New Yield Signs at MLK Crosswalk

Today the Streets Department put up "Yield to Pedestrians Within Crosswalk" signs at MLK Drive. Two on the inbound side and one on the outbound side. They promise to install a second outbound sign in the near future.






























Photos: Russell Meddin

This is just a first step toward a safer MLK Dr and there is much more to be done.

In the past few days the Bicycle Coalition launched its Take Back the Drive Campaign. In addition the Mayor's Bicycle Ambassadors will be at the crosswalk location every Thursday afternoon in the month of June.

You can help support the campaign by buying a Take Back the Drive T-Shirt on Cafe Press

Bike to the Ballpark - Phillies Win But Bikes Need an Exit Strategy

A good time was had by all as the light intermittent rain stopped and most of the game was dry. The Phillies beat the Washington Nationals 5 to 4.



Bike to the Ballpark on Flickr

Exiting the ballpark was the biggest challenge. With everyone leaving at once it is impossible to take the lane. The 10th St exit essentially becomes one way with nearly all the traffic turning right onto Packer Avenue. We decided to use the left inbound shoulder and then used the crosswalks to continue on the right side of S 10th.


View Larger Map

Continuing north on 10th we made a left on Oregon, this was a mistake as the bike lane is a double parking nightmare from 10th to 13th due to post game bar patrons. Once we got on 13th it was a very quiet and easy bike ride back to Center City.

Also as a side note the bike lane on 10th st. was eliminated from Bigler St to Packer Ave with restriping, we need to ask the Streets Department why that decision was made.



Does anyone have an exit strategy when they leave CB Park? No doubt that this problem needs to be addressed in the Bike Ped Plan.

Ben Franklin Bridge Traffic Study Raises Questions

The Delaware River Port Authority is conducting a study to improve traffic flow on the Philadelphia side of the Ben Franklin Bridge, an area of Central Philadelphia already dominated by automobile traffic.



This underused parkland one of Old City's largest swaths of greenspace
would be covered under a "flyover ramp" that would directly connect the bridge deck to I-676.



The flyover ramp is a long term option. Many of the short term changes involve lane configuratons and signal timing adjustments that may have a neutral or slightly negative impact on bikes and pedestrians.

However the fact that this study doesn't seize the opportunity to improve non-motorized and transit access to the bridge shows that Authority is still not thinking outside the box or even beginning to accept the concept of complete streets.

A perfect example is the the chaos on 6th St where bikes and horse carriages share a bike lane that crosses ramps with motorists too eager to get out of town.



Learn more about the project here.

Governor Rendell Finally Announces Safe Routes To School Winners

It's a long time coming but the Governor finally announced the Safe Routes to School funding winners. The announcement was combined with the much larger Pennsylvania Community Transportation Initiative, or PCTI. Which is intended to fund planning and construction projects that demonstrate creative and efficient ways of addressing various transportation challenges through strong local partnerships and with careful consideration of community goals.funded

GREATER PHILADELPHIA ($18.5 million)
PCTI funding — $14,293,827
Safe Routes to School funding — $4,224,462

Bucks County PCTI
• Newtown Borough will receive $30,000 to create and implement design standards that encourage new developments to incorporate features to make walking and bicycling more viable modes of transportation.
• Chalfont Borough will receive $463,405 to install pedestrian safety improvements with connections to an elementary and middle school, the community and transit.

Bucks County Safe Routes to School
• Chalfont Borough will receive $719,734 to install crosswalks, curbing, and sidewalks along Route 202, spanning two municipalities and benefiting one elementary school and one middle school.

Chester County PCTI
• New Garden Township will receive $200,000 to study the Baltimore Pike and Newark Road corridors to develop a sound traffic improvement and access management plan in preparation for future development pressures along the corridor.
• Borough of South Coatesville will receive $50,000 to study the feasibility of a multi-use trail along Brandywine Creek, First Avenue and Modena Road.
• West Bradford Township will receive $2,000,000 to install pedestrian and roadside improvements to create a walkable, mixed-use community corridor.

Chester and Montgomery counties PCTI
• Montgomery County will receive $1,775,000 to reduce the width of Hanover Street vehicle lanes in Pottstown and North Coventry Township in order to have room to install bike lanes, parking, and a multi-use trail from River Road (South Pottstown) to High Street.

Delaware County PCTI
• Borough of Millbourne will receive $35,000 to plan for multi-modal transportation improvements near the Millbourne train station.

Delaware County Safe Routes to School
• The Borough of Swarthmore will receive $662,270 for safety and accessibility upgrades to the Princeton Avenue underpass, the main pedestrian link between the southern portion of the borough and the local elementary school.
• Nether Providence Township will receive $304,500 to install sidewalk and curbing along the north side of Wallingford Avenue, which will create a safer route to Wallingford Elementary School.
• Upper Darby Township will receive $242,893 to construct sidewalks, curb cuts, and other improvements to provide a safer route leading to the Aronimink Elementary School on Bond Avenue.

Montgomery County PCTI
• Abington Township will receive $275,000 to plan for transit-oriented development at the Noble Train station.
• Lower Merion Township will receive $350,000 to construct bicycle and pedestrian improvements from Cynwyd station to the Cynwyd trail.
• Borough of Lansdale will receive $3,500,000 to improve traffic circulation within the Borough by rehabilitating segments of Wood and Vine Streets.
• Cheltenham Township will receive $1,400,000 to construct traffic calming and pedestrian improvements to provide intermodal connectivity in a high density area.

Montgomery County Safe Routes to School
• The Borough of Pottstown will receive $224,649 for sidewalk rehabilitation, updated and new signage, and pavement markings.
• Upper Gwynedd Township will receive $1,069,977 to install curbing, sidewalk and traffic calming measures within a half mile radius of the St. Rose of Lima and North Wales Elementary Schools on West Prospect, Washington, Second, Swarley, Summit, Pennsylvania, Fairfield, Highland and Main Streets.

Philadelphia PCTI
• City of Philadelphia will receive $2,480,000 to reconstruct sidewalks and provide pedestrian enhancements and lighting along 10th and Berks Streets past the Temple Regional Rail station to the corner of Germantown Avenue.
• City of Philadelphia will receive $1,735,422 to improve pedestrian safety and provide traffic calming in the Chinatown neighborhood along and around Vine Street between 9th and 11th Streets.

Philadelphia Safe Routes to School
• The School District of Philadelphia will receive $1,000,439 to improve walking routes in the 37 District K-8 schools to increase safety for students who walk or bike to school.
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This is great news for the region

Bike to the Ballpark on Friday

Yes we are sold out, but that shouldn't stop you from buying your own tickets, joining us for the bike ride and enjoying valet bike parking at Citizens Bank Park.

We'll be meeting at Dilworth Plaza at City Hall on Friday Afternoon at 6:00 PM. If you are a new rider you can meet our Bicycle Ambassadors at 5:45PM at the south end of the Schuylkill River Trail at Locust Street. They will teach a short class on the rules of the road and provide basic safety tips for riding on the road and in a group. Ambassadors will also lead the return trip after the game.

Speaking of new riders on Saturday at 10AM the Philadelphia Mountain Bike Association (PMBA) will be holding a beginner riders clinic and ride in Wissahickon Park. Details are available here.

Alex Doty on "Radio Times" on Friday

On Friday May 29th BCGP Executive Director will be a guest in the second (11am) hour of Radio Times with Marty Moss-Coane.

Here is the Teaser for Friday's show:

Hour Two
How is Philadelphia becoming a more bicycle- friendly community? And where can a bike take you physically and emotionally? We talk to ALEX DOTY, Executive Director of The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia about the City of Philadelphia’s plans to make more parking available to commuters and how the Coalition’s bicycle ambassadors are helping raise safety and civility awareness. And DAVID SYLVESTER, adventure bicyclist, will tell us how his passion of people and the road has taken him across four Continental crossings of Asia, Africa and the United States.

The Bike Wins Again

The Medal Stand
Originally uploaded by Philly Bike Coalition

This was not just another commuter race. This year BCGP and the Bicycle Ambassadors put some snap into this event on a foggy morning.

We also took the race to the people by moving the finish line to the SW corner of 15th and Market. For the fourth year in a row the bicyclist took first place. Travelling from 29th and Fairmount in 12 minutes and 21 seconds. About one minute later the ZipCar arrived (with a special free parking spot). As is the past the SEPTA bus rider lagged behind with a significant 10 minute gap.

Thanks to everyone who helped make this fun event a reality. Especially to Fuji Bikes President Pat Cunnane and Somerdale Track Coach Jim Mohan for operating the giant track clock.

Register for 2009 TD Bank Bike Philly Event!

Join us for the third annual TD Bank Bike Philly event September 13, 2009. Enjoy a morning of biking on Philadelphia streets without cars and meander through Old City and hidden corners of Fairmount Park! Bike Philly offers distances to suit cyclists of all skills levels and ages. Visit the TD Bank Bike Philly website for more information!

Bike Commuter Race Tomorrow (Wednesday) 8AM

The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia will be staging a race between three commuters: a bicyclist, a car driver and a transit rider. The race will test the theory that a bicyclist who commutes four miles or less in Philadelphia will generally arrive before, or within a few minutes of, other commuters during rush hour. To give the car every chance to win the race, the driver will be in a convertible sports car (provided by Zip Car).

The finish line will be at City Hall in Dilworth Plaza, the race begins at 8AM.

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Ambassadors Message: Yield to Pedestrians

In perhaps their first large scale education of motorists, the Bicycle Ambassadors along with BCGP Staff held up yield to pedestrian signs at the crosswalk where a father and son were critically injured when they were struck by a motorist.

Join the Bicycle Ambassadors this week as we educate motorists about the need to slow down and yield to pedestrians at the crosswalk. Come and hold a sign:
Tomorrow (Wed.) and Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 pm Thursday from 7:30 to 9:30 am.

This morning's event also resulted in several news stories:

Bicycle Coalition calls for action on MLK following last week's crash - Philadelphia Citypaper

Bicyclists Promote Safety On MLK Drive - CBS 3

Bicycle Advocates Campaign Against Unsafe Drivers on MLK Drive - KYW

Bike Group Pushes Safety-Fox News




The Bicycle Coalition's proposal to reduce the travel lanes on MLK Drive, BCGP found that the average speed along this stretch of road upstream from the Fish Ladder to be 50mph; 15 mph over the speed limit.

If you haven't already please send an email correspondence to Mayor Nutter to make MLK Drive safer for all users. More than 200 concerned citizens have done so already, but we need many more to make a serious impact.

Take Back the Drive!

On Thursday morning, a father and his 4-year-old son on a bicycle and "tag-along" were struck and critically injured by a car when crossing MLK (West River) Drive at the mid-block crosswalk below the Art Museum.


View Larger Map


This horrible crash is the latest example of the dangers of a beautiful park road that has been allowed to become a throughway. It is time to make MLK Drive safe for park users.

You can take action this week:

Join the Bicycle Ambassadors this week as we educate motorists about the need to slow down and yield to pedestrians at the crosswalk. Meet us at the pedestrian crossing on MLK Drive. Come and hold a sign:

* Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 to 9:30 am
* Wednesday and Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 pm

Send a letter to Mayor Nutter asking him to return MLK Drive to a park road and avoid another crash like the one that happened on Thursday.

To send a letter and to find out more, visit our new Take Back the Drive campaign page at http://www.bicyclecoalition.org/action/mlk.
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Wrap Up Of This Weeks Other Events

Here is what we did not get to cover this week:

Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby - Photos and Results
Ride of Silence had an excellent turnout with 300 to 400 riders - Photos
Bill introduced into City Council that if passed would permit bicycles on certain sidewalks (trail segments adjacent to roads) - 090444


Coming up next week
Commuter Race - Wednesday
Bike to the Ballpark/New Rider Night - Friday
Details of upcoming events on http://www.bicyclecoalition.org/events/bikemonth

Revolutionary Shuttle Will Offer Bus Service Within Valley Forge

This weekend the National Park Service will launch the "Revolutionary Shuttle" a free bus service that will allow visitors to travel to the far ends of the park without getting into their cars. Perhaps the users that will benefit most from the service are people who arrive at the park via the SEPTA 125 Bus.










Like many other National Park bus services the Revolutionary Shuttle will be equipped with bike racks. Additionally bike rentals are available at the Lower Welcome Center parking lot.

In addition to this weekend the service will run daily from May 30th through the end of August.

City Council Passes Bicycle Parking Bill

Starting January 1, 2010, the City's Zoning Code will require new developments (of certain size) to install bicycle parking spaces as part of its building permit. This is a terrific victory for sustainability and a significant advancement for making Philadelphia more bicycle friendly.

Bill No. 090190 passed unaminously today in City Council. The Bicycle Coalition thanks Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, Councilman James Kenny and Councilman Curtis Jones Jr. for introducing the measure and Councilwoman Brown for sheparding it through the Rules Committee. Special thanks also to Streets Department, L&I and City Planning Commission staff for developing the bill in partnership with the Bicycle Coalition.

So, depending on when projects like American Commerce Center and Philly Live! (the complex that will replace the Spectrum) pull their building permit, they will have to install bicycle parking.

The bill also requires that Department of Licenses and Inspections and Streets Department develop standards for bicycle parking spaces and defines three classes of bicycle spaces. A summary of the bill is here.

Father and Son Struck By Driver in SUV at MLK Crosswalk

A 4 year old boy is in Critical Condition at Children's Hospital after a man and a child on his tandem in the crosswalk at MLK Drive was struck by a driver in an SUV at the approach to the Spring Garden Street ramp.


















Photo - Breen Goodwin


From 6ABC -

PHILADELPHIA - May 21, 2009 (WPVI) -- Philadelphia Police are on the scene of an accident involving a man and his young son.

The accident occurred around 9:50 this morning on the inbound ramp to Martin Luther King Drive, just before the Benjamin Franklin Parkway merge.

A 29-year-old man and his 4-year-old son were riding their bike, crossing the street in the crosswalk. A vehicle approached, saw the two crossing and stopped. However, a second vehicle behind the first went around the stopped vehicle, hitting the father and son.

Read the rest of the story at 6ABC

----------------------------------------------------

The Bicycle Coalition has been very concerned about the road and crosswalk conditions on MLK Drive. We have noted in previous posts (here, here, here and here) that speeding on MLK and Kelly Drives present a danger to bicyclists and pedestrians. BCGP has been working with the Streets Department to add measures to the crossing area and we expect that improvements will begin in a few weeks. Specifically, they will be installing "Yield to pedestrian" signs and will be narrowing the outbound travel lane. They are also planning to install a next generation flashing pedestrian warning beacons at the crossing (the bidding and contract process is expected to take about a year).

However, the real problem is the need to reduce vehicular speeds on MLK Drive. Options include soft rumble strips before the crossing in both lanes, Driver Feedback Signs (Your Speed) on the Drive and Police enforcement of the speed limit.

We hope to work with the city to implement these measures.

Ben Franklin Bridge Assault Rattles Bridge Walkway Users

Tuesday's violent mugging of an off-duty Philadelphia Homicide Detective on the Ben Franklin Bridge walkway has touched some nerves and caught the brief attention of the Philadelphia Media.

Many of us are scratching our heads wondering how some thug was able to assault an off-duty police officer and then managed to escape Andy Dufresne style by to bicycling halfway down the bridge through the 3 foot wide cattle chute, walk down 3 flights of stairs and traverse a 200 foot long fenced in walkway to get to Camden. For all the sophisticated cameras going in place perhaps a few good old call boxes (like those going in at PATCO stations) would have allowed DRPA Police to stop this guy at the gate.

In Today's Daily News reporter Ronnie Polaneczky wrote a scathing article that questions the decisions made recently by DRPA. And brings back the old argument that perhaps the Authority's spending was a bit misguided:

This year, DRPA will spend $11 million on, among other expensive things, the President's House memorial near the Liberty Bell, a restaurant in Franklin Square, building demolition in Camden and the Lights of Liberty show.

All worthy endeavors. But no more worthy than the security measures that Anastasi and the nondriving constituents he represents wish were in place, right now, for walkway commuters on the Ben Franklin Bridge.

As Matthew Anastasi states in the article the Bicycle Coalition has been advocating security cameras on the walkway to improve security which along with a remotely operated gate would allow 24 Hour Access.

UPDATE - A sketch of the Suspect has been released:

Sketch of Suspect who was riding a powder blue bicycle with very thin tires.

Description:
Age: 25-30 YRS
Race: White or Hispanic
Sex: Male
Weight:
Height: 5'5" to 5'7" -/+
Complexion: Olive
Build: Stocky
Hair: Brown curly Unkept

Tonight's Ride of Silence

Photos from last night's ride are here.

The Ride of Silence aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for those who have been killed or injured. There are Rides of Silence being conducted today around the world.

Philadelphia's Ride of Silence starts at the Art Museum steps at 6:45 pm for a seven-mile, police-escorted ride through Center City. The Ride Of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph and remain silent during the ride. There is no brochure, no sponsors, no registration fees and no t-shirt.

For more information, contact volunteer ride coordinators John Siemiarowski tandemdad@comcast.net or Ray Scheinfeld erayben@bellatalantic.net.

Other Ride of Silence Events Today
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
Delaware

Pre-Registration for Bike Freedom Valley Closes Soon!

What: This is a fully supported non-competitive bike ride. You can choose trail rides of 8, 22 and 44 miles, or ride on shared roads for 35, 50 or 60+ miles. The distances of 44 miles and above go to the Wayne's Wood area of Valley Forge National Historic Park.

When: Sunday, June 21, 2009

Where: 1 Boathouse Row is at the intersections of Sedgely and Kelly Drives behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Free parking is available on street on Sedgely Dr. and Lemon Hill Dr.

For more information about this ride, go to the event page on the Bicycle Coalition website.

To register online, visit signmeup.com

Let's Talk About Street Murals For Philly

Philadelphia's award winning Mural Arts Program should look at what Ocean City (NJ) just did. A compass was painted at an intersection on Haven Avenue - the east coast's first bicycle boulevard. Streetfilms also recorded a similar street painting project done in Brooklyn. Imagine our collection of outdoor artwork complemented by decorative street murals.



Both projects were inspired by Sunnyside Piazza - a flower painted at an intersection in Portland Oregon in 2001. It's a great example of neighbors taking back their street.

Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby

2009 Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby (38)
Originally uploaded by Philly Bike Coalition

Who had the best time yesterday on May 16, 2009? Had to be the visitors and participants of this year's Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby. Best parade I've been to, maybe ever. Entrants made human powered "sculptures" out of bicycle parts. They processed on a 3 mile route for an hour through the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, and finished the Derby by bicycling through a mud pit. A true testament to having fun on a bicycle. A crew from Streetsfilm were there filming it all. Can't wait to see that one.

Bike to Work Day News Reports

The Bike to Work Day ride with Mayor Nutter from the Art Museum to City Hall was a huge success this morning with more than 100 participants. The Mayor along with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown helped us introduce the Philadelphia Bicycle Ambassadors.

CBS 3 Video Report

KYW News Report



Bike to Work Pennsylvania Group On Flickr

Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby Details

WHEN: The Derby Parade leaves at 12:30pm, the Arts Fest is from 12-5pm with bands and vendors all day. The award ceremony will be held between 3:30 and 4pm at the Arts Fest. If you are a competitor, you must be checked in by 11:30am.

9:30-11:30am KKSD Participant Check-in
12:00 Trenton Ave Arts Fest starts

12:30 KKSD Parade leaves the Arts Fest (see ROUTE)

1:30-2:00 KKSD parade returns to fest, through the MUDPIT
2:00-3:15 People vote for their favorite sculpture
3:30-4:00 pm- Awards announced at the Arts Fest Stage
5:00 Arts Fest and KKSD are over, see you next year!

WHERE: The Kinetic Sculpture Derby is at the Trenton Avenue Arts Festival on the 2000-2300 blocks of Trenton Avenue in the Kensington Neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA, USA, Planet Earth. The Parade leaves from Trenton and Dauphin St, see map below.


View KKSD09 in a larger map

There will be FREE VALET BIKE PARKING by Neighborhood Bike Works all day! So ride your bike!

Delaware County Adopts Bicycle Plan

The Philadelphia Bulletin reports that on Tuesday the Delaware County Council has adopted the long awaited Bicycle Plan and will appoint a Bicycling Committee to oversee implementation of the plan.

If you are in Media tomorrow morning don't forget that the county Bike to Work Day celebration will take place at the corner of Olive and Front Streets on May 15th at 8 a.m.

Do you remember when Bike to Work Day was a strictly symbolic event? That does not appear to be the case anymore. Locally and nationally government officials are rolling out bicycle programs in and around Bike Month. Take for example the State of Delaware's Complete Streets Executive Order at the Delaware Bike Summit and of course tomorrow Mayor Nutter along with Councilwoman Reynolds Brown will introduce Philadelphia's Bicycle Ambassadors who will make their public debut.

Ride with the Mayor on Friday Morning

Join us at the steps of the Art Museum Tomorrow at 8:30 AM for our Annual Bike to Work Day ride with the Mayor while there is a slight chance of showers there is no chance that it will match 2008's deluge.

The Police protected ride will end at Dilworth Plaza shortly after 9AM with refreshments and a press conference at which Mayor Nutter and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown will announce the launch of the Bicycle Ambassador program.

New Bike Racks at the Philadelphia Zoo

Great News! you no longer have to lock your bike to a sign post or fence at the Philadelphia Zoo. More than 20 post and ring racks have been installed. The main bank shown here is at the north end of the parking area.

Zipcar Celebrates Bike to Work Day

Zipcar salutes city cyclists and bike commuters with a special Bike to Work Day celebration. Stop by their offices at 12th and Locust Street on Friday, May 15 from 8am-6pm for an all day party featuring the Bicycle Ambassadors, free refreshments, bike safety checks, special give-a-ways and more!  Make your other bike a Zipcar with special rates for Bicycle Coalition Members. Contact Beth at bmresta@zipcar.com for more. 

Call For Bike Race Volunteers!

PHILLY RACE IS ON AND CALLING FOR VOLUNTEERS!

 

Volunteer Corps Gearing Up for 25^th Running of

TD Bank Philadelphia International Cycling Championship

 

 

AUDUBON, Pa. (May 5, 2009) – With the commitment of two new sponsors last week – SugarHouse and Foxwoods casinos – and growing public support of the “Embrace the Race” campaign, organizers of the TD Bank Philadelphia International Cycling Championship are working in overdrive to bring a sensational race-day experience to the City for the event’s 25^th year. 

 

But they can’t do it without you!  Hundreds of volunteers are needed for race day, Sunday, June 7, 2009, in the following areas:  course marshals (over 300 needed), stage crew, foreign language interpreters, hospitality, marketing and public relations, and driver support.

 “Whether you’re a cyclist yourself or someone who wants to see how a world-class sporting event unfolds on the city streets of Philadelphia, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to be a part of the 25^th running of cycling’s biggest single-day professional race,” said Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of Pro Cycling Tour and co-founder of the Philly race.  “This is unlike any other event in the country, and volunteering is an incredible way to experience it,” he said.  “Show off your civic pride, and help us host a safe and memorable race day for everyone!”

The volunteer corps has developed quite a following over the event’s 25-year history.  People return year after year for duty, with many traveling to Philadelphia from across the country just to be a part of the festivities.

For more information on how you can become a Philly race volunteer, including requirements and sign-up procedures, go to www.procyclingtour.com -- click here for a description of the positions and application link,  or go directly to sign up at this link:  http://www.procyclingtour.info/VolForm.aspx

To learn more about the Embrace the Race campaign and how you and other cycling fans can help organizers finish off the fundraising gap through VIP ticket purchases and other donations, go to www.procyclingtour.com/embracetherace.

For more information on the Pro Cycling Tour or the TD Bank Philadelphia International Cycling Championship, visit www.procyclingtour.com

Bike Parking Bill Clears Rules Committee

This morning, City Council’s Rules Committee passed Bill No. 090190 unanimously and referred it to the full Council for a reading tomorrow. A vote is expected on the bill next Thursday.

The Bicycle Coalition extends its thanks to everyone who made this zoning code amendment possible, and for demonstrating support via letters, email, and presence at the meeting. Special thanks to Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown for introducing and sheparding the bill and City Planning Commission, Streets Department, Dept. of Licences and Inspections and the Office of Transportation and Utilities staff for developing the bill.

________________________

NewsRelease

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Alex Doty, Executive Director
Phone: (215) 242-9253
Mobile: (215) 239-4749 (mobile)
Email: alex@bicyclecoalition.org
Or
Sarah Clark Stuart, Advocate
215-546-1222 (mobile)
scspa@comcast.net

Key Council Committee Passes Green Zoning Code Amendment
New Construction Projects Will Be Required to Install Bicycle Racks

May 13, 2009 Philadelphia, PA - The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia applauds Philadelphia’s City Council Rules Committee for passing an important piece of green legislation that will make the city more sustainable.

"There is a bicycle parking shortage in Philadelphia," said Sarah Clark Stuart, an advocate for the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, “and this zoning code amendment will help remedy that shortage by requiring that future buildings and parking lots install adequate numbers of safe and secure bicycle racks.”

"Buildings with well designed and sufficient bicycle parking capacity send an important signal that green modes of transportation are valued and encouraged," says Ms. Stuart. "Additionally, this bill promotes sustainability by providing an incentive to developers to create sheltered bike racks in exchange for reducing the number of required auto parking spaces, thus providing a stormwater benefit."

The bill, introduced by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, Councilman James Kenny and Councilman Curtis Jones Jr., was developed by the Nutter Administration’s City Planning Commission, Streets Department, Department of License and Inspections, and the Office of Transportation and Utilities in conjunction with the Bicycle Coalition through the Pedestrian/Bicycle Plan Steering Committee."

In order for Philadelphia to become the greenest city in America, it needs to double the number of people who bike to work" said Alex Doty, Executive Director of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. "An essential step toward reaching that goal is for Philadelphia’s zoning code to ensure the installation of top quality bicycle racks in sufficient numbers. When enacted, this bill guarantees that bike parking will no longer be an afterthought, but a key feature of Philadelphia’s architectural landscape.”

Bike Parking Bill Needs Support at Tommorrow's Hearing!

If you live or work in a building that doesn’t provide bicycle parking, you know how hard it is to convince property managers to install racks. The lack of racks in buildings is a deterrent to many people who would otherwise bike to work. Today, a building can be certified as a LEED building and still offer inadequate or insufficient racks. Requiring bike racks to be installed when a new development is constructed is the most cost efficient way to improve safety and security for bicycle parking.



Comcast Center - Bike Racks in snow 1
Originally uploaded by timothyday

On Wednesday, May 13th at 10am (Room 400), the City Council Rules Committee will consider a bicycle parking bill to amend the zoning code to require certain construction projects to install bicycle racks. This legislation was developed by the Nutter Administration in partnership with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, through the Pedestrian/Bicycle Plan Steering Committee. It was introduced by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, Councilman James Kenny and Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr. The bill is similar to those enacted by other peer cities, such as Washington DC, Chicago, Ill. and New York City.



If you want to testify in support of the bill, please contact Jason Lewis (jason.lewis@phila.gov ) in Councilwoman Reynolds Brown's office. Even if you would rather not testify, your presence at the hearing will be enormously helpful to show City Council members that this bill is supported by the public. Please come to the hearing to demonstrate public support for this measure.



Please pass on this post to any friends of colleagues who might be interested in coming to the hearing. For more information, contact:Sarah Clark Stuart Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia 215-546-1222 scspa@comcast.net

Collingswood Streets Is the Latest Local Bike Ped Advocacy Project

Local bike and pedestrian advocacy groups have been gaining significant ground in NJ in the past year or so and the debut of Collingswood Streets on the Livable Streets Network is the first to take hold in South Jersey. Collingswood has already started up their own bike sharing program and are looking at making improvements to their community.

Hoboken, Morristown, Montclair, and West Windsor and most recently the Bergen County based New Jersey Bicycle Coalition started up with a first rate website.

If you are a Collingswood Resident and interested in joining Collingswood Streets visit their web page or send a message to Stella Bonaparte.

Welcome to Bike Week

Check our Calendar for bike week events!

What Does The Parking Crackdown Mean For Bicyclists?

The Parking Authority and the Police Department along with the Department of Transportation and Utilities have already begun their parking reform operations with officers now at key intersections during rush hour and a dedicated tow truck ready to go.

So what does that mean for bicyclists?

Civility has been a priority of Deputy Mayor Cutler and bicyclists violating red lights, riding on sidewalks and abandoned bicycles have all been mentioned as problems that need to be addressed. It's not clear if there will be a crackdown on bicyclists but I wouldn't disobey the police directing traffic. I suspect that the city will try to encourage bicyclists to do the right thing before any type of crackdown. In Mid May Philadelphia's Bicycle Ambassadors will be hitting the streets and they will be tasked with educating bicyclists and motorists to safely co-exist.

The latest press release does suggest that there will be more bike parking coming. The rearrangement of loading zones and talks about bicycle, scooter and motorcycle suggest that there will be an opportunity for on-street bike corrals. The city is also conducting a study on how to replace lost bike parking when the lollipop meters are replaced with the whole block smart meters.

And that study cannot conclude soon enough-to date meter poles have not been replaced. 3rd St between Market and Arch is especially hard hit, although a couple of BCGP sponsored Adopt A Racks were installed it is not meeting the current demand- with many bikes tied to whatever street sign pole is available.

Delaware Jumps Into Bicycle Friendly States Top 10

The League of American Bicyclists have published their rankings of Bicycle Friendly States for 2009. The big news is that Delaware jumped from from 31st to 9th. The state recently held a State Bike Summit and a complete streets Executive Order from the Governor.

New Jersey stayed in the top 10 slipping to 10th from 9th and Pennsylvania dropped from 38th to 4oth.

What makes a Bicycle Friendly State? States are evaluated based on this questionnaire.

Greenway Summit Concludes With A Bike RIde With The Mayor

East Coast Greenway Bike Ride with Mayor Nutter (2)
Originally uploaded by Philly Bike Coalition

The East Coast Greenway Pennsylvania Summit was held at the Hub at the Cira Center today with good presentations from Jim Sayer of Adventure Cycling and Jon Orcutt New York City's DOT Policy Advisor with concluding remarks from Mike Deberardinis Director of the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Deptartment

The event concluded with Mayor's bike ride in Schuylkill River Park. He also got to meet our new Bicycle Ambassadors.

Ben Franklin Bridge Extends Hours For Bike Week

One week after extending the walkway hours to 9Pm through until May 1 the Delaware River Port Authority will be open the walkway to 11PM for May 11 - 15th only for Bike Week.

There are more evening events on the Camden side this year with three Riversharks games (Tu,WE,TH) and the Q102 - Black Eyed Peas concert at the Susquehanna Bank Center on Friday.

Now can we get some decent bike parking at those events?

WalkBikeBerks Posting on the PA Bike Summit

By Michele Barrett President WalkBikeBerks and Executive Director PA Walks and Bikes:

Thank you so much for your support of bicycling in Pennsylvania. Our first PA Bike Summit was a resounding success. Perhaps your local news station or newspaper covered the story? If so please send a copy or link to me so that we can keep a record of the coverage from across the state. I'll make sure to post the stories on PA Walks & Bikes Livable Communities site. Berks County's coverage is provided here: Bicyclists Push To Make Their Riding In PA Safer.

More news coverage can be found here:

abc 27 News on demand
Some folks are already sending in pictures of the day. To be sure we keep them organized in one place for everyone to see and share, please add your pictures to our Flickr Group. Anyone can upload photos to this group: http://www.flickr.com/groups/pabikesummit/.

The single most important action that you can take now is to contact your legislator and encourage them to support HB1110 or SB776 (Safe Passing Legislation). And HB1109, a harassment bill meant to protect cyclists from "bullies" on the roadways. An email, phone call or brief letter will only take a moment of your time, but is vitally important to the success of these laws.

Please also be sure to ask your legislator to push for the release of the more than $21 Million dollars in Federal Safe Routes to School Funding so that children can safely walk or bicycle to school.
Contact Your Legislator

If you were able to meet with your State Representatives or Senators yesterday, please do complete a Feedback Form and return it to PA Walks & Bikes at PO Box 6795, Wyomissing PA 19610. The information you provide to us will enable us to continue the work that we started yesterday. Thank you so much for all that you have done and will continue to do to improve bicycling in PA.

Philadelphia City Council Hears Bike Parking Bill

Philadelphia is on the verge of taking another important step towards sustainability.

Next Wednesday, May 13th at 10am (Room 400), the City Council Rules Committee will consider a bicycle parking bill to amend the zoning code to require certain construction projects to install bicycle racks.

If you live or work in a building that doesn’t provide bicycle parking, you know how hard it is to convince property managers to install racks. And the lack of racks in buildings is a deterrent to many people who would otherwise bike to work. Requiring bike racks to be installed when a new development is constructed is the most cost efficient way to improve safety and security for bicycle parking.

This legislation was developed by the Nutter Administration in partnership with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, through the Pedestrian/Bicycle Plan Steering Committee. It was introduced by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, Councilman James Kenny and Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr. The bill is similar to those enacted by other peer cities, such as Washington DC, Chicago, Ill. and New York City, which just passed similar legislation on April 22, 2009. The bill will require 4 types of “uses” (non-residential, multiple family dwellings, public parking lots and low occupancy facilities) to provide bike parking spaces. More details about the bill are in a factsheet on the BCGP website.

If you want to testify in support of the bill, please contact Jason Lewis (jason.lewis@phila.gov ) in Councilwoman Reynolds Brown's office. Even if you would rather not testify, your presence at the hearing will be enormously helpful to show City Council members that this bill is supported by the public. Please come to the hearing to demonstrate public support for this measure.

This legislation was prompted by a Bicycle Coalition May 2008 report on Philadelphia's bike parking shortage, which recommended this type of legislation be adopted. You can see many photos of good, bad and no bicycle parking in Philadelphia taken by bicyclists during 2008.

Please pass on this post to any friends of colleagues who might be interested in coming to the hearing.

For more information, contact:
Sarah Clark Stuart
Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia
215-546-1222
scspa@comcast.net

Bike Summit at Capitol Steps

WalkBikeBerks President Michele Barrett

Haverford Go By Bike Day

The City is not the only place hosting bike month events:

Residents of Delaware Co. are invited to visit Haverford College on the morning of May 13 to help celebrate "Go by Bike" Day. Staff & faculty are encouraged to ride their bike to work, and students are encouraged to use their bikes to run errands, etc. We will gather on the front steps of the Dining Center at 8:30A to celebrate going by bike. Be there for snacks, free bike safety checks and free giveaways.

Bike Summit at Capitol Steps

WalkBikeBerks President Michele Barrett

Bike Summit Press Conference

More Photos on our Flickr PA Bike Summit Group

First Wednesdays are Volunteer Nights at the BCGP

This Wednesday May 6th marks the revival of Volunteer Night. Join other friendly cyclists to help us reach our goal to make the Philadelphia region a bicycle friendly place. Wednesday's session will focus on training for volunteers who wish to help us staff the BCGP table at special events.

Volunteer Night
First Wednesday of the Month 6:30
BCGP Offices
100 S Broad St, Suite 1355
(entrance between Chestnut and Sansom)
Philadelphia PA
Pizza and Refreshments will be available

Did you know that several BCGP board and staff members started as volunteer night regulars (including this author) so who knows, this is a great opportunity to get into the loop.

Let's Get Bike Access on Amtrak

Tomorrow our new statewide organization PA Walks and Bikes will be hosting the first Pennsylvania Bike Summit in Harrisburg. Harrisburg is one of the few lucky state capitals that is served by regular scheduled almost hourly train service a mere 4 blocks from the Capitol steps. But just about all of the attendees who wish to participate in the AM bike ride will be driving because Amtrak only allows folding bicycles on trains.

Photo Uploaded by Rich_C_W on Flickr



Amtrak Surfliner bicycle rack
Originally uploaded by Rich_C_W

Amtrak and just about any other non-bike friendly public carrier often come up with the same excuse for not carrying bicycles-not enough room on our vehicles. So perhaps our proposal should address those concerns:

1 - Perform an independent study on how to accommodate bicycles on existing equipment
2 - Require that all new or refurbished passenger and baggage cars are bike accessible.
3 - Require covered bicycle parking at all Amtrak Stations (even if it is a single rack under an overhang.)
4 - Offer bike rentals (or bike sharing) at the busiest stations.
5- Ask Congress to include a small funding set aside specifically for Amtrak bike access improvements.

Previous bike access negotiations with LAB, the East Coast Greenway Alliance and the State of Vermont resulted in temporary agreements, Eventually Amtrak pulled the plug on the deals.

Amtrak is nearly alone with its no standard bikes policy, only two commuter rail systems in North America VRE and MARC (both systems ironically serving Washington D.C) have outright bans on bicycles.

If Congress does not force the hand of Amtrak by tying funding to bike access in the next transportation bill then we as bicyclists should start to think about our legal options.

Request the Bicycle Ambassadors Today!

The Bicycle Ambassadors are only two weeks away from the official program launch. Mayor Nutter will join the Bicycle Ambassadors for National Bike to Work Day on May 15th with a ride into the City and a press conference to follow.

The Ambassadors are currently accepting event requests for May 18th through mid-September for the Center City, University City and Fairmount Park neighborhoods of Philadelphia. Check out the website for additional information or print out the event request form. The Ambassadors are a free community resource.

Most commonly requested Ambassador Events:

• Brown Bag Lunches for companies and local organizations
• “Basics of Bike Commuting” or “Fix-A-Flat” presentations
• Attendance at local events (including farmers’ markets, festivals & fundraisers)
• Attendance at community and corporate Heath & Transportation Fairs
• Attendance at events held at places of worship & community centers
• If you are not sure…contact us!

For more information or questions please contact Breen Goodwin.

PA Walks & Bikes announces First PA Bike Summit

Press Release: PA Walks & Bikes announces First PA Bike Summit

In cooperation with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, Bike Pittsburgh, WalkBikeBerks, Lebanon Valley Bicycle Club. Special Thanks to Harrisburg Bicycle Club members.

Harrisburg, PA, May 5, 2009: Bike to the Capitol

When:

Tuesday, May 5, 2009
8:30 AM: Assemble At Farm Show Building
9:00 AM: Ride to Capitol

No Bike? No Problem! Join us to support healthy communities and active living.
10:00 AM: Rally at Capitol (Third & State Streets)


Why:
To Promote Bike Month and Support Bicycle Safety Legislation

Contact:

610.779.9702 or sign up online at http://www.pawalksbikes.org/

Join hundreds of cyclists from across Pennsylvania for the first statewide bicycle rally. Cyclists from areas such as Williamsport, Birdsboro, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Reading, Lebanon, Harrisburg, and State College will join guest speakers Representative Dave Kessler, Representative Ron Miller, Senator Michael O'Pake, Senator Mike Folmer, Secretary of Community and Economic Development George E. Cornelius, Sharon Brumbaugh, Special Assistant to the Secretary of Education, Brenda Barrett, Director of DCNR's Bureau of Recreation & Conservation, Tom Sexton, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy's Northeast Regional Office Director, Representative Rick Geist, and Represenative Joseph F. Markosek to promote active transportation and recreation in Pennsylvania.

Your help is needed to make a difference for bicycling in Pennsylvania. Cyclists will assemble and ride in Harrisburg May 5th, 2009 to demonstrate bicyclists' interest and concern from all sections of the state. Recreational, on-road, and commuter cyclists will unite to ride and speak together for bicycling in PA. The Summit will provide an opportunity to increase public awareness of the many benefits of bicycling, to promote bicycle safety, and to encourage bike riding – we encourage you to participants to speak to elected officials about Safe Routes to School and other programs that can benefit communities across PA.

For more than a century, the bicycle has been an important part of the lives of many Americans, and today residents of all ages and abilities throughout our great Commonwealth engage in bicycling for transportation, recreation, fitness and fun. Bicycling is the most efficient form of transportation and offers independent mobility for many Pennsylvanians traveling between work, school, and home; moreover the use of bicycles benefits everyone by easing traffic congestion, reducing air pollution, increasing PA tourism, and saving highway construction dollars.

Join PA Legislators and Executive Officers as they support Bike Month. At 10:00 AM participants will gather on the Capitol Stairs to hear Representative Dave Kessler lead the event with a reading of PA Bike Month House Resolution. This event is promoted by PA Walks & Bikes, a new statewide advocacy organization whose mission is creating healthy, sustainable communities across Pennsylvania by making bicycling and walking safer, more convenient and more enjoyable.

Attendees will meet with legislators throughout the day to gain more support for pro-cyclist legislation, HB1110 introduced by Representative Ron Miller and SB776 Introduced by Senator Mike Folmer. -- important legislation that will require motorists to provide a safe passing distance for more vulnerable road users such as bicyclists. Everyone is encouraged to share why bicycling is important to them.

PA residents who are not able to attend the Summit can still help bring bicycling issues to the forefront in Pennsylvania. PA Walks & Bikes encourages everyone in PA to contact representatives and senators to schedule appointments in their district offices. The event will be held rain or shine. We encourage you to register at http://www.pawalksbikes.org/ today so we can better prepare for you.

Getting There:
Driving Directions to the Farm Show Complex

AMTRAK train departs 30th St Station at 7:25AM and arrives in Harrisburg at 9AM.
($23 one way)



View 2009 PA Bike Summit in a larger map