive suggestions for the implementation of the township's Bicycle/Pedestrian Plan. The committee will explore ways to increase safety for bicyclists, provide convenient and safe bike parking, construct new bike paths, and post new Share-the-Road signs, etc.
The committee set several goals, including offering a list of recommendations to the Lower Merion Township Commissioners upon completion of its work. To that end, the members have arranged an exploratory bike ride in the township Sunday, November 4, 10:00 AM,
meeting at the Township Building parking lot, 75 East Lancaster Avenue. The public is invited.
In addition, committee members will study the Township's completed Bike/Pedestrian plan, participate in the November 13 public presentation at the Township Building on the
possible Schulykill River West Trail, which is currently being studied, and also organize a book club, with James Howard Kunstler's The Geography of Nowhere the first book on the committee's reading list.
Future meeting are set for Thursdays, Novemer 15 and December 6, 7:00
PM.
The committee will be in contact with the township Police Department
and Lower Merion School District, in an effort to promote and increase bicycle safety programs for youths. Public awareness of state-mandated helmet laws and other bicycle safety measures will be emphasized.
Finally, committee members will be in contact with Neighborhood Bike Works, a Philadelphia organization that offers free bike repair classes to inner-city youngsters, and upon completion of courses, a good-condition used bicycle to each student. Committee members will consider a program to collect used bikes in the township for re-cycling to Philadelphia children.
For information on Lower Merion Bike Committee activities, contact
David Broida at 610-864-4303 or dbroida@comcast.net. New members are
welcome.
David Broida
dbroida@comcast.net
The committee set several goals, including offering a list of recommendations to the Lower Merion Township Commissioners upon completion of its work. To that end, the members have arranged an exploratory bike ride in the township Sunday, November 4, 10:00 AM,
meeting at the Township Building parking lot, 75 East Lancaster Avenue. The public is invited.
In addition, committee members will study the Township's completed Bike/Pedestrian plan, participate in the November 13 public presentation at the Township Building on the
possible Schulykill River West Trail, which is currently being studied, and also organize a book club, with James Howard Kunstler's The Geography of Nowhere the first book on the committee's reading list.
Future meeting are set for Thursdays, Novemer 15 and December 6, 7:00
PM.
The committee will be in contact with the township Police Department
and Lower Merion School District, in an effort to promote and increase bicycle safety programs for youths. Public awareness of state-mandated helmet laws and other bicycle safety measures will be emphasized.
Finally, committee members will be in contact with Neighborhood Bike Works, a Philadelphia organization that offers free bike repair classes to inner-city youngsters, and upon completion of courses, a good-condition used bicycle to each student. Committee members will consider a program to collect used bikes in the township for re-cycling to Philadelphia children.
For information on Lower Merion Bike Committee activities, contact
David Broida at 610-864-4303 or dbroida@comcast.net. New members are
welcome.
(Photo - from left, George Westby, Paul McNabb, Ruth Strickland, Todd
Hart, David Broida, Charlie Lee, Jake Hart, Carol Hart, Joe Lubeck,
Rich Stein, Kate Galer, Bridget Chadwick and Margaret Bowerman)
Hart, David Broida, Charlie Lee, Jake Hart, Carol Hart, Joe Lubeck,
Rich Stein, Kate Galer, Bridget Chadwick and Margaret Bowerman)
David Broida
dbroida@comcast.net
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Philadelphia Bike Culture on YouTube
Here is a nice video of the young and hip on bicycles in Philadelphia. Set to Queen's Bicycle Race. You guys are looking great out there.
Disclaimer - The Bicycle Coalition encourages everyone to obey all traffic laws, wear a helmet and refrain from talking on cell phones while bicycling.
Disclaimer - The Bicycle Coalition encourages everyone to obey all traffic laws, wear a helmet and refrain from talking on cell phones while bicycling.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
A Transit Map for South Jersey
So why put a transit map on a Bicycle News Blog? All of these transit routes carry bicycles at all times and as you can see, they travel quite a ways from Center City. Have you ever thought about bicycling to the Jersey Shore or hiking in the Pine Barrens?
View Larger Map
Only the long distance bus and train routes are shown here. The most common bus you will find on these routes are the motorcoaches with the luggage bins. The bus routes to shore often fill up with luggage on summer weekends so plan accordingly, otherwise you can pretty go where you want in South Jersey seven days a week.
View Larger Map
Only the long distance bus and train routes are shown here. The most common bus you will find on these routes are the motorcoaches with the luggage bins. The bus routes to shore often fill up with luggage on summer weekends so plan accordingly, otherwise you can pretty go where you want in South Jersey seven days a week.
Monday, October 22, 2007
1500 Walnut Clarifies their Bike Policy
Good News for 1500 Walnut employees, management has clarified that bicycles are allowed in the building; as long as they use the freight elevator and are stored in the unit's and not in the common areas of the building.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Kudos to Hazleton for their new Bike Lanes
Continuing our "Upstate" theme there is an article in the Standard Speaker noting that in Hazleton (actually Butler Township) two miles of bike lanes are to be constructed from Country Club Estates and the Drums Elementary/Middle School.
First of all bike lanes in the heart of Pennsylvania's Coal Country is a rare sight in indeed, with the news article calling them "special lanes". Secondly they were funded under the Safe Routes to School Program, which was hoped to provide funding for bicycle facilities, but in practice nearly all of the Safe Routes to Schools funds has been allocated for sidewalks.
First of all bike lanes in the heart of Pennsylvania's Coal Country is a rare sight in indeed, with the news article calling them "special lanes". Secondly they were funded under the Safe Routes to School Program, which was hoped to provide funding for bicycle facilities, but in practice nearly all of the Safe Routes to Schools funds has been allocated for sidewalks.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Getting to the Little Lehigh Parkway from the Perkiomen Trail
The Little Lehigh Parkway in Allentown PA is a beautiful network of trails on both sides of the Little Lehigh River, it is part of the Allentown City Parks system and with a few turns on surface streets connects to the Lehigh Canal Towpath. And it's 20 miles from the Perkiomen Trails north trailhead via mostly low traffic scenic (if somewhat hilly) local roads.
View Larger Map
Here is a rough cue sheet of the route -
Thanks to Hal Schirmer for providing this route
Click Here for a map of the Allentown Area Trail Network
Click Here for a map of the Perkiomen Creek and Schuylkill River Trails
View Larger Map
Here is a rough cue sheet of the route -
Thanks to Hal Schirmer for providing this route
- Start at the Perkiomen Trailhead
- CAREFULLY cross route 29/Gravel Pike
- follow Lumber Street, cross small bridge
- left onto Reihman Road
- Reihman road ends at McCleans Station Road
- right onto McLean Station (at 1876 Centennial Schoolhouse)
- first left into new development (unnamed road) in Candlewick Development
- second right onto Knight Road
- CAREFULLY cross Route 29 stay on Knight Road
- Cross over Route 663
- take first right onto Church Road
- Church becomes Water Street, junction with Route 29
- Left onto Route 29,
- take second right onto Hosensack Road
- follow Hosensack makes 90 right turn (at Treichler)
- follow Hosensack makes 90' left and becomes Yeakles (at Mill Hill)
- cross Schultz Bridge Rd
- Right onto Palm Road
- first left onto Powder Valley Road
- cross Train tracks
- Powder Valley makes 90' left, continue straight onto Geissinger
- Left onto Kings Highway
- through old Zionsville
- Merge onto Route 29 short distance, then
- Right onto Shimerville Road (long downhill)
- Shimerville Road enters Emmaus, becomes Pennsylvania Ave, becomes Broad Street
- Follow Broad to "T" at 3rd Street
- Left on 3rd, cross RR tracks immediate right onto Railroad Street
- Railroad Street turns 90' left, becomes Keystone Ave
- Follow Keystone Ave up hill through Emmaus
- Keystone Ave curves to right, becomes Keystone Road/Werner Street
- bear 90' left onto Keystone/Werner
- cross county Club Road go straight on Keystone Road
- Keystone Road winds through Little Lehigh Parkway (Park)
- Keystone Road "Ts" at Fish Hatchery Road
- Bear right, over bridge, then immediate left onto Little Lehigh Parkway bike trail.
Click Here for a map of the Allentown Area Trail Network
Click Here for a map of the Perkiomen Creek and Schuylkill River Trails
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
What's This? Metered Bike Lanes
On 34th Street between Ludlow and Chestnut parking meters and permitted parking signs have mysteriously appeared next to the bike lane.
Image and location of the bike lane, parking meters and parked cars on Google Maps Street View
As of today the meters are covered and a sign "No Stoppping Until" November 5 was posted.
So what happens on November 5th. Does the bike lane disappear for good? Stay tuned, meanwhile send your comments to the Streets Department here.
Image and location of the bike lane, parking meters and parked cars on Google Maps Street View
As of today the meters are covered and a sign "No Stoppping Until" November 5 was posted.
So what happens on November 5th. Does the bike lane disappear for good? Stay tuned, meanwhile send your comments to the Streets Department here.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Driver to be charged in hit-run of 2 Levittown teens
From the Philadelphia Inquirer
Driver to be charged in hit-run of 2 teens
By Peter Mucha abd Larry King
Inquirer Staff Writers
A35-year-old man will be formally charged this afternoon in connection with a hit-and-run accident that left two teens critically injured last night, according to Middletown Township, Bucks County police...
Full Article Here
Driver to be charged in hit-run of 2 teens
By Peter Mucha abd Larry King
Inquirer Staff Writers
A35-year-old man will be formally charged this afternoon in connection with a hit-and-run accident that left two teens critically injured last night, according to Middletown Township, Bucks County police...
Full Article Here
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Struble Trail Reaches A New Low in Its Dubious History
The 3 mile Struble Trail once touted by trail sponsors and Chester County Officials to extend 15 miles reached perhaps it's lowest moment on October 4th when an ambulance crew's efforts to reach a bicycle crash victim on the trail were hindered because the former northern entrance on Dorlan's Mill Road was blocked by a wire fence put up buy a landowner and fallen trees on the trail. Causing a 10 minute delay in response time.
Ironically one week earlier trail supporters held a big rally protesting the developers action and the government response.
The Struble Trail was originally planned to follow an abandoned RR grade from Downingtown to the Borough of Honey Brook, the 3 mile section was built in the 1990's and originally stretched to Dorlans Mill Road, which was a short uphill climb to a back entrance to Marsh Creek State Park.
In 2005 a developer bought the old mill property on Dorlans Mill Road and cut off public access there.
The old railroad grade north of Dorlan's Mill is virtually undetectable and has been reclaimed by adjacent landowners. With Chester County's priorities eyed toward the Schuylkill River and Chester Valley Trails there is little hope this trail will be extended to Honey Brook...
...that is until the political will is there to finish the trail.
View Larger Map
Ironically one week earlier trail supporters held a big rally protesting the developers action and the government response.
The Struble Trail was originally planned to follow an abandoned RR grade from Downingtown to the Borough of Honey Brook, the 3 mile section was built in the 1990's and originally stretched to Dorlans Mill Road, which was a short uphill climb to a back entrance to Marsh Creek State Park.
In 2005 a developer bought the old mill property on Dorlans Mill Road and cut off public access there.
The old railroad grade north of Dorlan's Mill is virtually undetectable and has been reclaimed by adjacent landowners. With Chester County's priorities eyed toward the Schuylkill River and Chester Valley Trails there is little hope this trail will be extended to Honey Brook...
...that is until the political will is there to finish the trail.
View Larger Map
Saturday, October 13, 2007
"The Cornerstone of Philadelphia" Bans Bicycles
Building Management at 1500 Walnut Street sent a memo to thethe tenants that bicycles will no longer be allowed in the building. 1500 Walnut was previously a bike friendly building. Management has placed a bike rack in the back of the building, that sounds like a terrible choice to put a bike rack, as it increases the risk of bike theft, although I understand that it is a private walkway and woefully short
15th and Walnut is one the heaviest on street bicycle parking locations in Center City. Besides a letter from the Bicycle Coalition the management at 1500 should expect a whole lot more bikes parked in front of Striped Bass.
15th and Walnut is one the heaviest on street bicycle parking locations in Center City. Besides a letter from the Bicycle Coalition the management at 1500 should expect a whole lot more bikes parked in front of Striped Bass.
Friday, October 12, 2007
ATA Scapegoats Bike Racks in New Aviation Bill
A letter to the Editor in the October 8 Wilmington News Journal from the Air Transport Association of America CEO James May blasts the proposed 2.2 billion dollar airport tax increase for funding bike racks.
"Passengers want affordable fares and on-time service -- they do not want what will amount to an additional $2.2 billion in taxes devoted to airport bike racks and hot dog stands."
Devoted? The bill only authorizes that bike racks are eligible for these funds. Even if the largest 220 airports installed bike racks in the US each spent $10,000 (far more than most of us request) to provide excellent parking for 50-100 bicycles, that would total $2.2 million, or 0.1% of the $2.2 Billion.
The real strength of the bill is that it categorizes bicycle parking as a legitimate expense. It's a message from Congress that places like Philadelphia International (where parked bicycles are subject to confiscation) that intermodal could and should include bicycle to airline transfers and that airport employees have an affordable option to get to work.
"Passengers want affordable fares and on-time service -- they do not want what will amount to an additional $2.2 billion in taxes devoted to airport bike racks and hot dog stands."
Devoted? The bill only authorizes that bike racks are eligible for these funds. Even if the largest 220 airports installed bike racks in the US each spent $10,000 (far more than most of us request) to provide excellent parking for 50-100 bicycles, that would total $2.2 million, or 0.1% of the $2.2 Billion.
The real strength of the bill is that it categorizes bicycle parking as a legitimate expense. It's a message from Congress that places like Philadelphia International (where parked bicycles are subject to confiscation) that intermodal could and should include bicycle to airline transfers and that airport employees have an affordable option to get to work.
Next Philadelphia Cycling Committee Meeting
Next Philadelphia Cycling Committee meeting 10/16/07, 6:30 PM at the Free Library in the Skyline Room (Take the elevator to the 4th floor).
Another Serious Mercer County Bike Crash
According to the Times of Trenton A female bicyclist was critically in jured yesterday in a collision with a car at Terhune Road and North Harrison Street in Princeton Township, police said.
View Larger Map
The woman was not carrying any identification and police, as of last night, were trying to identify her so they could notify her family.
View Larger Map
The woman was not carrying any identification and police, as of last night, were trying to identify her so they could notify her family.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Bike Films Featured at Upcoming Festival
The 2007 Big Bang Film Festival will screen "Messenger", “Spinteckalicious and “The World Naked Bike Ride”. Messenger focuses on NYC Bike Messenger Kamikaze. Spinteckalicious is an extreme Mountain Bike movie in the spirit of Warren Miller's ski films and The World Naked Bike Ride says it all in the title.
Messenger and Spinteckalicious - 10/20 10 AM at the Prince Music Theater
Messenger and The Naked Bike Ride - 10/20 7PM and 10/21 5PM at International House.
More Info - http://www.bigbangfilmfestival.com
Messenger and Spinteckalicious - 10/20 10 AM at the Prince Music Theater
Messenger and The Naked Bike Ride - 10/20 7PM and 10/21 5PM at International House.
More Info - http://www.bigbangfilmfestival.com
NYC's 9th Avenue Cycle Track is Open
New Yorks first "Cycle Track" or physically separated bike lane is in place. It's on 9th Ave between 16th and 23rd St two blocks east of Chelsea Piers and the Hudson River Greenway.
Right now the lane has been demarcated by paint and temporary bollards, eventually there’ll be green pedestrian refuges, exclusive light signals for cyclists, signage, and stencils.
Kudos to the NYC DOT, finally an East Coast city has gotten the b^&*# to do something bold for cycling, even Portlander's are envious.
Now here in Philadelphia, where do you think a similar facility could go? Leave some suggestions in the comments sections.
We don't have too many superwide streets in the cities core (which is what makes bicycling slightly easier here than in NYC), my first choice would be JFK Blvd from Penn Center to the JFK bridge where a 21 foot pedestrian walk is under construction.
Lastly the vehicular cycling debaters now have a piece of real estate to debate about. It's important for advocates to make sure that the lane is swept and free of commercial vehicles who will be tempted to squeeze in (although the pedestrian islands will narrow the available space to do this..
Streetfilms.org has put out another professional quality video that shows off the new bike lane:
Right now the lane has been demarcated by paint and temporary bollards, eventually there’ll be green pedestrian refuges, exclusive light signals for cyclists, signage, and stencils.
Kudos to the NYC DOT, finally an East Coast city has gotten the b^&*# to do something bold for cycling, even Portlander's are envious.
Now here in Philadelphia, where do you think a similar facility could go? Leave some suggestions in the comments sections.
We don't have too many superwide streets in the cities core (which is what makes bicycling slightly easier here than in NYC), my first choice would be JFK Blvd from Penn Center to the JFK bridge where a 21 foot pedestrian walk is under construction.
Lastly the vehicular cycling debaters now have a piece of real estate to debate about. It's important for advocates to make sure that the lane is swept and free of commercial vehicles who will be tempted to squeeze in (although the pedestrian islands will narrow the available space to do this..
Streetfilms.org has put out another professional quality video that shows off the new bike lane:
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Comparision of the 60 Largest Cities
Our Friends at Bike Pittsburgh created a comparison chart the US Census commuting data in the 2006 American Community Survey. Thanks to Scott Bricker and Erok Boerer at Bike Pittsburgh for putting this together.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Mercer County Bicyclist Killed
Lawrence bicyclist hurt in crash dies from injuries
by Michael Ratcliffe/The TimesMonday October 01, 2007, 6:02 PM
LAWRENCE -- A township resident has died from injuries he suffered in a bicycle accident Saturday evening, police and the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office confirmed Monday.
The man who was riding this bicycle was critically injured in an accident in Lawrence Saturday night. The man, William Van Pelt of Woodlane Road, was rushed by ambulance to the trauma center at Capital Health System at Fuld hospital in Trenton following the 9:30 p.m. Saturday accident on Lawrence Road (Route 206) and later died, authorities said.
Van Pelt was bicycling north on Lawrence Road when he apparently fell off his bike and struck his head on the curb, authorities said. Authorities said they are still investigating whether Van Pelt was hit by a passing vehicle or if he simply lost control of his bicycle. Contact Michael Ratcliffe
by Michael Ratcliffe/The TimesMonday October 01, 2007, 6:02 PM
LAWRENCE -- A township resident has died from injuries he suffered in a bicycle accident Saturday evening, police and the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office confirmed Monday.
The man who was riding this bicycle was critically injured in an accident in Lawrence Saturday night. The man, William Van Pelt of Woodlane Road, was rushed by ambulance to the trauma center at Capital Health System at Fuld hospital in Trenton following the 9:30 p.m. Saturday accident on Lawrence Road (Route 206) and later died, authorities said.
Van Pelt was bicycling north on Lawrence Road when he apparently fell off his bike and struck his head on the curb, authorities said. Authorities said they are still investigating whether Van Pelt was hit by a passing vehicle or if he simply lost control of his bicycle. Contact Michael Ratcliffe
Philadelphia Cycling Committee Meeting Minutes S
Meeting Minutes (Draft)
Philadelphia Cycling Committee
September 18, 2007
The Meeting Was Called to Order at 6:30
Bike Sharing Update
There will be a planning meeting Thursday September 20, 6:30 PM, at Whole Foods to plan a bike sharing forum scheduled for January 17 at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Day and evening workshops are planned.
Nothing is in the current City RFP contract for street furniture/bus shelters for bike sharing. Per Russell: Tuesday, September 25 is the next City meeting about it. Russell will call his contacts to find out the results of the meeting.
The RFP is being fast tracked as the current bus shelter contract ends in January. We need to be against the RFP as it is for 20 years, with no opportunity for change.
The Clean Air Council is not supporting the RFP, and has probably been discussing the issue with Councilmen Frank Di Cicco (Streets Committee Chair) and/or Darrell Clark (Public Property Chair). Debby Schaff of the Planning Commission says the Clean Air council is concerned about the effect on transit.
ACTION:
We can oppose the contract when it comes before Council—any contract over 4 years must be approved by Council. John will track the issue. A post-card campaign may be in order when the contract comes to Council.
(Follow up) BCGP sent a white paper on the issue on 9-24 to the RFP Selection Committee.
http://bicyclecoali
South Street Bridge Update
The Regional citizens Committee of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission voted against the bridge as planned, attaching comments from SOSNA (South of South Neighbors Assn.) and CCRA (Center City Residents Assn.).
The DVRPC is expected to approve the bridge plan (vote of the RCC has no legally binding effect).
ACTION: John needs to get the BCGP's position on the SS Bridge on the BCGP website.
Education update
Tabled till next meeting. We will discuss draft of "get off the sidewalk" handout. On the other side will be tips for safe riding on paths.
Pavement Conditions Update
The stripes are now reappearing on the newly paved streets
RECOMMENDATION: That the BCGP push "Sharrows" at the next Bicycle/pedestrian Advisory council Meeting,
The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 pm.
Next BCGP Meeting October 1st 6:30, BCGP Office
Next Philadelphia Cycling Committee meeting 10/16/07, 6:30 PM at the Free Library
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