Several Bicycle Coalition board and staff members are heading for Seattle over the next few days Thunderhead Alliance Leadership Retreat and Pro Walk Pro Bike.
The Thunderhead Alliance Retreat starts today at the Island Wood Resort on Bainbridge Island, a 40 minutre ferry ride and a 3 mile bike ride from Downtown Seattle. The retreat is for bicycle and pedestrian advocacy groups to share information and learn about best practices in organizational development. It sounds wonkish but this interaction solidifies our efforts to improve bicycling and walking locally and nationally. Pro Walk is more geared toward bicycle and pedestrian planning, engineering and education. It runs from Tuesday to Friday at the Westin Hotel.
I have been in Seattle for several days and of course I began looking for the comparison with bicycling Philadelphia.
My first observation was helmets, they are required here for adults and a majority of the cyclists wear them (probably 60 to 70%). Even casual cyclists wear them.
During the rush hour downtown you see a lot of what I would call uber commuters. You see them riding on mid or high end road or mountain bikes, taking the lane, riding fast downhill or pedaling hard uphill. Some are wearing lycra or mountain bike apparel. Messenger bags or Panniers were common sights.
What you don't see are food delivery bikes, even immigrant sidewalk cyclists appear to be a small minority. I have seen a few of messengers/hipster fixed gear cyclists types but not as many as I would expect. There seems to be some factors at least downtown that deters some people from bicycling more.
As I have seen on previous trips bike on bus usage is extremely high it seems that every other bus is carrying a bike. Some buses have bike racks that hold three bicycles.
Perhaps the biggest surprise to me was how bicycle unfriendly downtown Seattle's streets are. While there is nothing you can do about the cities hills there are plenty of options available to to tame the traffic and makes cyclists feel comfortable. Nearly all the downtown streets are three lane arterials a la JFK boulevard. Motorists are polite but the fast auto and bus traffic can be overbearing on the hills when you struggle to pedal.
Say what you want about our rude drivers in Philly but I'll take the steel plates on Spruce St over the sharrows on Seattle's 4th Street any day. Some physically separated bike lanes downtown would put bicycle use into the stratosphere here.
But as a whole Seattle outperforms Philadelphia with citywide bike parking, multi use trails, green bike lanes and sharrows and a culture that supports bicycling. There is a bikestation that offers repairs and rentals and the Burke Gilman Trail is part of a network that goes all the way to the foothills of the Cascades.
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
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
A Car(bon)-Free Labor Day Picnic Idea
Are you staying in town this Labor Day weekend? Why not try a car-free picnic in Fairmount Park?
Last Memorial Day I hosted a Sunday BBQ on MLK Drive in Fairmount Park. I loved the idea of hosting a quiet picnic by the river without the noise of speeding traffic. The problem I had to solve was how to transport the BBQ supplies to our riverside perch without vehicular access. Sure, it's possible to access MLK Drive parking areas with a car on weekends, but I didn't want to be that guy who shattered the calm mix of walkers, joggers and bikers with two tons of steel and flashing hazard lights. The solution was obvious... rent a Bakfiets, of course!
Last Memorial Day I hosted a Sunday BBQ on MLK Drive in Fairmount Park. I loved the idea of hosting a quiet picnic by the river without the noise of speeding traffic. The problem I had to solve was how to transport the BBQ supplies to our riverside perch without vehicular access. Sure, it's possible to access MLK Drive parking areas with a car on weekends, but I didn't want to be that guy who shattered the calm mix of walkers, joggers and bikers with two tons of steel and flashing hazard lights. The solution was obvious... rent a Bakfiets, of course!
Made in the Netherlands, Bakfiets literally translates to "Barge Bike" and it holds all the beer, brats and buns you could need. With seatbelts for two children and enough room for the all of the team equipment, the Bakfiets is the SUV of choice for Dutch soccer moms. In fact, the Bakfiets is commonly used for transporting children, groceries and other daily necessities in the Low Countries. While it may look like the bicycle equivalent of a Chevy Suburban, it actually handles like a Cadillac once you get rolling. The long wheel base and sturdy, puncture-resistant tires ensure a smooth ride. The low center of gravity eliminates the wobble that you would expect from a two-wheeled cargo bike.
Our Memorial Day BBQ went off without a hitch and we packed out what we packed in - all thanks to the Bakfiets. I'd highly recommend it as a great way to celebrate a car(bon)-free Labor Day! (Well, except for the charcoal...)
Have a great holiday weekend!
P.S. My girlfriend says we can't buy a Bakfiets because we don't have a place to park it. PhillyBakfietsShare, anyone?
***The Bakfiets can be rented at Trophy Bikes (call ahead to reserve).
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Brandywine Tour This Weekend
As the summer wanes the bicycle club century rides heat up. This Sunday the Delaware Valley Bicycle Club will be hosting the 32nd Annual Brandywine Tour starting at 7:30 AM at Pocopson Elementary School in Chester County.
Riders can choose 26, 50, 65, 80 and 100 Mile Routes for more details go to http://dvbc.org/brandywine.php
Riders can choose 26, 50, 65, 80 and 100 Mile Routes for more details go to http://dvbc.org/brandywine.php
Is the Success of Bike on Rail Dependent on Lousy Transit Service?
How many major newspapers have a bicycle columnist? At least one. An article by the San Francisco Cycling Examiner (Ben Marks) looks at Caltrain's bicycle access and parking plan that seeks to alleviate the crushing number of passengers who bring their bikes onboard during rush hour.
A shot of the Caltrain bike car on an off-peak train circa 1997
Marks notes that while the plan's emphasis on providing more and better bike parking along with a controversial peak hour surcharge might blunt the peak hour crush a more effective mobility solution would do even better. Providing reliable connecting transit at both ends of the trip.
Which brings us to the RiverLINE. If you remember in a recent posting tension has been increasing between rush hour bicyclists and regular passengers. In response to this The Bicycle Coalition is working on a 4 year status report (sneak peak here) to look at why bicycles have integrated so well with the Rail Line. The formula seems to be easy access, favorable bike routes and skeletal or non-existent connecting bus service.
A shot of the Caltrain bike car on an off-peak train circa 1997
Marks notes that while the plan's emphasis on providing more and better bike parking along with a controversial peak hour surcharge might blunt the peak hour crush a more effective mobility solution would do even better. Providing reliable connecting transit at both ends of the trip.
Which brings us to the RiverLINE. If you remember in a recent posting tension has been increasing between rush hour bicyclists and regular passengers. In response to this The Bicycle Coalition is working on a 4 year status report (sneak peak here) to look at why bicycles have integrated so well with the Rail Line. The formula seems to be easy access, favorable bike routes and skeletal or non-existent connecting bus service.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Bike Philly Participants Are Everywhere
From South Euclid to West Babylon the Bike Philly roll call reaches far and wide. If you live in the Philadelphia suburbs chances are that someone from your town is joining us on September 14th. This ride is going to be big.
Streetfilms at SmartBike DC while Freewheelin Launches in Denver
Washington's SmartBike DC bike sharing program launched on August 13 and it didn't take long for the Streetfilms crew to try out the bikes.
On Monday Freewheelin Bike Share at the Democratic Convention kicks off in Denver with 7 stations available from 7am to 7pm. The service is free and anyone over the age of 18 can register to check out a bike.
On Monday Freewheelin Bike Share at the Democratic Convention kicks off in Denver with 7 stations available from 7am to 7pm. The service is free and anyone over the age of 18 can register to check out a bike.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Getting It Done | NYC’s Street Design and Implementations Innovations
On Wednesday August 27 from 4 to 5PM the City of Philadelphia's Office of Transportation is pleased to invite you to “Getting It Done | NYC’s Street Design and Implementation Innovations" with Ryan Russo, Director of Pedestrian and Bicycle Programs for the New York City Department of Transportation.
Mr. Russo will speak about New York City's use of innovative practices to integrate pedestrian and bicycle uses into the urban street. Please RSVP to: Ariel.Ben-Amos@phila.gov. Seating may be limited.
Synchonized bicycle and left turn signal on the 9th Avenue bike lane.
When: Wed, Aug 27, 4pm – 5pm
Where: Suite 18-029, One Parkway Building, 1515 Arch Street
Chester County's Tar and Chip on Its Shoulders
Cyclists in Chester County are fuming over the tar and chip or chip seal paving on rural roads. As one angry cyclist stated "PennDot is on a rampage of tar and chipping that has rendered many, many of the beautiful little roads beloved by cyclists into rough and dangerous gravel-strewn messes."
Three years ago there was a gentleman's agreement between the Bicycle Coalition and PennDOT. The agreement stated that :
(1) cyclists would be told about planned Tar and Chip
(2) they would roll and sweep soon after the actual tar and chip, so the roads would be usable again by bicyclists
(3) they would use smaller rocks for the chip.
But gentlemen change jobs and forget about agreements. Perhaps we should have got it in writing.
Three years ago there was a gentleman's agreement between the Bicycle Coalition and PennDOT. The agreement stated that :
(1) cyclists would be told about planned Tar and Chip
(2) they would roll and sweep soon after the actual tar and chip, so the roads would be usable again by bicyclists
(3) they would use smaller rocks for the chip.
But gentlemen change jobs and forget about agreements. Perhaps we should have got it in writing.
Last Day of Pre-Registration for Commerce Bank Bike Philly
Today is the final day for Commerce Bank Bike Philly's pre-registration rate. Secure your place today and get a pre-registration discount and free t-shirt.
A family-friendly bike tour celebrating the freedom of car-free Philadelphia streets, Commerce Bank Bike Philly rides through historic neighborhoods and explores hidden corners of Fairmount Park. Bicyclists of all skill levels are welcome with distances of 10, 20, 35 or 50 miles available.
A family-friendly bike tour celebrating the freedom of car-free Philadelphia streets, Commerce Bank Bike Philly rides through historic neighborhoods and explores hidden corners of Fairmount Park. Bicyclists of all skill levels are welcome with distances of 10, 20, 35 or 50 miles available.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Attitudes And Behaviors Survey
We refer to this report a lot, previously only a brief summary was available. Finally the Federal Government has released the complete report. We embedded the summary below.
There are two other parts available with the detailed analysis here which has some interesting findings and the methods report here.
There are two other parts available with the detailed analysis here which has some interesting findings and the methods report here.
Bicycle Ambassadors Hit the Road
This morning our Bicycle Ambassadors tested different outreach techniques in Center City today. Here Jon Hojnacki holds up a Share the Road sign at 22nd and Locust St. Ambassadors were also engaging passing cyclists, briefing them on safe riding techniques.
The Ambassadors will be at an undisclosed location in University City tomorrow, if you are biking by please stop and say hi.
The Ambassadors will be at an undisclosed location in University City tomorrow, if you are biking by please stop and say hi.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Moving On Up
Commerce Bank Bike Philly is moving up to Eakins Oval! This year's Finish Line Festival will wrap up our day of car-free biking on the Parkway, in front of the Art Museum steps. The Festival will include plenty of food and drink, including nourishment from Whole Foods and lots of hot dogs from Commerce Bank, free snapshots of riders in front of the Rocky steps, free bike maps and riding advice from our Bicycle Ambassadors, and valet bike parking by Neighborhood Bike Works.
Even with the bigger space at the finish, we still need to cap registrations at 5,000 this year so be sure to secure your place now. There are only two days left to get the pre-registration rate (and free t-shirt).
Even with the bigger space at the finish, we still need to cap registrations at 5,000 this year so be sure to secure your place now. There are only two days left to get the pre-registration rate (and free t-shirt).
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Our Response to Yesterday's Inquirer Article
Yesterday's article in the Inquirer that pitted bicyclists against other path users contained some inaccuracies that we would like to address:
The Bicycle Coalition has been in discussions with Fairmount Park for over a year to improve safety on the River Drive pathways.
Due in part to our encouragement, Fairmount Park staff developed a re-striping plan for the entire loop (and the trail down on Schuylkill Banks) to help keep everyone to the right and at safe speeds. Fairmount Park is putting the final touches on the plan, and will be putting it out to bid this fall.
We also met with the Police Department about enforcing vehicular speed limits to make it safer for peds/bikes to cross MLK Drive, for bicyclists who are in the traffic lanes during normal hours and for people on the path who are vulnerable when cars lose control and crash up onto the path. We urged the Police Department to enforce the speed limit and to put up “driver feedback” signs (placed under a speed limit sign saying “your speed is……”). We have also been urging the Administration to fix the path on MLK Drive that has been damaged by tree roots.
This problem has finally risen to the point where Fairmount Park are the Streets Department meeting in the fall to figure out how to pay for repaving. The Coalition has also initiated a Bicycle Ambassador program to get trained bicyclists out on the trail to engage all trail users about safety.
In the long term we urge the City to reinstate full weekend closings to MLK Drive and to consider an extreme makeover on the Drive that would slow traffic down, invite cyclists to use the roadway and breathe life into an underused section of the park.
An incredibly simple rendering of a two lane MLK Drive with bike lanes and center greenspace.
The Bicycle Coalition has been in discussions with Fairmount Park for over a year to improve safety on the River Drive pathways.
Due in part to our encouragement, Fairmount Park staff developed a re-striping plan for the entire loop (and the trail down on Schuylkill Banks) to help keep everyone to the right and at safe speeds. Fairmount Park is putting the final touches on the plan, and will be putting it out to bid this fall.
We also met with the Police Department about enforcing vehicular speed limits to make it safer for peds/bikes to cross MLK Drive, for bicyclists who are in the traffic lanes during normal hours and for people on the path who are vulnerable when cars lose control and crash up onto the path. We urged the Police Department to enforce the speed limit and to put up “driver feedback” signs (placed under a speed limit sign saying “your speed is……”). We have also been urging the Administration to fix the path on MLK Drive that has been damaged by tree roots.
This problem has finally risen to the point where Fairmount Park are the Streets Department meeting in the fall to figure out how to pay for repaving. The Coalition has also initiated a Bicycle Ambassador program to get trained bicyclists out on the trail to engage all trail users about safety.
In the long term we urge the City to reinstate full weekend closings to MLK Drive and to consider an extreme makeover on the Drive that would slow traffic down, invite cyclists to use the roadway and breathe life into an underused section of the park.
An incredibly simple rendering of a two lane MLK Drive with bike lanes and center greenspace.
Bowling Bash for Bikes
Sign up for Commerce Bank Bike Philly and get a bowling bonus! Our Saturday pre-party will be held at North Bowl this year. Hosted by Brian and his crew at Keswick Cycle (the force behind SRAM Red Bowl earlier this year) this promises to be a great warm-down from the Scenic Schuylkill and a great warm-up for Commerce Bank Bike Philly.
There are only three days left for the pre-registration rate for Commerce Bank Bike Philly! We're capping registration at 5,000 riders this year so don't wait to secure your place.
There are only three days left for the pre-registration rate for Commerce Bank Bike Philly! We're capping registration at 5,000 riders this year so don't wait to secure your place.
Monday, August 18, 2008
It's a Family Affair
We started Commerce Bank Bike Philly with the motto A Tour for Everyone. In our first year, about 15% of our participants were riding as a family. This year, almost 25% of our riders will be riding with kids.
The word is spreading about how great it is to ride car-free with the full support of our ride volunteers -- you get mechanical support, a ride to the finish if you need it, food and drink along the way, and encouragement from our marshals at every turn.
Don't miss out on the family fun -- there are only four more days for the pre-registration rate! Register now to secure your place (we are capping registrations this year at 5,000), get a discounted rate and a free t-shirt.
The word is spreading about how great it is to ride car-free with the full support of our ride volunteers -- you get mechanical support, a ride to the finish if you need it, food and drink along the way, and encouragement from our marshals at every turn.
Don't miss out on the family fun -- there are only four more days for the pre-registration rate! Register now to secure your place (we are capping registrations this year at 5,000), get a discounted rate and a free t-shirt.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Summer Streets Part Deux
Our second incursion into Manhattan was a big success. Our expedition team had fantastic weather to explore Summer Streets and we also took part of the afternoon to look at many other projects that are reshaping the city.
On Park Avenue north of Grand Central Station. From left - Claudia, John, Paul, Susan, Alex, Hans, Russell, Andy and Bruce
Some minor tweaking to a near perfect event would be to coax the numerous businesses to set up their wares in front of their stores, like an oceanfront boardwalk. The stores didn't look busy to me but the lemonade stands were doing a brisk business.
When you arrive at the Brooklyn Bridge there is no obvious route to the East River Esplanade. It took a little map reading to get there, but the end result was worth it.
The last time I visited the riverfront paths in Manhattan was two years ago on an equally spectacular Saturday and there has definitely been a huge uptick in bike traffic. It appears that the Summer Streets events, Waterfalls exhibit and the Governor's Island Ferry are bringing in huge crowds to the bikeway system.
Gansevoort Plaza in the Meatpacking District is an example of reclaiming street space on the cheap. Simply put up some stones and planters to keep the cars out.
The 9th Avenue cycletrack is no longer a lonely demonstration project. Workers are putting the finishing touches on Broadway Boulevard. The cycletrack is open and workers will be adding planters and street furniture to the newly created open space.
This video shows the genius of the project, it's left turn/bike signal phasing. Please pardon my over the top narration.
The bike on bus and train choices between New York and Philadelphia are plentiful we used every one of them. Our riders took SEPTA/NJ Transit Rail, Bolt Bus and Chinatown Buses to get there and back. No one reported any problems taking their bikes on board.
On Park Avenue north of Grand Central Station. From left - Claudia, John, Paul, Susan, Alex, Hans, Russell, Andy and Bruce
Some minor tweaking to a near perfect event would be to coax the numerous businesses to set up their wares in front of their stores, like an oceanfront boardwalk. The stores didn't look busy to me but the lemonade stands were doing a brisk business.
When you arrive at the Brooklyn Bridge there is no obvious route to the East River Esplanade. It took a little map reading to get there, but the end result was worth it.The last time I visited the riverfront paths in Manhattan was two years ago on an equally spectacular Saturday and there has definitely been a huge uptick in bike traffic. It appears that the Summer Streets events, Waterfalls exhibit and the Governor's Island Ferry are bringing in huge crowds to the bikeway system.
Gansevoort Plaza in the Meatpacking District is an example of reclaiming street space on the cheap. Simply put up some stones and planters to keep the cars out.
The 9th Avenue cycletrack is no longer a lonely demonstration project. Workers are putting the finishing touches on Broadway Boulevard. The cycletrack is open and workers will be adding planters and street furniture to the newly created open space.
This video shows the genius of the project, it's left turn/bike signal phasing. Please pardon my over the top narration.
The bike on bus and train choices between New York and Philadelphia are plentiful we used every one of them. Our riders took SEPTA/NJ Transit Rail, Bolt Bus and Chinatown Buses to get there and back. No one reported any problems taking their bikes on board.
Philadelphia Bicycling Weekend
In only our second year, the Philadelphia Bicycling Weekend is becoming a tradition. Anchored by a century and a car-free ride, we've added the Commerce Bank Bike Philly pre-party and now Neighborhood Bike Works is joining in with their Bike Part Art Show opening on Friday night.
You can pre-register for the Scenic Schuylkill Century and Commerce Bank Bike Philly together -- but act fast. The pre-registration rate for either ride is only available for five more days.
You can pre-register for the Scenic Schuylkill Century and Commerce Bank Bike Philly together -- but act fast. The pre-registration rate for either ride is only available for five more days.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
The State(s) of Commerce Bank Bike Philly
Last year we had riders from 12 states. So far in 2008, we already have registrations from 16, including California, Oregon, Oklahoma, Georgia, Ohio, Minnesota and New Hampshire.
There are only six days left for pre-registration for Commerce Bank Bike Philly! We're capping registration at 5,000 riders this year so don't wait to secure your place.
There are only six days left for pre-registration for Commerce Bank Bike Philly! We're capping registration at 5,000 riders this year so don't wait to secure your place.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Montgomery County Eyes Colebrookdale Spur
The East Penn Railroad is abandoning its Colebrookdale Spur which runs from Pottstown through Boyertown in Berks County up to Colebrookdale.
Montgomery County which is setting the national standard in rails to trails preservation intends to file a notice of interim trail use with the STB for the portion within Montgomery County and
to railbank this line for a future trail.
Meanwhile in Berks County the Reading Eagle reports that officials are about to pay a consultant $110 an hour to study the feasibility of preserving the line as a railroad.
This is not the first time that Montgomery County's trail plans clashed with other county plans. Bucks County recently paid for a study for the feasibility of Bus Rapid Transit along the Newtown Branch. Although we have never heard the results of that study Montgomery County is planning to grade a small portion of that line for a trail through Lorimar Park, connecting with the Pennypack Trail in Philadelphia.
As you can see on the map a trail along this corridor would connect Boyertown to the Schuylkill River Trail in Pottstown.
View Larger Map
Montgomery County which is setting the national standard in rails to trails preservation intends to file a notice of interim trail use with the STB for the portion within Montgomery County and
to railbank this line for a future trail.
Meanwhile in Berks County the Reading Eagle reports that officials are about to pay a consultant $110 an hour to study the feasibility of preserving the line as a railroad.
This is not the first time that Montgomery County's trail plans clashed with other county plans. Bucks County recently paid for a study for the feasibility of Bus Rapid Transit along the Newtown Branch. Although we have never heard the results of that study Montgomery County is planning to grade a small portion of that line for a trail through Lorimar Park, connecting with the Pennypack Trail in Philadelphia.
As you can see on the map a trail along this corridor would connect Boyertown to the Schuylkill River Trail in Pottstown.
View Larger Map
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Hey Check Out Our New Website!
I know, you loved our website. It reminded you of that AOL account that you had on your computer that ran on Windows 95 and your 56K modem. Do you remember that exploding whale video? I get a little tearful myself.
Well it's 2008 and we have to say goodbye to our web 1.0 masterpiece. You can still take a glance at our old friend (minus the images) on the Wayback Machine.
In its place is a new, exciting, fluid and dynamic webpage that radiates with up to date information. Check it out.
Well it's 2008 and we have to say goodbye to our web 1.0 masterpiece. You can still take a glance at our old friend (minus the images) on the Wayback Machine.
In its place is a new, exciting, fluid and dynamic webpage that radiates with up to date information. Check it out.
Folk Festival to Impact Perkiomen Trail
From the Montgomery County Parks Department - Please be aware that the section of trail between Harmon Road and Haim Road (Camp Rainbow) may have authorized vehicle traffic moving in/out and congestion on August 13 through August 17, due to the upcoming Philadelphia Folk Festival. Thanks for your patience.
The Folk Festival Grounds are next to the Perkiomen Trail
See the earlier post about getting to the Philadelphia Folk Festival By Bicycle.
The Folk Festival Grounds are next to the Perkiomen Trail
See the earlier post about getting to the Philadelphia Folk Festival By Bicycle.
Conshohocken Fire Affects Schuylkill River Trail
The SRT in Conshohocken was affected by the huge fire that destroyed 3 of the 6 buildings in the Riverwalk complex.
The path was used for firefighter access and was a staging area for evacuees. And helicopter shots seen on the news looked like there was debris on the path.
There is no word on the status of the path but it's likely that bike traffic may be detoured off the path onto Elm St.
View Larger Map
The path was used for firefighter access and was a staging area for evacuees. And helicopter shots seen on the news looked like there was debris on the path.
There is no word on the status of the path but it's likely that bike traffic may be detoured off the path onto Elm St.
View Larger Map
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
NYC Summer Streets video
Watch this short video shot last Saturday by Rob and Sarah Stuart of NYC's Summer Streets 7 mile stretch of closed streets in Manhattan. It's a preview of this coming Saturday's tour (8/16) with Bike Coalition's John Boyle and Alex Doty, and other Bicycle Coalition members. If you are interested in joining the group, send John an email at fjohnboyle@gmail.com . Many thanks to EvolveStrategies for producing the video.
Courier Post Looks at the Low Rider subculture
The Courier Post profiled the popularity of Low Rider bikes in the urban Latino Community. The "Wet Chicken Club' is a Camden based club for those with a passion for Low Riders.
Tricked Out Two Wheelers go from hobby to passion
Tricked Out Two Wheelers go from hobby to passion
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Gihon Jordan, 58, Traffic Engineer
Philadelphia Inquirer, August 12, 2008
By Gayle Ronan Sims
Inquirer Staff Writer
Gihon Jordan, 58, a Philadelphia Streets Department traffic engineer who worked to make the city safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and the disabled, died of colon cancer Thursday at his home in West Philadelphia.
Mr. Jordan battled bureaucracy, and combined vision and common sense in his quest to make Philadelphia a better place. He was responsible for just about everything involving traffic in Center City, North and South Philadelphia, and the river wards. This included street signs, malfunctioning traffic signals and the closing of streets.
But he also solved bigger problems. While scientifically designing and implementing convention-defying solutions, he earned a national reputation as an expert traffic calmer.
"I don't want to move vehicles around," Mr. Jordan said in a 1994 article in The Inquirer. "I want to move people around. Philadelphia was designed for the pedestrian, not for the car."
When he took over as traffic engineer for the city in 1993, Mr. Jordan worked to get more people to walk, bike and take mass transit.
Especially biking. Mr. Jordan, who never owned a car, was responsible for putting city policemen on bicycle patrols; he designed cross-state bike routes for the state Department of Transportation, and bike paths along the river drives and on city streets.
After earning a bachelor's in electrical engineering in 1973 from the University of Pennsylvania, Mr. Jordan pedaled solo across the United States three times and through 21 countries, including Uganda, Ethiopia and Senegal. Along the way, he spread the word about bicyclists' rights, safety, pollution, health, maps, crime, energy demands and road design.
Mr. Jordan was an early and active board member of the Bicycle Coalition of Philadelphia and numerous other biking organizations. In 1984, he wrote "Bicycling, Transportation and Energy: Handbook for Planners," one of dozens of such publications he wrote. He was on the pedestrian committee of the National Academy of Science's Transportation Research Board.
Mr. Jordan earned a master's in energy management and policy in 1982 from Penn's Wharton School. He also studied religious thought. His first name, Gihon, came from the Old Testament: "I'm on Page 2 of Genesis; Adam and Eve are on Page 3," he noted in 1994. He was a Quaker who called himself "an ethicist."
Raised in Edison, N.J., Mr. Jordan was the grandson of a civil engineer and Penn professor who led the construction of U.S. Route 2 in Montana.
In Philadelphia, Mr. Jordan pushed for more stop signs and fewer stop lights, which he wanted converted into energy-efficient LED lights; better pedestrian signage; and safe, paved shoulders.
"One of his most cherished accomplishments was helping start the Warrington Community Garden in West Philadelphia," said his wife of three years, Susan Edens. She is a cultural landscape architect at Independence National Historical Park and shares her husband's passion for improving the world.
"Gihon knew the dangers and joys of riding a bike in the city. He was a safe biker, always wore a helmet. He had a road bicycle which he kept in good repair," she said. "He rode in the rain and at night."
After five years with New Jersey Department of Transportation as a specialist in air quality, bicycles and transportation, Mr. Jordan came to Philadelphia to work for the Planning Commission, where he studied the demographics of North Philadelphia until 1989. He was named project and traffic engineer by the Streets Department, where he worked until 1993. For 12 years, he was the Streets Department's Center City district traffic engineer. He retired in 2005.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Jordan is survived by a brother, Paul; sisters Patricia Williams and Joan; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is being planned for September. Donations may be made to the Gihon Jordan Scholarship Fund, Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals, Box 93, Cedarburg, Wis., 53012.
Contact staff writer Gayle Ronan Sims at 215-854-4185 or gsims@phillynews.com.
To leave a rememberance, please go to Gihon Jordan's Legacy page
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Summer Streets a Blast and NYC an Inspiration
My husband Rob Stuart and I went to NYC yesterday to ride in Summer Streets because we can't make it to next Saturday's tour being led by the Bike Coalition's Advocacy Director John Boyle. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and it made me hankering for car-free Philly streets in the upcoming Commerce Bank Bike Philly Ride on September 14th. There's something about riding on empty streets that is exhilerating and liberating all at the same time. I highly recommend going up to NYC next weekend with John.
The route is easy; we started at City Hall, up Lafayette Street, past Chinatown, Astor Place, Union Square to Park Avenue South, up to the viaduct around Grand Central Station (terrific views of the Chrysler Building, 42nd Street and a great photo spot) through the tunnel to Park Avenue (don't miss the free lemonade served by St. Bart's minister) to 72nd Street with a direct feed into Central Park. Up and back takes 2 hours with stops. Lots of cops and marshalls, we never felt unsafe or at risk. There's plenty to drink, but no port-a-potties. We bumped into Dani Simons, the NYCDOT staffer who organized the event, Noah Budnick, Deputy Director of Transportation Alternatives and met Oscar Diaz from Bogota who is consulting with NYCDOT on Summer Streets given his experience with Cyclovia.
(Click on this photo to see more posted the Bike Coalition Flickr site)If you have the energy, you can also "Bike the Falls" to see the very cool waterfalls by Olaf Eliasson, take a free ferry ride to Governor's Island (awesome views of lower Manhattan), see David Byrne's playing the building installation next door to the ferry terminal, ride up Hudson River Park, check out the separated bike lane experiment on 9th Avenue and 16st Street and the new traffic calming at Times Square. Probably all too much to pack into one day, but there's no doubt that NYC has a lot for a bicycle tourist to see.
As a former NYC resident (1980s), it's mind boggling to see what NYC has done to its streets and riverfronts. Clearly, NYC is a testament to what can be done with political will (Mayor Bloomberg), competent leadership in city government (NYCDOT Commissioner Sadik-Kahn) and an energized bicycling public. I'm anxious to have Philadelphia get its "legs" and do the same.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Why Speed Matters on the River Drives
A stolen car went flying across the Kelly Drive trail and into the Schuylkill River on Friday morning about 8:00 a.m., at the sharp curve just north of Boat House Row. Luckily no trail users were hurt. Driver swam to safety and is in custody.
BCGP member Mike Szlagyi who saw much of the melee asked a pointed question: Would Fairmount Park consider installing a barrier the whole length of River Drives to protect trail users?
Check out this posting of an out of control car that narrowly missed a cyclist on the MLK Drive path in June.
It really is a matter of time before a tragedy occurs on these busy paths.
BCGP member Mike Szlagyi who saw much of the melee asked a pointed question: Would Fairmount Park consider installing a barrier the whole length of River Drives to protect trail users?
Check out this posting of an out of control car that narrowly missed a cyclist on the MLK Drive path in June.
It really is a matter of time before a tragedy occurs on these busy paths.
Friday, August 08, 2008
Remembering Gihon Jordan
After a long battle with cancer, Gihon Jordan passed away on Thursday evening. Gihon was one of the original board members of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and was a longtime champion for bicyclist and pedestrian rights.
Many of you knew Gihon when he was a transportation engineer with the Philadelphia Streets Department. Gihon retired in 2005 but remained active with the Bicycle Coalition board and helped win bicycle and pedestrian design changes for the soon to be rebuilt South Street Bridge.
Susan Edens, Gihon's widow, has set up a memorial fund for Gihon at the Association for Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals:
Gihon Jordan Memorial Scholarship Fund
Association for Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals
PO Box 93
Cedarburg WI 53012
A memorial service for Gihon will be held in September at the Chestnut Hill Monthly Meeting Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The date will be announced on the calendar at http://www.quaker.org/chestnuthill/.
Gihon Jordan looking for problems at the Wissahickon Transit Center 2002
Sue Prant (McNamera) noted this video of Gihon challenging traffic on the MLK Drive bridge in 2007
We encourage you to visit Gihon's Memorial Page where you can sign the memory book with your thoughts about Gihon - http://gihonjordan.legacy.com
Many of you knew Gihon when he was a transportation engineer with the Philadelphia Streets Department. Gihon retired in 2005 but remained active with the Bicycle Coalition board and helped win bicycle and pedestrian design changes for the soon to be rebuilt South Street Bridge.
Susan Edens, Gihon's widow, has set up a memorial fund for Gihon at the Association for Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals:
Gihon Jordan Memorial Scholarship Fund
Association for Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals
PO Box 93
Cedarburg WI 53012
A memorial service for Gihon will be held in September at the Chestnut Hill Monthly Meeting Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The date will be announced on the calendar at http://www.quaker.org/chestnuthill/.
Gihon Jordan looking for problems at the Wissahickon Transit Center 2002
Sue Prant (McNamera) noted this video of Gihon challenging traffic on the MLK Drive bridge in 2007
We encourage you to visit Gihon's Memorial Page where you can sign the memory book with your thoughts about Gihon - http://gihonjordan.legacy.com
Pedestrian Refuge on MLK Opens
Yesterday construction crews opened up the new pedestrian refuge on MLK Drive at the soon to be finished switcback at the Spring Garden Bridge adjacent to the Art Museum. Next month the Streets Department will be painting a crosswalk and a Yield to Pedestrian portable sign at the refuge.
As those who travel here know this can be a very tricky crossing. Even with the refuge in place excessive vehicle speed and limited sight distance will still make this crossing a challenge. The Bicycle Coalition would like to see additional traffic calming measures here such a soft rumble strips (strips of raised paint).
As those who travel here know this can be a very tricky crossing. Even with the refuge in place excessive vehicle speed and limited sight distance will still make this crossing a challenge. The Bicycle Coalition would like to see additional traffic calming measures here such a soft rumble strips (strips of raised paint).
Summer Streets Here We Come
NYC's Summer Streets debuts tomorrow. It's happening Saturdays August 9th, 16th and 23rd from 7am to 1pm. A great opportunity to see what how NYC operates the first East Coast cyclovia. A 6.9 mile route from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park will be closed to cars and open to bicyclists, pedestrians etc.
The Bicycle Coalition is leading a group on the second Saturday, August 16th. If you're interested in joining the Coalition, meet at Greeley Square a triangular park on 32nd St between 6th Ave and Broadway at 10 AM. This is one and a half blocks east of Penn Station and only a few blocks down 32nd St to Park Avenue. Here is the streetview of Greeley Square http://tinyurl.com/greeleysq
contact John Boyle at john@bicyclecoalition.org or at 267-253-7958 for more information.
If you go tomorrow, send us a message about your experience and any photos! bike@bicyclecoalition.org
The Bicycle Coalition is leading a group on the second Saturday, August 16th. If you're interested in joining the Coalition, meet at Greeley Square a triangular park on 32nd St between 6th Ave and Broadway at 10 AM. This is one and a half blocks east of Penn Station and only a few blocks down 32nd St to Park Avenue. Here is the streetview of Greeley Square http://tinyurl.com/greeleysq
contact John Boyle at john@bicyclecoalition.org or at 267-253-7958 for more information.
If you go tomorrow, send us a message about your experience and any photos! bike@bicyclecoalition.org
David Byrne's Custom Bike Racks
I know, enough with New York this and New York that. The Mets won, the Phillies lost. Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah. But you got to give former Talking Head David Byrne credit for walking the walk.
David Byrne is one of the judges for the City Racks bike rack competition but it looks like he's running with the trophy.
David Byrne is one of the judges for the City Racks bike rack competition but it looks like he's running with the trophy.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Americans Want to Flip Transportation Spending
Did you know that the federal government spends roughly 80% of its transportation dollars on roads and only 20% on public transportation? Only 23% of Americans think that makes sense. A recent poll found that given a hypothetical $100 to invest in transportation, Americans said they would spend $62 on trains and rail, buses, bike paths, and sidewalks, and only $38 on roads. (Source: Harris Interactive poll [+/- 3 pts]). In other words, Americans want to spend 63% of transportation dollars on bicycling, walking and public transportation, nearly tripling the 22% now spent. They also want to spend 38% on roads, nearly half of the 78% that is currently spent. A coalition of transportation, housing and public interest organizations commissioned the poll in late 2007. The results are impressive.
Update on Broadway Boulevard in Manhattan
NYC DOT workers are diligently working on completing the extreme makeover of Broadway between Times Square and Herald Square. The physically separated bike lanes and pedestrian spaces should be complete by August 15. From the Gothamist.
Uploaded on August 4, 2008
by carolitajohnson on Flickr
Speaking of Manhattan don't forget that Summer Streets will take place over the next 3 Saturdays along Park Avenue and Lafayette Street down to the Brooklyn Bridge.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Manayunk Residents Advocate for the Ivy Ridge Trail
The Ivy Ridge Trail is an elevated short connector route which will connect the Cynwyd Trail at the Manayunk Viaduct with the Ivy Ridge Train Station and the Manayunk Canal Towpath (the dirt portion of the Schuylkill River Trail).
For more information go to Ivyridgetrail.org
For more information go to Ivyridgetrail.org
The Bicycle Coalition in the News
Here are some news stories where the BCGP has been mentioned in print over the past few weeks.
Uneasy riders bemoan quality of infrastructure
Cherry Hill Courier Post
Bike commuters having a two-wheel revolution
Philadelphia Inquirer
Free parking in Center City...for Bicycles
Philadelphia Inquirer
SEPTA's Monthly Ridership Reaches 25-Year High
Evening Bulletin, PA - Jul 23, 2008
CityPaper July 9
Monday, August 04, 2008
Bicyclist Killed on Roosevelt Boulevard - Driver Charged
In what appears to be the first media reported fatality of the year in Philadelphia a bicyclist crossing Roosevelt Blvd at 7th St in Hunting Park was killed early Sunday morning.
View Larger Map
Posted on Mon, Aug. 4, 2008
Driver faces homicide charge in bike accident
Police charged a man with homicide by vehicle and driving under the influence after he struck and killed a bicyclist who was crossing Roosevelt Boulevard in the Hunting Park section of the city shortly before 2 a.m. yesterday (August 3).
Police did not name the suspect, who was in custody. The identity of the victim, a white man in his 40s, had not been determined yesterday.
The accident occurred near the intersection with Seventh Street, as the bicyclist ignored a traffic signal and crossed the busy highway, according to police spokeswoman Tanya Little.
Though the bicyclist had caused the crash, Little said, the driver was tested for alcohol and was found to be driving while under the influence. - Jan Hefler
View Larger Map
Posted on Mon, Aug. 4, 2008
Driver faces homicide charge in bike accident
Police charged a man with homicide by vehicle and driving under the influence after he struck and killed a bicyclist who was crossing Roosevelt Boulevard in the Hunting Park section of the city shortly before 2 a.m. yesterday (August 3).
Police did not name the suspect, who was in custody. The identity of the victim, a white man in his 40s, had not been determined yesterday.
The accident occurred near the intersection with Seventh Street, as the bicyclist ignored a traffic signal and crossed the busy highway, according to police spokeswoman Tanya Little.
Though the bicyclist had caused the crash, Little said, the driver was tested for alcohol and was found to be driving while under the influence. - Jan Hefler
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Getting to the Philadelphia Folk Festival By Bike
Ah, the Philadelphia Folk Festival, the weekend of the 15th to 17th of August. Alas it's not in Philadelphia. It's 38 bicycle miles away just north of Schwenksville at the Old Poole Farm. No public transportation, so PhillyCarShare and Zipcar will be the choice for many Center City residents on a day trip. But you can get there easily by bike
View Larger Map to Zoom Out
Overview of the Folk Festival Site, the blue line is the Perkiomen Trail
The basic directions are easy take the Schuylkill River trail to the Perkiomen Trail and the festival is on your right. The water gate is right on the trail, but you will probably need to check in and park your bike at the main gate which is less than a mile off the trail.
You can shorten your trip via SEPTA, the Route 93 bus stops 8 miles down the trail in Collegeville at 3rd and Main (see below). Regional Rail R6 and the Route 100 High Speed Line are 21 miles down the trail at the Norristown Transportation Center.
View Larger Map to Zoom Out
Overview of the Folk Festival Site, the blue line is the Perkiomen Trail
The basic directions are easy take the Schuylkill River trail to the Perkiomen Trail and the festival is on your right. The water gate is right on the trail, but you will probably need to check in and park your bike at the main gate which is less than a mile off the trail.
You can shorten your trip via SEPTA, the Route 93 bus stops 8 miles down the trail in Collegeville at 3rd and Main (see below). Regional Rail R6 and the Route 100 High Speed Line are 21 miles down the trail at the Norristown Transportation Center.
SCU's - Lake Nockamixon Century
On Sunday, August 24, ride the SCU Lake Nockamixon Century, starting from Central Bucks South High School, 1100 Folly Road, Warrington, PA 18976 4 Miles from the SEPTA R5 Del Val College Station. Ride scenic routes in Bucks County of 25, 50, 75, or 100 miles over rolling terrain with a few hills. A hilly 107-mile Intensive Climbing Unit century route is also being offered. All riders will visit picturesque Lake Galena in Peace Valley Park. 50-to-107-mile riders will also visit our well-stocked rest stop at scenic Lake Nockamixon.
Registration: $20 (SCU members), $25 (non-members) by August 22. Registration on the day of the event will be available for $20 (SCU members) or $30 (non-members)
Register online at:
http://www.bikereg.
or download the brochure from:
http://www.suburban
If you have a slow Internet connection or just need a mail-in registration form, download the one-page flyer:
http://www.suburban
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Hey Convention Delegates - -Sign Up for Freewheelin!
Going to Denver or the Twin Cities for the conventions? If you are not your Congressman, Mayor or Ward Leader probably will. Tell them to sign up for the Freewheelin bike-share program.
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Members of Congress Lead ''Bike-Partisan'' Campaign to Support Bike-Sharing at Conventions
U.S. Representatives Deliver Bike-Sharing Challenge to Delegates: 10,000 rides and 25,000 miles! Host City Mayors Hickenlooper (Denver), Coleman (St. Paul) and Rybak (Minneapolis) among First to Register for Convention Bike-Sharing Program at freewheelinwaytogo.com
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--What’s good for the environment is often what’s good for the body and the spirit, whether you’re a Democrat or a Republican. And today, Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-3), James Oberstar (D-MN-8), Thomas Petri (R-WI-6), and Zach Wamp (R-TN-3) issued a spirited challenge to attendees of the forthcoming political conventions: join together in a bike-sharing initiative to ride 25,000 miles at the conventions. The goal is to show that bikes are a great solution for short trips and recreation, and at the same time will reduce both conventions’ carbon footprints, traffic, parking congestion and transportation costs, not to mention reducing calories.
The challenge represented the kick-off of a national effort to register convention attendees for Freewheelin, an innovative bike-sharing program developed by Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) and the cycling advocacy organization Bikes Belong. The program will bring 1,000 bikes to Denver and Minneapolis-St. Paul for anyone 18 or over to use during the Democratic and Republican political conventions.
Humana pioneered the bike-sharing program in 2007 in its corporate hometown of Louisville, Ky. The initiative focuses on fun as well as health by encouraging people to get on a bike and ride with friends, just like when they were kids. Twenty-one percent of those riding were not previously involved in exercise activity.
Go Freewheelin
Humana and Bikes Belong have launched a new Web site – www.freewheelinwaytogo.com – in an effort to pre-register thousands of convention guests for the program. And, among the first to sign up for bikes are the mayors of the host cities, including Mayor John Hickenlooper, Denver, host of the Aug. 25-28 Democratic National Convention; and Mayors Chris Coleman (St. Paul) and R.T. Rybak (Minneapolis). Minneapolis and St. Paul are hosting the Sept. 1-4 Republican National Convention. By registering, the mayors – along with other convention-goers – are making a commitment to both their personal health and the health of the environment.
Bike-sharing – the international social movement whereby bikes are situated at designated stations throughout cities for individuals to use for a specified amount of time – is essentially a call to action for those who prefer an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and healthy transportation alternative. The initiative is gaining momentum throughout the United States, including active or planned programs in cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, Philadelphia and Chicago. Freewheelin at the conventions marks the biggest bike-sharing program in the United States to date. Such an undertaking would be impossible without the participation and active support of Bikes Belong, elected officials in the host cities, and their biking communities.
How Freewheelin Works
Bikes will be available in Denver for the Democratic convention from Aug. 25-28; and in Minneapolis-St. Paul for the Republican convention from Sept. 1-4. Participants who register in advance via the Freewheelin Web site will be ready to check out a bike from one of the multiple bike stations throughout the convention cities. Online registration and use of the bikes during the conventions is free, with all related costs paid by Humana and Bikes Belong. Bikes will be available beginning at 7 a.m. each day of the conventions, and don’t have to be returned to a bike station until 7 p.m. each day. The bikes can be returned to any station.
“The eyes of the world will be on Denver and Minneapolis-St. Paul for these historic conventions,” said Jonathan T. Lord, M.D., Humana senior vice president and chief innovation officer. “Bikes and bike sharing are a way for political leaders of the United States to demonstrate our nation’s commitment and leadership in health and sustainability to the rest of the world. We are challenging residents of both cities, delegates, delegations and media members to participate, compete and have fun!”
Freewheelin bike stations will be set up throughout the cities, near the convention centers and major hotel complexes. When users are finished with a bike, they can simply return their bike to any convenient Freewheelin bike station. Those interested in the program, but unable to register online, can also register in person at any Freewheelin station. Greeters will be on site at each bike station to assist with registration and route planning, and safety specialists will be available to answer questions and address concerns.
Freewheelin is one of a number of initiatives that Humana is developing to encourage people to have fun and get active, including everything from rewards for walking to video games that promote exercise.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Rolling Canvas Art Collective - Bikes as Art
Created to celebrate the union of the art and urban bicycle cultures, the Rolling Canvas Art Collective will highlight and encourage the use of bicycles as a means of artistic expression.
These twenty-plus artists will recreate basic, fixed gear bicycles into one-of-a-kind representations of their creative methods ranging from sculpture and metal work, to street art and paint. The art installations will be auctioned off to the public, with each artist donating a portion of the proceeds to Neighborhood Bike Works of Philadelphia.
The public gallery opening and auction was tonight at Media Bureau Gallery in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia. However the exhibit is open to the public through the end of August.
But don't despair a public online auction will begin on Monday, August 4th at 12 PM EST and run through Thursday, August 14th at 12 PM EST. Photos of the pieces and auction links will be posted online as they become available.
Changes coming to Spring Garden St and MLK Drive
We don't have the precise drawings but we are trying to give people an idea of what the configuration of the Spring Garden St switchback connection to MLK Drive will be.
View Larger Map
The big news is that Spring Garden and Art Museum Drive will be signalized, with a crosswalk allowing for easier transition from Spring Garden St to the Art Museum Area.
Meanwhile down on MLK a new crosswalk with yield signs will be put into place. We are sceptical about the traffic really yielding to non-motorized traffic without any traffic calming devices but we will see. Another concern a new curb cut in front of the Art Museum at the entrance to the MLK path that is giving trail users fits. We are in touch with the streets department and will encourage them to come up with a safe solution.
This portion of the Westbank Greenway project is due to be completed by the end of September.
View Larger Map
The big news is that Spring Garden and Art Museum Drive will be signalized, with a crosswalk allowing for easier transition from Spring Garden St to the Art Museum Area.
Meanwhile down on MLK a new crosswalk with yield signs will be put into place. We are sceptical about the traffic really yielding to non-motorized traffic without any traffic calming devices but we will see. Another concern a new curb cut in front of the Art Museum at the entrance to the MLK path that is giving trail users fits. We are in touch with the streets department and will encourage them to come up with a safe solution.
This portion of the Westbank Greenway project is due to be completed by the end of September.
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