Greater Philadelphia Bicycle News

Philadelphia Cycling Committee - Special Meeting on 10th Street Feb. 23rd

2012-02-17T17:03:00.003-05:00

John Chin, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation will be in to answer questions about the future of the bike lane on 10th Street at the Philadelphia City Cycling Committee on Thursday February 23rd (Note the changed date). The meeting begins at 6:30 at the Bicycle Coalition Education office 1500 Walnut St, Suite 303, Philadelphia.

The 10th Street bike lane has met opposition in the Chinatown Neighborhood.

Refreshments and a light fare will be available at 6PM.

An Update On The Slow-Moving Trainwrecks That Are The Federal Transportation Bills

2012-02-17T13:22:00.002-05:00

We have urged you, our membership and readership, to contact your Congressmen the past few weeks and urge them not to gut biking and walking funding from federal transportation bills. Thank you if you made a phone call or sent a letter. Here is an update on the status of transportation legislation in Washington DC.

You can stop reading now if you want. This sums it up.

The Senate (cows on the tracks)
On the Senate side, Sen. Barbara Boxer is pessimistic about her two-year bill called Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP 21) after the bill was attacked by a swarm of unrelated amendments.

The House (the train was 8 hour late, ended up in the wrong city, all the passengers got motion sickness, and then the train fell into a river)
Although we didn't succeed in putting biking and walking back into the House Bill, our opposition to the bill has found some unlikely bedfellows. Not only do biking and walking proponents oppose the House bill, so does the Tea Party, Club for Growth, and several Chicagoland Republican Congressmen.

Philadelphia Police May Not Respond To Calls Of A Bike-Car Crash

2012-02-16T14:51:00.000-05:00

Occasionally cyclists involved in bike-car crashes reach out to us for resources, information, or just to vent. On Monday a local cyclist contacted us after being involved in a hit-and-run crash with a Philadelphia taxi. Fortunately he was not seriously hurt. A witness grabbed the taxi's license plate and called the police. The victim's experience, however, is a familiar one:

"...since no police officers arrived on the scene and since I was unable to flag down an officer I reported to the precinct office's behind Whole Foods. The officer on duty gave me a PA Driver's Accident Report which I am to fill out and send in to Harrisburg. After it is filed in Harrisburg I have to pay to get an official copy of the incident report which I can then take into the precinct office and file a complaint regarding the taxi driver leaving the scene."

"This is all very frustrating primarily because if a police officer had shown up we could have directed them to the taxi almost immediately, however now it will be days if not longer before any kind of complaint can even be made."

Walnut Street Bridge Bike Lane Closed For New Construction

2012-02-15T13:51:00.000-05:00

Work begins today on the Walnut Street Bridge Gateway Project. This project is the most significant change since the opening of the "modern" Walnut St Bridge in 1990. The bike lane is closed, and is expected to be closed for the duration of construction (until August or September).

BCGP's proposed configuration of the intersection of Walnut St. and Schuylkill Ave. This is not the final concept drawing but some of our suggested changes made it to final design.

During the construction period the bike lane on Walnut Street will be closed. The current timeline forecasts the completion of the project and reopening of the bike lane in August or September. Walnut St will remain open to vehicular traffic including bicycles. The streets department has installed detour signage guiding bicyclists to the South Street Bridge.

Ben Franklin Bridge Walkway Salted and Open

2012-02-13T10:49:00.000-05:00

A tip of the helmet is due to the Delaware River Port Authority. In snowfalls past, DRPA has been slow to reopen the Ben Franklin Bridge walkway. This time, they've done an excellent job opening the walkway for today's rush hour.

Bridge crews put a thorough coating of road salt on the walkway, with more in the normally icier spots at the Bridge anchorages.

Kickoff Meetings For Delco Open Space, Recreation, & Greenway Plan Greenway and Open Space Plan

2012-02-11T11:24:00.000-05:00

The Delaware County Planning Department is working on a County Open Space, Recreation and Greenway Plan. The Department will host two meetings on February 23rd to kickoff the public involvement component of the plan.

FREE Walkability Audits for Schools in PA

2012-02-10T10:59:00.003-05:00

The Pennsylvania Safe Routes to School Resource Center has free Walkability Audits available to schools in PA. This key planning tool provides schools with the technical assistance necessary to assess walking and biking conditions along routes to school and create a plan for improving them. The walkability audit process is led by a traffic engineer with the help of a team of local school officials, municipal representatives, law enforcement officials, and other community members. After a two-day assessment of existing or potential walking routes, the school is presented with a final report that includes short-, mid-, and long-term recommendations for improving safety and increasing student participation along the walking routes.

Any school interested in a walkability audit can obtain an application form online at www.saferoutespa.org/walkability-audits or by contacting info@saferoutespa.org or (717) 763-0930 (ask for Safe Routes). If your school is deemed eligible for an audit, a representative from the Pennsylvania SRTS Resource Center will be in touch to schedule a two-day site visit with an SRTS engineer.

Contact Your Senators And Reps About Important Transportation Votes Next Week

2012-02-09T13:25:00.000-05:00

Call your Senators and Representatives!

Both chambers of Congress will be debating transportation bills next week. Sadly, both are terrible. We can dream about a day in which we call our Congressmen to ask that they not spend quite so much money on active transportation. But today we have to speak up or risk losing all the ground we've gained in the past 50 years.

Click here to take action (via League of American Bicyclists)!

The House of Representatives
We've covered the unmitigated disaster that is the House Bill already. The full House will be debating the bill (HR 7) next week, which means you should call your Representative and voice your opposition to this horrendous bill.

The Senate
The Senate's own transportation bill allows state DOTs to opt-out of safe streets programs. Under this bill, DOTs could prevent cities and counties from receiving any federal funds for biking and walking infrastructure (money previously received from Transportation Enhancements, Safe Routes to School, and Recreational Trails programs).

An amendment to be considered next week would allow local governments to apply directly for federal funds to build walking and biking infrastructure. This Cardin-Cochran amendment doesn't redeem the bill, but it's an improvement, and our Senators need to hear our support for it. Send an e-mail or call their office directly.

Why? Here are four arrows for your quiver:

Walking and biking infrastructure are low-cost and create more jobs per dollar than any other kind of highway spending.
The House Bill (HR7) takes us back to the 1950s by eliminating dedicated funding for biking and walking, plus kicking transit out of the highway trust fund.
The House Bill eliminates Safe Routes to School, an effective and successful program helping our children stay safe while walking or biking to school.
Local governments know their transportation needs the best. The Cardin-Cochran amendment allows local government to apply for funding for sidewalks, crosswalks, and bikeways before that funding is diverted to highways.

The League of American Bicyclists has set up an e-mail system to automatically direct your message to the appropriate Senator and Representative.

Driver 3X over Legal Limit Gets 7 Years for Killing Cecilia Harrop

2012-02-08T09:00:00.001-05:00

According to the Courier Post, 40 year-old Daniel Stocklin pled guilty to vehicular homicide and was sentenced to 7 years a jail for killing tricyclist Cecilia Harrop, 39, in Brooklawn, NJ on July 7, 2010 (reported here). Stocklin’s blood-alcohol level was .246 at the time of the crash (the legal limit in NJ is .08.) The article notes that Stocklin was pulled over nearly a quarter mile away - technically a hit and run. The Judge has also suspended his license until 2020. Stocklin was also convicted of DUI in 1994.

View Bicyclists Crashes 2008-2010 NJ and SE PA in a larger map

2010 saw 4 area cyclists killed by drunk drivers

Four days after Ms. Harrop's death, 39 Year Old Manuel Albandoz was allegedly drunk, unlicensed, and driving a black Ford Taurus that did not belong to him when he fatally struck Celina Langan in the bike lane at Torresdale and Adams Avenues in East Frankford. This blog post suggest that Vehicular Homicide by DUI charges were dropped and bail was reduced. His attorney's quote was particularly disturbing.
On September 14, 2010, 44 year old Thomas McCoy was killed by a drunk driver on Route 47 in Deptford, NJ. On February 6th, Mary Dalton pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide and must serve out 85% of her sentence in jail. Dalton's blood alcohol level measured .235 after her arrest. Sentencing is scheduled for March 16th and she could face up to 10 years in jail.
Paul Jones, the man who struck and killed Randall Bratu on Baltimore Pike in Upper Darby. On December 30th 2010, pled guilty and was sentenced for 3 to 6 years in prison plus 3 years probation and $15,000 in restitution. His blood alcohol level was reportedly .286 at the time of his arrest. Last month, the Bicycle Coalition sent a letter to the court in asking for sentence stronger than the 3 year minimum for the offender.

Trail Closure: Portion Of Wissahickon Trail Closed For Emergency Repairs

2012-02-06T17:19:00.001-05:00

This just in from Philadelphia Streets Department: a section of the Wissahickon Trail near Forbidden Drive will be closed starting tomorrow. The reason is emergency repairs to a retaining wall, repairs which are expected to last 2 months. The press release is below and available online:

Read more »

South Philly Safe Street Design Meeting Recap (with new SimCity reference)

2012-02-03T16:11:00.000-05:00

We had an excellent turnout on Wednesday for the Safe Streets for Healthy Neighborhoods meeting. Thank you to everyone who showed up to see what the Community Design Collaborative design team has come up with to transform South Philly streets. They will now head back to their floating cities (or converted lofts, or wherever urban planners work their magic) to work on the final conceptual plans.

Artist's rendering of where artist's renderings are made

Missed the meeting? We've got a summary for you below, along with minutes from the meeting and slides showing the two designs presented.

Stay tuned to this space for future updates on this project, and the date and time of April's meeting to reveal the final plans.

Read more »

The Future Of The Schuylkill River Trail At South Street - A Preview On Wednesday

2012-02-03T14:02:00.000-05:00

Someday, all these lines will be dark green

There's a boardwalk coming which will connect the Schuylkill River Trail to the South Street Bridge...

There is built trail at Gray's Ferry Crescent just waiting for a connection...

Learn about the future of the Schuylkill River Trail for West & South Philly at a public meeting next Wednesday.

Date: Wednesday, February 8th
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Rainey Auditorium at Penn Museum, 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Come to this public meeting to learn about plans being considered to extend and connect the trail through the Gray's Ferry Crescent, the new Penn Park, and the West Bank Greenway. (See event flier below)

DVRPC Looking For Applicants For Its Public Task Force

2012-02-02T17:26:00.000-05:00

Interested in getting involved in regional transportation and planning issues? Is the Task Force section of your resume a little underwhelming? Well, The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) is looking for new members for its Public Participation Task Force. You can apply online (deadline is March 1st). Below is information from DVRPC on what this is all about:

Read more »

Bike/Ped Amendment Loses by a Hair (A Thank You To Those Who Pulled And Voted For It)

2012-02-02T12:15:00.003-05:00

In this morning's markup of the Transportation bill, the amendment to restore the Safe Routes to School and Transportation Enhancements program proposed by Reps Petri (R-WI), Johnson (R-Ill) and Lipinski (D-Ill) lost by two votes (27-29) after a heated debate and trashing by Chairman John Mica.

Two Republican Congressmen who sit on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee surprised us by their votes. Congressman LoBiondo (NJ-02) voted in favor, something we were not expecting, and Congressman Meehan (PA-07) voted against. Mr. LoBiondo was the only Republican to vote in favor of the amendment who wasn't a co-sponsor.

We pulled out all the stops by encouraging constituents, small businesses, and local officials to call and write to Congressmen Meehan and LoBiondo. We're gratified that Mr. LoBiondo listened to his constituents, but supremely disappointed that Mr. Meehan did not.

Read more »

Victory! DRPA Finally Moves Forward On Ben Franklin Bridge Ramp

2012-02-01T12:54:00.002-05:00

Question: What do over 1,000 signatures, 20 letters from local community groups, educational institutions, hospitals, development corporations and two Federal Senators, plus press coverage and boat loads of phone calls add up to?

Answer: progress!

This morning the Delaware River Port Authority Finance Committee voted unanimously to approve the designation of $350,000 to design a ramp for walkers and cyclists on the Camden side of the South Walkway of the Ben Franklin Bridge. This ramp will replace the current treacherous three story stair tower.

This is a victory for bicyclists and pedestrians in our region. Huzzah!

Let's Convince Congressmen Meehan and LoBiondo to be Bike/Ped Heroes

2012-01-31T13:22:00.004-05:00

The House Transportation Bill Straps Dynamite To Bicycle and Pedestrian Programs

The House Transportation Bill was made public today and it's worse than predicted. Here is how the bill takes the heart out of federal biking and walking policies:

Destroys Transportation Enhancements by making the program optional
Repeals the Safe Routes to School program, reversing years of progress in creating safe ways for kids to walk and ride bicycles to school
Allows states to build bridges without safe access for pedestrians and bicycles
Eliminates bicycle and pedestrian coordinators in state DOTs
Eliminates language that insures that rumble strips “do not adversely affect the safety or mobility of bicyclists, pedestrians or the disabled”

The operating philosophy of this House transportation bill

Great Balls of Fire! Welcome to the 1950's.

Congressman Tom Petri (R-WI) is going to introduce an amendment in Committee on Thursday, February 2nd that will restore the Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School programs. We really want the Petri amendment to pass. If it does, it sends a strong signal to the House (and Senate) Leadership that biking and walking should not be decimated.

You can see a list of TE and SRTS projects in LoBiondo and Meehan's districts here

Here's how you can help.
Congressman Pat Meehan (PA-7) and Frank LoBiondo (NJ-02) sit on the Committee and will vote on the bill on Thursday. They are key Congressmen for this vote. They need to hear from their constituents who want to preserve biking and walking funding that they should vote YES on the Petri Amendment.

If you live in either PA-7 or NJ-2, please call your Congressmen and let them know that you want them to vote YES on the PETRI amendment.

Frank LoBiondo (NJ-2) 609-625-5008
Pat Meehan (PA-7) 610-690-7323

An Improved Manayunk Canal Tow Path - Public Meeting Tonight

2012-01-31T08:38:00.004-05:00

Several capital projects are improving the Manayunk Canal Tow Path.

Thanks to the hard work of the Phila. Parks and Rec. Department and Philadelphia Water Department, the Manayunk Tow Path has been greatly improved. Check out the 360 view in the photo above.

The Schuylkill Project is organizing a public meeting to get the community up to date on the status of projects including Lower Venic Island Tank/Park/Performance Center, the Manayunk Tow Path and restoration planting in Shawmont.

Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Time: 7pm

Place: Manayunk Brew Pub

Wednesday's Ben Franklin Bridge Ramp Discussion Moved To 9:30 AM

2012-01-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

Note the New Time! The Ben Franklin Bridge ramp action item has been moved to the 9:30 AM Finance Committee meeting (from the 8:00 AM Operations and Management Committee meeting).*

It's still happening on Wednesday, still at One Port Center in Camden, NJ. Please join us at the meeting for a visible demonstration of the public support for this bicycle and disabled-pedestrian-friendly ramp. But now you can set your alarms later.

DRPA Finance Committee Meeting
Wednesday February 1st
9:30 AM
One Port Center, 11th Floor
2 Riverside Drive
Camden, NJ

View One Port Center in a larger map
*At the January 11th, 2012 DRPA meeting, the Finance Committee referred the bridge question to the Operations and Management Committee meeting.

In Which We Help Three High School Seniors Teach Their School About Bicycle Safety

2012-01-30T10:12:00.000-05:00

Our educational efforts, particularly our Safe Routes Philly program, strive for sustainability. The joy of riding a bicycle, and the improved quality of life that mass bicycle riding brings to a community, are messages being adopted by an increasing number of Philadelphia individuals, agencies, and organizations. Proof of this fell onto our desks recently in the form of three high school seniors looking to serve their community.

Several weeks ago, we were contacted by three seniors at GAMP (Girard Academic Music Program), a magnet school in South Philly. For their senior service project, they wanted to teach bicycle safety to their school's youngest students (5th grade). Needless to say, we were all about that.

Read more »

Why Congressman Pat Meehan needs to hear from you

2012-01-26T15:53:00.016-05:00

All eyes are on Congressman Pat Meehan (PA-7). He sits on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, which will be voting on the new House Transportation bill next Thursday. The bill
strips out funding for biking and walking programs, but, thankfully an amendment will be introduced to restore the funding.

Will Congressman Meehan support the amendment? Only if he hears from his constituents that they want him to. If you live in PA-7 (not sure? Check here) please call Congressman Meehan and ask him to vote in favor of the amendment that restores funding to Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes To School.

His District phone number is 610-690-7323 .

TE & Safe Routes to School funds brought $10.3 to pay for the following projects in Congressman Meehan's district (PA-7.)

East Goshen Township Pathway Project

Phoenixville Streetscape Project

Landsdowne Borough Gateway Park & Pedestrian Bike Trail

Lower Chichester Sidewalks and Trail

Lower Chichester Controlling Outdoor Advertising

Marcus Hook Streetscape

Media Downtown Streetscape

Radnor Station Renovations

Sharon Hill Train Station Rehab.

Swarthmore Intermodal Trans Improvements warthmore Delaware

Brandywine Historic Landmark Delaware

Schuylkill Lock Restoration

Upper Darby Township Sidewalks

Nether Providence Township Township Sidewalks

Swarthmore Borough Pedestrian Access Upgrade

Do you tweet? Send Congressman Meehan a tweet that you want him to support funding for biking and walking

For example: Do it! I called @RepMeehan 610-690-7323 to ask that he vote 2 restore funding for biking and walking in federal transpo bill #bikePHL

Put Biking and Walking Funding Back Into the House Transportation Bill

2012-01-26T07:00:00.005-05:00

Congress is finally moving on a federal transportation bill.

The House will release its bill tomorrow (January 27) and vote on it next Thursday (February 2).

The bill does NOT include dedicated funding for biking and walking. It will provide ZERO funding for Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School.

We must get those programs restored to the bill.

Please write and your Congressional representative today. It's especially urgent that those of you who live in districts represented by Congressmen Meehan, Shuster, Barletta and LoBiondo to call them at their District offices to reinforce the message!

Restore biking and walking funding in the House Transportation Bill.
Send an email and make a phone call today!

Keep Up The Pressure For The Ben Franklin Ramp: Attend DRPA Meeting Feb 1st

2012-01-25T14:56:00.000-05:00

We've been blitzing the Delaware River Port Authority about a ramp on the Ben Franklin Bridge since what seems like forever. We're getting closer - we've chased the quarterback from the pocket, but if we don't stay after him, we won't disrupt the play.

(In this analogy, the quarterback is DRPA, and the play is their attempt to dodge their responsibility to build a bicycle-friendly ramp. The four-man rush is ramp support from more than 1,000 petition signers, the University of Rutgers-Camden, 15 local companies and organizations, and the support of two members of Congress.)

How do we finish this play? Rally for the Ramp at the DRPA meeting on Wednesday, February 1st. They will be considering allocating funds for the ramp, and we need to maintain the visible public support for the project.

What: DRPA Operations & Management Committee Meeting
Where: The Delaware River Port Authority, One Port Center in Camden
When: Wednesday, Feb 1st
Time: 8:00 AM

Feel free to download and distribute the flyer below.

Ramp Flyer Web (1)

Senate PAsses Safe Passing Bill with No Amendments

2012-01-24T16:29:00.003-05:00

Breaking News! The PA Senate just passed by a vote of 45 to 5 House Bill 170, the Safe Passing Act.

THANK YOU to all 45 Senators who voted YEA, especially Senator Pileggi, who tweeted his support for the bill several times including this message sent a few minutes ago:

The #PaSenate has approved HB170, addressing bicycling safety issues, 45 to 5. Next stop: @GovernorCorbett #pagovt #hb170yes

Senator Lisa Boscola spoke against the bill before the vote, claiming that she heard from several "bicycle advocacy" groups that the bill would make things more unsafe for cyclists. Also voting against HB170 were: Senators Jane Earll (D-18), Jim Ferlo (D-38), Shirley Kitchen (D-3) and Michael Stack (D-5). Ouch! If you live in any of those Districts and disagree your Senator's vote, please let him/her know!

The bill now moves to Governor Corbett for his signature.

A Redesigned South Philly Street To Be Presented Feb 1st

2012-01-24T11:19:00.000-05:00

Do you live in South Philly? Are you interested in ways Philadelphia can make its existing streets better for walking, biking, and transit?

The Safe Streets for Healthy Neighborhoods initiative is a collaboration between the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and a Community Design Collaborative design team. The goal? To prioritize specific neighborhood corridors in Philadelphia and offer design solutions to make them better places for walking, biking, and transit.

A first meeting was held in November to solicit input from community members. Now the design team is ready to present preliminary designs and solicit one last round of community feedback.

When: Wednesday, February 1st
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Guerin Recreation Center
1600 Jackson Street, Phila PA 19145

The meeting is open to everyone! Come hear what the team has designed for a prototypical South Philly residential block, and provide your feedback! The City is paying close attention to this project, and this meeting is your chance to make a suggestion that might find its way onto a street near you.

What Is A Sharrow And What Does It Want From Us?

2012-01-19T18:16:00.000-05:00

Not a bike lane, but a bike-friendly street

Okay folks - we've heard there is some confusion about a new bicycling symbol that is popping up with increasing frequency on Philadelphia's streets. They have been spotted in Manayunk, in Center City, and in South Philly. Here's the lowdown on this new addition to Philly bike paint:

What Is That Funny Marking?
If painted on a road, it is a sharrow (a mix of the words 'share' and 'arrow'). If displayed on a sleeve, you are addressing a Corporal in the Bicycle Army.

Is It The Same As A Bike Lane?
No. It marks a lane shared by vehicles and bikes.

So What's The Point?
A sharrow is a visual reminder that bicyclists share the road, and offers an ideal 'line' for bicyclists to take on the street. They have many uses, such as bridging a gap in a bike lane network (example: on Pine between 23rd and 22nd St).

Read more »

Ben Franklin Bridge South Walkway to Reopen on Monday

2012-01-19T14:11:00.001-05:00

On Monday, January 23, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge south walkway is reopening to the public. Walkway hours are 6am to 8pm daily, weather permitting. With the reopening of the south walkway the north walkway will be closed to the public.

HB170 vote delayed until Jan. 23rd

2012-01-19T12:20:00.000-05:00

As reported earlier this week, HB170, PA's safe passing bill, was placed on the Senate calendar for a vote Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. Unfortunately, the bill's vote was put off until Monday, January 23rd.

HB 170 requires motorists to give cyclists four feet of room when passing. If passed, it will move Pennsylvania into the ranks of states who provide cyclists with more protection from passing motor vehicles. A story ran in the Patriot-News

It's still worthwhile to call your Senator one more time to urge him/her to pass HB170 with no amendments and to ask leadership to put the bill up for a vote. You can find your Senator's office phone number by keying in your address here.

If you tweet, help us by participating in this twitter campaign.

Tweet at the Senate GOP @PASenateGOP and Senate Democrats @PASenateDems with the hashtag #hb170yes

Example tweet:

Vote yes for HB170 on Jan 23 to make PA roads safe - 4 feet 2 pass @PASenateGOP @PASenateDems #hb170yes #bikePHL

Upcoming Public Meetings on SRT - Manayunk Tow Path, West Bank Connector & Gray's' Ferry Crossing

2012-01-18T17:00:00.001-05:00

Several capital projects are improving the Manayunk Canal Tow Path.

Thanks to the hard work of the Phila. Parks and Rec. Department and Philadelphia Water Department, the Manayunk Tow Path has been greatly improved. Check out the 360 view in the photo above.

Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Time: 7pm

Place: Manayunk Brew Pub

_______________________________________________

Schuylkill River Development Corporation is holding a public meeting to present concepts about two SRT projects

Ever wonder how Gray's Ferry Crescent will get connected to the rest of the Schuylkill River Trail. Or what happens after the Boardwalk gets built and ends at South Street Bridge?

Find out at this public meeting about the West Bank Schuylkill River Trail and Gray's Ferry Crossing.

Date: Wednesday, February 8

Time: 6pm

Location: Rainey Auditorium at Penn Museum, 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Winter Walking Safety Tips From Safe Routes Philly

2012-01-18T10:22:00.000-05:00

As much of the fun part of the Internet is blacked out today, you might find yourself walking outside (don't panic, they're call pigeons, they're harmless). Snow, cold temperatures, and early darkness should not prevent you or your children from outdoor exercise this winter. Here are some safe walking tips you can review with your children before walking to school or the park, prepared by our Safe Routes Philly Community Representatives.

Be Prepared For Early Darkness

In the winter months it gets dark earlier, so be mindful of the time. If you know you’re going to be out after dark, have a walking buddy. Always try and stay in well-lit areas.

Look Out For Ice

Keep your eyes peeled for ice patches on the sidewalks or in the street. Ice can be hard to see, especially when clear on top of black asphalt. Ice can remain on the ground even if the air feels warm. Never scamper across the street against oncoming traffic, but especially when there could be ice on the road.

Take Extra Precautions When Walking Before/During/After Extreme Weather

Extreme weather can cause city traffic and parking to be a little disjointed. Keep an eye out for visual barriers, such as snow mounds or unique parking situations, which might block you from a motorist's view. Bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians all have to be especially aware of one another during snowfall or flurries. Make sure you have a clear view of the street and traffic has a clear view of you before attempting to cross the street.

Bundle Up

A warm jacket, hat and gloves will keep you warm when playing a game of catch in the park or walking
to or from school.

Philadelphia City Cycling Committee Tonight 6:30 PM

2012-01-17T15:57:00.001-05:00

The Philadelphia City Cycling Committee will hold it's monthly meeting tonight Tuesday January 17th at 6:30 PM at the BCGP Offices at 1500 Walnut St, Suite 1107. Bike parking is available at the bike corral at Walnut and Sydenham bwtween 15th and 16th next to Chipotle. Bikes are allowed in the building but you need to use the Freight Elevator at the end of the elevator bank.

Agenda for 17 January 2012,

6:00 Refreshments

6:30 Welcome and Introductions

6:35 Coalition Update:

Ben Franklin Bridge
Hoagie Turn - (Kelly Drive and Ridge Ave)
Safe Streets for Healthy Neighborhoods: February 1, 2012 at the Guerin Recreation Center, 1600 Jackson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145

6:50 MOTU Update:

Pedestrian and Bicycle Coordinator, Charles Carmalt

7:15 Announcements

Tenth Street Bike Lanes Discussion with Rep from Chinatown CDC on 23 Feb. 2012
National Bike Summit Lobby Day - Thursday March 22nd at the Capital Hill Complex in Washington.
Ride of Silence May 16, 2012

7:20 City Committee - Future Function, Goals and Schedule

Combination with BCGP volunteer opportunities

7:45 PM - Adjourn

Next Meeting Thursday February 23 (note different day)

PA's Safe PAssing Bill Scheduled for Senate Vote

2012-01-17T07:30:00.003-05:00

At long last, HB170 has been scheduled for a vote in the Senate! This is Pennsylvania's long-awaited state-wide safe PAssing bill. Harrisburg may be poised finally to put the PA in safe passing for cyclists.

HB 170 requires motorists to give cyclists four feet of room when passing. If passed, it will move Pennsylvania into the ranks of states who provide cyclists with more protection from passing motor vehicles.

HB170 is on the Senate calendar for Tuesday, January 17, 2012. Please call your Senator one more time to urge him/her to pass HB170 with no amendments. You can find your Senator's office phone number by keying in your address here.

Safe Routes to School Wants To Hire A New Jersey Organizer

2012-01-13T11:50:00.001-05:00

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership have posted a job opening for a New Jersey (Trenton region) state advocacy organizer. This is a work-from-home position.

Applications for the position are due by Thursday, February 2nd at 5:00 PM. They encourage applicants to apply early as there will be rolling interviews. Below are details from the website about the job:

Summary: The state advocacy organizer builds, strengthens and maintains a state network of diverse organizations, public agencies and partners to achieve the following three main policy objectives:

Leverage funding for bicycle and pedestrian construction projects, including the award and obligation of federal Safe Routes to School and Transportation Enhancements funds.
Facilitate additional street-scale improvements through the adoption of Complete Streets policies, design guidelines that support active transportation, and other mechanisms at state, regional and local levels.
Advance joint-use agreements through state level policies and agreements between cities and school districts.

All policies must benefit lower-income communities and are intended to improve the built environment and increase physical activity to help reverse childhood obesity. More information is available online here.

Philadelphia Installing City-Wide System of Bike Direction Signs

2012-01-12T12:50:00.000-05:00

Sign at 13th & Pine

Have you noticed the green bicycling direction signs going up around Philadelphia? Spiffy, no? There are more on the way.

The City of Philadelphia is putting up more than 400, in an innovative collaboration between the Dept. of Public Health and the Planning Commission. Directional signage is typically installed by transportation agencies. Here in Philly, these other two city agencies are encouraging active transportation while making the city more explicitly bike friendly. Big kudos to them.

We had a small hand in the initiative, working with the Planning Commission and Mayor's Office of Transportation to identify locations for the signs. (*puffs on fingernails, rubs fingernails on shirt*)

We asked Clint Randall from Get Healthy Philly about the project, and he provided the following information:
Read more »

39 Steps or a Ramp: DRPA Postpones Ben Franklin Bridge Decision (Again)

2012-01-12T03:00:00.000-05:00

Credit: Alejandro Alvarez

At yesterday's DRPA Finance Committee meeting, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and Tri-State Transportation Campaign submitted a host of materials supporting the restoration of funding for the Camden-side ramp. DRPA received:

18 letters from area businesses and organizations (including Campbell's Soup, Concerned Citizens of North Camden and AARP New Jersey).
The comments from over 1000 petition signers asking that DRPA restore funding for the ramp in its 2012 Capital Program.
A joint letter from Senators Lautenberg and Menendez, hand-delivered to CEO Matheussen at the beginning of the meeting.
After the meeting, Rutgers-Camden also delivered a letter.

DRPA staff prepared a resolution at the direction of PA Auditor General Jack Wagner, and the resolution was discussed at the meeting. Robert Teplitz, the Auditor General's General Counsel, attended the meeting and spoke up for the need to put the ramp back into the Capital Program. After much discussion, the Finance Committee decided to ask DRPA staff to look into non-DRPA sources of funding and will take up the topic again at its Operations and Management meeting on February 1st.

Free Crossing Guard Training Sessions In Chester and Lehigh Counties

2012-01-11T15:04:00.000-05:00

Are you a crossing guard or do you work at a school which uses crossing guards? The Pennsylvania Safe Routes to School Resource Center is offering one-day training sessions for crossing guards. Unfortunately none of them take place in Philadelphia, but there are a handful in the surrounding counties. More information from the Resource Center below:

Crossing Guard Train-the-Trainer Courses Now Available: REGISTER TODAY

If you are responsible for training school crossing guards, then make plans to attend the Crossing Guard Train-the-Trainer courses offered by the Pennsylvania Safe Routes to School Resource Center. This one-day training focuses on teaching adults how to be effective, efficient, and safe crossing guards so that participants can return to their communities and set up similar training geared for local crossing guards.

Read more »

Anthropologie Merges Into Philly's Bike Lanes

2012-01-10T16:28:00.001-05:00

Philadelphia is quietly becoming one of the most bike-oriented cities in the country. You know the saying: first comes biking. Then comes bike lanes. Then comes boho bike lane dresses.

Anthropologie has recently rolled out the bike lane dress.

Unlike its muse, this dress can and should be deployed on sidewalks.

Evidently, some of those designers down in the Navy Yard are getting there by bike, despite the (present) lack of a good north/south bike lane route through South Philly. That, or they are shamelessly capitalizing on Philadelphia's growing love of bicycling.

But either way, we're glad to see our hometown yuppie-boho clothing designers are encouraging women ages 20-40 to punctuate their springtime looks with a homage to how we're getting around.

Middletown Township Green Lights Chester Creek Branch Rail-Trail

2012-01-10T11:03:00.000-05:00

The subject heading says it all. Yesterday the Middletown Township Council voted in favor of constructing the Chester Creek Branch Rail-Trail. Construction may begin as soon as this spring. We are told the meeting room was packed and overwhelmingly in favor of the trail.

DRPA Rebuilding Camden 5th Street Tunnel Without ADA Ramps

2012-01-06T11:38:00.003-05:00

As we have reported before, the 5th Street tunnel in Camden has been indefinitely closed for construction since the summer. The construction includes a new sidewalk adjacent to the tunnel and it was hoped that the DRPA would make the tunnel wheelchair accessible. A glance at the progress from the North Walkway entrance shows no ramp access to the tunnel and no curb cuts in the new sidewalks.

A high curb and no curb cuts to facilitate wheelchair access.

Make Your Ride Better for 2012

2011-12-30T14:28:00.002-05:00

Get a head start on your New Year's resolutions and make a year-end gift to the Bicycle Coalition. It's even tax deductible! And in the approaching cold of winter, thinking of your generosity will warm your heart as you wait for spring and the chance to ride on a new section of the Schuylkill River Trail.

The Down Side of Crowdsourcing - Google "Bicycling" Layer Gets Fuzzy

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Perhaps the greatest and under-appreciated accomplishment of Google Bike Directions is that is has created the most comprehensive mapping database of bicycle facilities in North America. Thousands of miles of bike lanes and tens of thousands of miles of shared use paths have been mapped by bike enthusiasts from all over who reported bike facilities through the "report a problem" function or in Google Mapmaker. Google Maps and its updated satellite imagery has also enabled the BCGP and its partners to create the regional trail map website.

But we have noticed lately that the crowdsourced effort has become a victim of its own success. A lack of criteria that defines usable bike facilities in the "bicycling layer" is diluting its original purpose
Read more »

Ben Franklin Bridge South Walkway Closure

2011-12-22T11:47:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, December 27, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge south walkway is temporarily closingbecause of work being done on the bridge. The north walkway will be open for pedestrians and cyclists.Walkway hours are 6am to 8pm daily.

The south walkway will remain closed until further notice with oneexception. The south walkway will be open all day on Saturday, December 31, beginning at 6am to givewalkway users the opportunity to watch the 6pm fireworks display over the Delaware River. The walkwaywill then close at the usual time of 8pm.

Those using the north walkway should be advised the Fifth Street pedestrian tunnel is closed inCamden. Alternates include the Sixth Street pedestrian tunnel or the Third Street underbridge sidewalk.

View North Walkway Alternate Routes to Downtown Camden in a larger map

Montco's 2012 Budget Passes with Minimal Cut to Parks and Planning

2011-12-21T14:48:00.020-05:00

Our voice was heard again!

Over 450 letters were sent earlier this week by cyclists asking the Montgomery County Commissioners to spare the Parks & Heritage Services Department and the Planning Commission when they voted on the 2012 budget this morning. These letters were in addition to the 1600 letters sent several weeks ago when the Commissioners were considering eliminating those two departments.

An overwhelming response from the cycling community helped forestall an elimination of those two departments. Our letters and testimonies at the public hearing on December 10th made a huge impact. This morning, the Commissioners adopted by a 3-0 vote a $417.4 million budget, which will cut all non-court related departments by 2.5%. They voted a tax increase of 16.9%, which will raise average property taxes by $77.

Although we had asked the Commissioners to keep the Parks and Planning department budgets at 2011 levels, a 2.5% cut is better than many expected. It will be up to the Department heads to decide how to make those cuts, so we won't know for a few weeks what the exact impact will be.

The Parks Department just sent the Bicycle Coalition this email message:

"The Montgomery County Commissioners have adopted a 2012 budget that includes funding to keep our department up and running! Your voices, emails, blogs and personal appearances were instrumental in keeping our Parks, Trails and Historic Sites open to the public, with sufficient funding to be maintained and patrolled. We could not have been successful with this challenge without concerned users like yourselves. We are also very “humbled” by the thousands of people who supported our facilities, and the work we take pride in doing every day!"

While we dodged a bullet this year, this debate will undoubtedly come up again in the 2012 budget. We will need to keep on top of this issue during the next year. Nevertheless, we're grateful for this victory!

Thanks to everyone who took action!

Regional Trail Program Awards $5.2 Million to 18 Trail Projects

2011-12-20T12:55:00.015-05:00

In late October, DVRPC awarded $5.2 million through Phase I of its Regional Trails Program, a grant program funded by $10 Million from the William Penn Foundation, to eighteen projects around the 9 county Delaware Valley region.

These initiatives include both trail design and trail construction in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. They extend existing trails, including the Schuylkill River Trail in Phoenixville, the Chester Valley Trail near Exton, and the East Coast Greenway in Tullytown. They connect the existing and planned elements of the regional trail network to neighborhoods through projects like the Baldwin's Run Tributary Trail in Camden and the Lawrence-Hopewell Trail in Lawrence. Finally, these grants support several landmark projects, including the Manayunk Bridge Trail that will provide a cross-river connection between Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township and serve as a destination for bikers and walkers from across the region.

The awards to trail projects include:

Reading to Hamburg Schuylkill River Trail Gap (Leesport section) – $142,630 (design and construction) – Berks County
Big Woods/Schuylkill-Hopewell Furnace Trail – $500,000 (construction – Phase 1, survey – Phase 2) – Berks and Chester Counties – Berks County
Neshaminy Creek Greenway (Phase I) -- $130,148 (construction) – Bucks County
US Route 13 Crossing – $471,000 (construction) – Bucks County
Baldwin’s Run Tributary Trail – $150,000 (design) – Camden County
Chester Valley Trail Phase III – $500,000 (construction) – Chester County
Phoenixville Schuylkill River Trail Segment – Phase I -- $285,000 (design and construction) – Chester County
Darby Creek Trail -- $290,000 (construction) – Delaware County
Lawrence-Hopewell Trail: Lewisville Road Section -- $248,000 (construction) – Mercer County
Chester Valley Trail Extension – $325,000 (construction) – Montgomery County
Canal Towpath Spillway Bridge – $170,000 (construction) – Montgomery County
Tacony Frankford Greenway Trail – $500,000 (construction) – Philadelphia
Penn Street Trail – $500,000 (design and construction) – Philadelphia
Schuylkill Crossing at Grays Ferry – $260,000 (preliminary design) – Philadelphia

In addition, the DVRPC Board today approved $125,000 in funding for Camden County’s Kaighn’s Avenue to Route 130 Connector Trail. This project was one of four “early action” projects originally approved for $50,000 of funding in July 2011. The grant has since been revised to $125,000. The other three early action projects were:

Manayunk Bridge -- $400,000 (design) – Philadelphia
Spring Garden Street Greenway – $75,000 (design) – Philadelphia
Schuylkill South -- $165,000 (acquisition for future extension of waterfront trail) – Philadelphia

In mid-December, DVRPC received applications for Phase II of the program, for projects that were seeking planning and feasibility funding. Those awards are expected to be announced in early 2012.

Child Bike Helmet Giveaway In Haddington Neighborhood This Wednesday

2011-12-20T12:49:00.000-05:00

Do you live in the Haddington section of Philadelphia and have a child who rides bicycles? You can pick up a free children's bike helmet and fitting this Wednesday as part of the Kohl's Injury Prevention Program.

More information below:

Kohl's Injury Prevention Program at CHOP will be holding a free child's helmet giveaway and fitting at the Neighborhood Bike Works Haddington location. The event is in honor of NBW's Build-a-Bike program graduates and the ongoing partnership between Kohl's and CHOP.

Date: Wednesday, December 22nd
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Location: Neighborhood Bike Works - Haddington / 230 N. Salford Street, Philadelphia PA (near 60th & Vine)

Also if you're a fan of oversized checks (and who isn't?), Kohl's will be presenting CHOP with an oversized check for $637,125 to support the hospital's injury prevention programs.

Ask Montco Commissioners to Preserve Funding for Trails at 12/21 Budget Vote

2011-12-19T14:34:00.014-05:00

Our voice was heard once; let it be heard again!

Over 1,600 letters were sent via the Bicycle Coalition's website protesting the draconian proposal to eliminate, among other programs, Montgomery County's Parks & Heritage Services Department and the Planning Commission.

When visited last week by the Bicycle Coalition, Commissioner Hoeffel reported that the overwhelming amount of support the Commissioners saw for Montgomery County's trails and parks convinced them to back off their drastic budget proposal.

Nevertheless, Montco's Commissioners are considering across-the-board cuts to all Departments. when they vote on a final budget on Wednesday, December 21st. The budgets of Parks and Heritage Services & the Planning Commission have already been cut between 13-22% over the past several years. Further cuts will debilitate the County's ability to plan effectively for new trails and operate the parks and trails in place.

Ask the Commissioners to maintain Montco Parks and Planning at 2011 budget levels. Send a quick letter today! Let your voice be heard!

Contest To Name Our Regional Trail Network Extended Until Wednesday

2011-12-16T13:43:00.001-05:00

The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, working with the William Penn Foundation, is running a contest to find a great name for our regional trail network.

They've extended the contest deadline to Wednesday, December 21st. The author of the winning entry will receive $250.

Full details of the contest and how to submit your name ideas can be found on the DVRPC site here.

Follow Up Coverage Of This Week's DRPA and US Senate Votes

2011-12-15T16:19:00.000-05:00

Following up on two votes we were tracking earlier this week:

US Senate Committee Passes Complete Streets Amendment
We applaud PA Senator Pat Toomey for voting in support of the Complete Streets amendment to the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Enhancement Act. We blogged about this on Tuesday, and on Wednesday the amendment was approved unanimously by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Coverage of Wednesday's DRPA Meeting
The Delaware River Port Authority met on Wednesday and did not include money for the Camden-side ramp in their budget. The Philadelphia Inquirer covered the story, with this quote providing some hope for the ramp:

Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner, unsuccessful in his attempt to block the spending, then called on the board to early next year dedicate most of the unspent $10 million to two transportation projects cut from the agency's 2012 capital budget: a bicycle and wheelchair ramp on the Camden side of the Ben Franklin Bridge ($3.2 million) and the reopening of the long-closed Franklin Square subway station on the PATCO line in Philadelphia ($3.5 million).

NJ.com covered the meeting in detail, and CBS Philly quoted our own John Boyle in their coverage.

Honor Ride in Bethlehem for Fallen Cyclist Patrick Ytsma

2011-12-15T11:30:00.000-05:00

The Coalition for Appropriate Transportation will be a hosting a memorial ride for Patrick Ytsma, who died on December 8th after being struck from behind by an elderly driver four days earlier. The ride through downtown Bethlehem will stop at the crash site on the Fahy (New Street) Bridge for a moment of silence, and will be accompanied by City of Bethlehem police on bicycles. The ride will end at Payrow Plaza between Bethlehem City Hall and the Library, with cyclists gathering to remember Patrick's contributions to bicycle advocacy.

Lights and helmets are required. Out of respect for Patrick and his family, organizers ask that riders obey all traffic laws and avoid carrying signs during the ride.

When: December 22nd 2011 at 6:30PM.
Where: Parking lot at Main and W. Lehigh Streets in Bethlehem, PA.
Departs: 7:00 PM Rain or Shine.
For more information: CAT cat@car-free.org or (610) 954-5744

Capital Funds for Ben Franklin Bridge Ramp Still Possible

2011-12-14T16:42:00.002-05:00

Today our Research Director John Boyle led an early morning bike ride across the bridge to the DRPA Board meeting (where they were met by TV helicopters and an Inquirer photographer). At the meeting John testified during the public comment period (deftly scheduled after the votes were taken on the budget) and presented to the Commissioners the more than 900 signatures we gathered on our online petition.

At the meeting, the Commissioners voted through the 2012 capital budget without funding for the ADA ramp, but Pennsylvania's Auditor General, Jack Wagner, promised to put forth a resolution at the January meeting designating money from unspent capital funds for the ramp and the Franklin Square PATCO stop.

Please sign the petition if you haven't already done so!

Foodies or Fixies? The Philebrity Award Dilemma (with Statler and Waldorf)

2011-12-14T14:16:00.000-05:00

We are 24 hours away from the end of voting for the 2011 Philebrity Awards. Five worthy nonprofits are nominated, but it's been a two-horse race for most of the voting period. The Food Trust (polite applause) has held solid at 40% of the votes, while we, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia (thunderous applause!) has maintained roughly 30% of the voting.

Why is 70% of the vote going to these two organizations? Because Philebrity is giving its hipster readership an impossible choice: foodies vs. fixies.

To help sort this out, we spoke to two people who know nothing about hipsters but do enjoy sharing opinions: Statler and Waldorf. Here is a transcript of the conversation:

Senate Committee Votes Tomorrow On Complete Streets Amendment

2011-12-13T16:09:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will vote on an amendment which would require federally-funded street projects to consider all road users (including pedestrians and bicyclists) in their design.

This is the first time in six years that Complete Streets policies have been acted upon on a federal level.

Sen. Pat Toomey sits on this Committee. Below is a letter we sent to Toomey's office. The League of American Bicyclists is organizing engaged citizens to contact their respective Senators. You can take action here.

Bike Ride to DRPA Board Meeting

2011-12-12T17:33:00.002-05:00

This Wednesday, December 14th, is the last chance to make ourselves heard by the Delaware River Port Authority Board of Commissioners. Please join us if you can for a bike ride over the Ben Franklin Bridge to the DRPA Board meeting.

We will meet at 8:00 AM at the South Walkway (5th Street entrance) in Philadelphia and plan to arrive on the Camden side at 8:30am. We will invite the press to meet us there.

To date more than 450 people have signed the petition, which we will present to the Board of Commissioners at the meeting. We are speaking loudly and your comments have been fantastic! Here are a few of the reasons why people want a ramp on the Camden side of the Ben Franklin Bridge:

"I commute over the bridge frequently for shopping. It is almost impossible to roll a heavily laden bicycle up the little ramp built onto the side of the steps. It is very hard work pushing the bike up and the bicycle bags keep getting caught against the side of the railing. Because of this, I do not shop in Philadelphia as often as I would like."
"[I] should not need to be a super hero to get a bike onto the walkway."
"The ability to bicycle commute between the NJ and PA communities in our area is essential to the optimizing the health and fitness, well-being, and environmental surroundings of citizens. As with so many other projects like this, the expense of adding a ramp will only boost long-term economic activity in the area."

The DRPA Board meeting is Wednesday, December 14th, at 9am. It is being held at 1 Port Center, 11th Floor, Camden, NJ (directions).

A better way to the top.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center

Bicycle Safety Advocate Killed in Bethlehem

2011-12-09T21:00:00.000-05:00

Lehigh Valley Wheelman member and Coalition for Appropriate Transportation (CAT) volunteer Patrick Ytsma died early Thursday morning. He was struck from behind Sunday shortly after sunset by a 79 year old driver on the Fahy Bridge. At the time of the crash he was wearing a reflective vest and helmet. Patrick was a safety advocate and volunteer instructor for CAT.

To date no charges have been filed.

View PA/NJ Bicycle Crashes 2011-2012 in a larger map

Services: Tomorrow (Saturday) 11 a.m. at Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, 17th & Hamilton Streets, Allentown. Burial will follow at Fountain Hill Cemetery, in the green section. Bicyclists are invited to follow with their bikes to the cemetery. This will be the very first green burial in the Lehigh Valley.

You can honor Patrick's legacy by signing the petition asking the Pennsylvania Senate to pass HB170 the 4 foot safe passing bill. Your efforts to date have helped kicked this bill out of committee and it is now closer than ever to final passage.

A memorial ride is being planned for sometime in the near future. Our sympathies go out to Patrick's family and we thank him for his service to the bicycling community.

Bike Coalition Asks DRPA To Restore Funding for BF Bridge Walkway Ramp

2011-12-09T13:47:00.015-05:00

In a letter sent today, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia formally asked the Board of Commissioners to restore funding for the Walkway Ramp Capital Project.

"On behalf of the hundreds of cyclists and pedestrians who use the Ben Franklin Bridge daily, the hundreds of thousands of bicyclists who ride throughout the region, and the over 2500 members of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, I request that you restore funding in the 2012 Capital Program Budget for an ADA compliant ramp on the Camden side of the Ben Franklin Bridge at your December 14th meeting," said Alex Doty, Executive Director of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. "Because it is DRPA's mission 'to provide quality transportation services across the river and invest[s] in the economic growth of Southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey,' it must prioritize building the ramp as a 2012 capital project."

The DRPA Finance Committee, with no public notice about its agenda, on December 7th approved a 2012 Capital Budget that omits Capital Project BF1101 to build the ramp, which has been in the 5 Year Capital Program for over five years and delayed several times. At a July 2010 Board meeting, CEO John Matheussen promised that the ramp would be built in 2012.

The Bicycle Coalition's letter also makes the point that "eliminating this project goes against NJ's Complete Streets Policies and continues to deny the public ADA access to the Ben Franklin Bridge Walkway. The ramp connects directly with the $6 million regional trail investment made by the 2010 federal TIGER Grant awarded to Camden, which Coopers Ferry Partnership is now implementing. NJ DOT is providing support and guidance for the TIGER project and even delivered a cost estimate for the ramp. The lack of a ramp is a critical obstacle to the region’s trail network and is a deterrent to Camden and Philadelphia’s economic development efforts to enhance the Delaware Riverfront."

Over 200 people have signed the petition asking DRPA to restore funding to design and build the ramp in 2012 and many have left their own comments about why it is so important for the Ben Franklin Bridge to have this ramp. The Bicycle Coalition will bring the petition signatures to the December 14th Board meeting at which the Commissioners will vote to approve the Capital Budget.

Take action by signing the petition! If you can make it, come to the December 14th Board meeting at One Port Center in Camden at 9am to demonstrate that bicyclists and walkers deserve their vote to restore funding for the walkway ramp.

Two Student-Made Videos About Bicycling and Street Safety

2011-12-08T18:19:00.001-05:00

It's Student Video Friday! Below are two recent videos, one made in Philadelphia and one in Florida, which emphasize bicycle and pedestrian safety. Both are made by students, and both are great viewing.

Video 1: BPSOS Talking To Philadelphians About Bike Lanes

Our Safe Routes Philly staff helped the BPSOS program this summer with its Summer Youth Bicycle and Environmental Program. The program led ten Philadelphia high school students through a 6-week examination of urban planning issues in the city, specifically surrounding transportation. We blogged about the program earlier this year.

Read more »

Support Scudder Falls Bridge - The Bike Path to Everywhere

2011-12-08T17:08:00.000-05:00

December is turning out to be a banner month for showing up at meetings and testifying to save bikeways. We have one final lump of coal that you need to help us throw into the blast furnace.

The proposed bicycle and pedestrian walkway on the Scudder Falls Bridge is being criticized as a waste of money ahead of a public meeting about an Environmental Assessment on the project. Supporters of the walkway can:

Send e-mails voicing your support for the walkway.
Attend the public hearing to show support for the project (see details below).

The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission has opened up public comment for the final version of the Environmental Assessment for the Scudder Falls Bridge. This new addition is the result of the demand to publish the environmental impact of charging automated tolls on the bridge (who knew?).

Read more »

Delaware River Port Authority To Bicyclists: The Ben Franklin Bridge Is Not For You

2011-12-07T16:13:00.000-05:00

John Matheussen in 2010, promising to build the ramp

Today, with no opportunity for public comment, the Delaware River Port Authority's Finance Committee approved a draft Capital Program that reneges on their promise to design and build capital project BF1101: an ADA accessible ramp on the Camden side of the Ben Franklin Bridge.

Sign this petition to send DRPA's Board a message: HONOR YOUR PROMISES - BUILD THE RAMP!

As we reported in January, funds designated in the 2011 draft budget to design the ramp were eliminated when the DRPA Board decided to delay all projects that did not directly involve public safety. This action was taken despite a public promise by Chief Executive Officer John J. Matheussen at the July 2010 Board meeting that DRPA would build the ramp in 2012.

Read more »

Montco Budget Hearing Overflows With Supporters of Parks & Planning

2011-12-07T14:01:00.007-05:00

It was standing room only in Court Room A at the Montgomery County Courthouse, and an overflow room had to be set up across the street to accommodate the overflow crowd.

Commissioner Matthews was a no show. A motion was made to make Commissioner Hoeffel the new Chairman due to Mr. Matthews resignation. At least 50+ members of the public made 2 minute public comments and during the time we were at the hearing, not a single person supported the proposed draconian cuts to the budget.

The Bicycle Coalition expressed the views of the over 1500 persons who have sent in emails to the Commissioners that we are all "shocked" that Montgomery County would even consider shutting down its park and planning departments. Montgomery County is considered the region's leader in trails; it's unfathomable that it would lead the way in abandoning its own trail system or planning efforts. Such action would harm not only the residents of Montgomery County, but the entire region as well, as people come from all over to enjoy the Schuylkill River Trail, Perkiomen Trail and other trails and parks within the county. Montco's trails are part of the regional trail network and have been built over many years with local, county, state and federal investments. Abandoning those investments would be pennywise and pound foolish. In addition, any action to cut these two departments would put hundreds of thousands of dollars of new grants recently awarded to the County from the State, Feds and the William Penn Foundation in jeopardy.

You can still send a personal letter to the Commissioners and Commissioners-elect to restore the Parks Department and Planning Commission to 2011 levels.

Highlighting an Elementary Educator Finding Bicycles for His Students

2011-12-07T11:12:00.001-05:00

Our Safe Routes Philly program is busy with its second year of encouraging Philadelphia elementary school students to safely walk or bike to school. In the course of working with educators to implement our curriculum, we meet many incredible men and women who have started encouragement activities of their own. Here is one of them:

Mr. Scott Kurzinsky is the PE teacher at Pratt Elementary (22nd & Susquehanna, in North Philly). He has been a valuable partner of Safe Routes Philly - he taught all of our curriculum last year and plans to do so again this year. On his own initiative, he started an earn-a-bike program at Pratt. We asked him about the idea.

Read more »

Montco Budget Hearing Today - Trails and Parks On the Line

2011-12-07T07:52:00.006-05:00

The Bicycle Coalition will be at today's budget hearing in Norristown at 10am in the County Courthouse (Courtroom A). Please join us!

County Commissioners must adopt a budget by December 21st and we will ask that funding for the Parks and Planning Department be restored. Having generated over 1500 emails sent to the County Commissioners, we will ask the Commissioners to listen to their constituents and act responsibly. Both the Parks and Planning departments are proposed to be eliminated.

Montgomery County built one of the best trail systems in southeast PA and has the most completed section of the Schuylkill River Trail, which is visited by hundreds of thousands of users annually. The Commissioners have a duty to protect and maintain the investment made by their predecessors, the State and the federal government to build the county's parks and trail systems.

Montco Budget Drama Continues: Commissioner Matthews Arrested

2011-12-06T09:51:00.014-05:00

As I started this blog post, the news to report was that tomorrow's budget hearing venue had changed to a larger room because of the large outcry over the draconian proposed 2012 budget.

The Commissioners moved the hearing across the street to the Courthouse

Wednesday, December 7 at 10:00 am.
Montgomery County Courthouse Court Room A, Swede Street entrance
Swede St and W. Airy Ave
Norristown, PA

The Bicycle Coalition's action last Friday generated over 1,398 letters sent to each of the three current commissioners and to the two newly elected commissioners protesting the proposal to shut down Montco's parks, trails and Planning Department. If you haven't sent in your letter yet, please email your own personalized letter now.

But, the drama escalated this morning when news broke that Commissioner Chair James Matthews was arrested on perjury charges. This is not good news for our side because Mr. Matthews was supportive of increasing taxes to forestall such severe cuts.

Here's more about the outrage pouring into the Commissioners' offices: Phillyburbs, the Mercury, Pottstown Mercury Editorial, Phoenixville Patch.

DVRPC Announces Grants To Bike/Ped Projects In Pennsylvania

2011-12-05T17:36:00.000-05:00

The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission has announced the recipients of the 2012 Pennsylvania Transportation and Community Development Initiative Grants. In total, $1.2 Million was awarded to 24 projects. The projects listed below offer possible significant improvements for bicycling in the region, although other projects may contain some bicycle benefits as part of their final product. TCDI has been well-used by the City of Philadelphia as the primary source of funding for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

Mayors Office of Transportation, Center City Cycle Track Signal Timing - $76,000

The project is part of a larger initiative to design, test and build a cycle track along JFK Boulevard and Market Street, from Center City to 30th Street Station. The Center City District has been studying the feasibility of building such a cycle track since 2009. This study will build upon the work of these conceptual studies and provided analysis for the western portion of the proposed cycle track (20th to 30th Sts). Completing this study will enable the City and the CCD to develop the preliminary engineering for the cycle track.

City of Philadelphia, Washington Avenue Streetscape and Design - $75,000

This study will improve roadway safety and functionality for pedestrians, cyclists, passenger vehicles, buses and trucks on Washington Avenue. The study will also clarify parking and loading areas, look at landscaping and other streetscape improvements, and take into consideration and recommend land use changes along Washington Avenue. The goal of the project is to develop a plan for Washington Avenue as a Complete Street that works.

No Volunteer Night This Week

2011-12-05T14:10:00.001-05:00

Just a head's up - we won't be having volunteer night this Wednesday. If you live in Montgomery County and want to scratch that make-our-region-better-for-bicycling-itch, you can instead attend the budget hearing for the disastrous proposed budget.

That meeting, unfortunately, is at 10:00 AM Wednesday:

Proposed 2012 Montgomery Co. Budget Public Hearing.
Wednesday, December 7 at 10:00 am.
One Montgomery Plaza, 8th Floor
Swede St and W. Airy Ave
Norristown, PA

Like Naming Things? Name Our Regional Trail Network!

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Are you good at naming things? Do you have a lot of pets, or kids, all with terrific names they've really grown into as dogs, or people?

Well, there's a contest happening to confer a name upon the network of bike/ped trails that snakes through the 9-county region.

The William Penn Foundation is working with DVRPC on a naming contest. Visit the contest website here for additional details. The contest ends on December 16th. The creator of the winning entry will receive $250 and the fame of having his or her name attached to our regional trail network.

Below is information from the William Penn Foundation about the contest:

Name Our Trail Network Contest

Our region's network of trails needs a name. We need your help!

Submit your best ideas to NameOurTrailNetwork@gmail.com. The entry selected by our jury will receive a $250 cash prize!

Greater Philadelphia's developing system of trails has energized communities across the region, with each new segment connecting more neighborhoods and residents. This network - which includes the Schuylkill River Trail, Cooper River Trail, East Coast Greenway and several others - represents a potential world-class amenity, reaching from the heart of downtown Philly and Camden into the surrounding counties and communities.

The trail system needs a unifying name to increase its visibility and reinforce the connections that exist between neighborhoods, businesses, jobs and recreation opportunities across the region without relying on a car. The William Penn Foundation and a group of local partners have organized a contest to create this important identity. Help us name Greater Philadelphia's trail network and you could win $250 - and the pride of knowing you created the name for one of our region's coolest amenities!

Submit your best ideas for a name that captures the potential of our connected network to NameOurTrailNetwork@gmail.com. The winning name, selected by the jury, will be announced in early January and the winner will receive a $250 cash prize. Name ideas should:

Reflect the entire trails region of southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey.
Respect existing trail names. An ideal name will complement and be used in tandem with existing trail names, such as as the Schuylkill River Trail and Cooper River Trail.
Promote the many benefits and experiences the trails provide, including transportation, recreation, accessibility and exploration.
Focus on the future and avoid over-used colonial imagery and historical clichés.

Please send your name ideas to NameOurTrailNetwork@gmail.com no later than midnight EST on December 16, 2011. In your entry, please include:

Suggested name for the Regional Trail Network
A reason for the suggested name (no more than 150 words)
Your Name
Phone Number
Email

Please visit http://www.dvrpc.org/NameOurTrailNetwork/ for additional information, trail system name examples and complete contest rules.

Minutes from Wednesday's Passyunk Safe Streets Meeting

2011-12-02T13:49:00.000-05:00

For those who were unable to make Wednesday's meeting on the nascent design project to make South Philly corridors safer for bicycling and walking, here are minutes from the meeting. And some action-packed Flickr photos.

Minutes after the jump.

Read more »

The Montgomery County Parks System Will Be Eliminated - Take Action Today

2011-12-02T11:13:00.001-05:00

Do you like bicycling on the Perkiomen and Schuylkill River Trails? Visiting the Elmwood Zoo?

Due to a $40 Million Dollar shortfall in the 2012 Budget, Montgomery County Commissioners are proposing to eliminate funding for the entire County Park system along with the County Planning Commission. In short, the County is looking to plug a budget hole by tearing apart the County's park infrastructure.

The County Commissioners have stated they do not want to raise taxes to balance the budget. We understand they have an extremely tough job in trying to find wise, but sustainable, solutions to reducing this deficit. CLOSING THE ENTIRE COUNTY PARK SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE ONE OF THE SOLUTIONS! This terrible idea would hurt both Montgomery County's quality of life and its economic activity.

No poppy fields in Lower Perkiomen Park next year. Parking lots will be closed and trails may be barricaded.

Is this the Montgomery County where we want to live and play?

The economic benefits of the Perkiomen and Schuylkill River Trails far outweigh their maintenance costs:

The Perkiomen Trail attracts 400,000 visitors a year who spend $4.4 million in goods and services. Yearly routine maintenance cost: $45,000 (source).
The Schuylkill River Trail boasts 800,000 visitors a year who spend $7.3 million (source).

The budget proposal also seeks to cut SEPTA bus routes which are subsidized by the County and eliminate the Planning Commission (the people who we are counting on to expand the County's trail network).

You can help, by letting our County Commissioners know how important it is to keep our County Parks, Trails and Historic Sites OPEN:

Send a letter today to the Montco Commissioners
Comment on the budget online,
Post your comments on Facebook and Twitter
Attend this hearing next week:

Proposed 2012 budget Public Hearing.

Wednesday, December 7 at 10:00 am.

Montgomery County Courthouse
Court Room A, Swede Street entrance

Swede St and W. Airy Ave

Norristown, PA

Your action is needed to prevent this terrible blow to the quality of life of everyone living in or near Montgomery County!

Early Holiday Trail Gift from PennDOT and Phila Streets Department

2011-12-02T08:29:00.012-05:00

Yes Fellow Cyclists, there is a Santa Claus....

Over the past two weeks, the famous 12 inch "hoagie" turn at the corner of Kelly Drive and Ridge Avenue has been undergoing a makeover; make that a supersizing.

What's the back story? The Complete the Trail Campaign led by the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia highlighted the hoagie turn as the proverbial brick wall that caused many less experienced cyclists to turn around and not continue along the Schuylkill River Trail to Manayunk. As part of its repair of the SRT between East Falls Bridge and Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia's Department of Parks and Recreation and Department of Public Property worked with the Streets Department and PennDOT to widen the turn by shifting the Kelly Drive curbs as part of the Gustine Lake project.

This is a huge improvement to the most critical gap in the Schuylkill River Trail. Although the tough section of trail between that corner and Main Street (called the Wissahickon Gateway) remains to be fixed, this effort on the part of Streets and PennDOT is a very welcome early holiday present.

On behalf of all trail users, a big Thank You to Penn DOT and Streets!!

Want To Make Spring Garden Street Better? Share Your Ideas This Tuesday

2011-12-01T11:07:00.001-05:00

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is taking on a project that's sure to interest Philly bicyclists: Spring Garden St. Specifically, how to make that street a better place to walk, bike, drive, take transit, and generally use.

Have an idea to make Spring Garden a better street? They and we want to hear it! (We're on the Steering Committee for the project, which we were told comes with big admiral's hats.)

What: Community Design Workshop for the Spring Garden Street Greenway
Date: Tuesday, December 6th
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: German Society of Philadelphia (611 Spring Garden St)
Free rsvp online: http://sgsg.eventbrite.com

This is your opportunity to voice your opinion and ideas, and influence the design for a new and improved Spring Garden Street.

Do You Know About Our Events Calendar? It Has Neat Events On It Like These...

2011-11-30T11:12:00.001-05:00

The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia's events calendar is a busy one, as there is always a lot happening in the region concerning bicycling, trails, active transportation, innovative urban planning, n' stuff. The basics of the bicycle haven't changed that much since it was invented, so we keep our internal calendar similarly old school. Our internal calendar as of this morning:

Sorry, I know there's some personal stuff mixed in there, too.

We want to keep you informed about these events as well, so we translate our calendar into a more modern format and post it online.

Read more »

TSTC Opens Up Crash Data, Reveals Most Dangerous Road In South Jersey

2011-11-30T11:00:00.000-05:00

The Tri-State Transportation Campaign has a released a new report that analyzes bicycle crashes in 8 South Jersey Counties from 2008-2010 to determine particularly dangerous roadways for cyclists. The report extracts NJDOT's public (but difficult to access) traffic crash data and geocodes all the bicycle crashes in the region on Google Maps.

The analysis shows that many crashes were clustered on specific roads, with certain roads the most dangerous in more than one county. US 30 was one of Atlantic and Camden Counties’ most dangerous roads (65 crashes in these counties combined). NJ 47 was one of Cape May, Cumberland and Gloucester Counties’ most dangerous roads (58 crashes in these counties combined).

Read more »

Passyunk Community Meeting Wednesday About Safer, Sweeter Streets

2011-11-28T15:23:00.000-05:00

You don't need to recognize this to attend the meeting, but
if you do, this is so up your alley it might as well BE your alley.

So this is a big project we're letting out of the bag slowly. As if the proverbial bag is stretched tightly around the project and we have to wiggle one side of the bag down at a time to get the project out without tearing the bag.

AN-E-how, you will be hearing more about this from us in the upcoming months. For now, know that we are working with the Community Design Collaborative to investigate creating innovative bicycle and pedestrian friendly corridors, beginning with South Philadelphia.

Last week PlanPhilly ran an article about this exciting collaboration, and this Wednesday you can join in!

Public Meeting

Wednesday, November 30th

6:00 - 8:00 PM

East Passyunk Crossing Offices (1729 S. 11th Street)

Join the Bicycle Coalition and the Community Design Collaborative for a lively discussion about making South Philadelphia streets safer for walking and biking. The best input for such plans comes from the residents, commuters, and business owners who use these streets daily. Join us and help shape this exciting innovative design project!

Below is a flyer for your perusal. Questions? Contact susan@bicyclecoalition.org for more information.

Seeking Philly Public School Parents for Focus Groups This Week

2011-11-28T11:18:00.001-05:00

Are you the parent of a Philadelphia public elementary school student? We'd like to talk to you!

We are hosting 5 focus groups this week at 5 different elementary schools around the city. The purpose is to talk to parents about their experiences and opinions concerning traffic safety around their students' schools.

Focus Group Dates and Locations:

Tuesday, Nov 29
1:30 - 3:30 pm
Frances E. Willard Elementary (1930 E. Elkhart St)

Wednesday, Nov 30
6:00 - 8:00 pm
George Sharswood Elementary (2300 S. 2nd St)

Thursday, Dec 1
10:00 am - noon
Anna L. Lingelbach Elementary (Johnson St. & Wayne Ave)

Thursday, Dec 1
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Edward T. Steel Elementary (4301 Wayne Ave)

Thursday, Dec 1
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
John Hancock Elementary (3700 Morrell Ave)

Each session is 90 minutes long. You don't have to be a parent at the school where the session is being held. Each focus group will have light food available, and a non-monetary token of our appreciation for your participation.

These conversations, being held in cooperation with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, will inform our Safe Routes Philly program's efforts to make travelling to and from Philly's schools safer and more fun for both parents and students.

If you are interested in participating, please e-mail or call Ben Cromie with the session you're planning on attending:

Benjamin Cromie

Research Fellow

Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia

215-242-9253 x308

ben@bicyclecoalition.org

New Jersey Transit - The Way To Go Without Your Bicycle.

2011-11-26T15:23:00.001-05:00

While other transit agencies are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to greatly expand bicycle access to their trains, NJ Transit has quietly changed its policy regarding bicycles on trains that will severely limit those wishing to take there bicycles with them on their next trip. NJ Transit is now restricting bicycle access to all of its stations that do not have a high-level platform, including the key Hoboken Terminal. That ends up putting nearly half of NJ Transit's 163 commuter rail train stations out of reach for cyclists looking to take their bikes. On some lines, a majority of stations are off-limits! The new restrictive part of its bicycle access policy is as follows:

Cyclists and Segway users can only board or alight trains at a station with a high-level or mini high-level platform. For safety reasons, cyclists are not permitted to board or alight trains at a low-level platform, including Hoboken Terminal.

Oddly enough the following language still appears in the policy:

Cyclists or Segway users must be able to lift their bicycle or Segway up and down stairs while boarding and detraining rail cars.

The complete updated train access policy can be found here.

Fortunately for us in the Delaware Valley this policy will not affect anyone unless you were dreaming of biking in Jack Nicholson's hometown while staying at the Spring Lake Inn or visiting Aunt Sadie in Paramus. All Atlantic City Line and 95% of the Northeast Corridor Line Stations have high platforms.

So why should you care? The mere existence of this policy indicates the NJ TRANSIT is not totally "on-board" with the concept of intermodal travel and puts the bike on rail access that we have enjoyed for the past 15 years on a slippery slope.

You can take action by sending this letter to James Simpson, Commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Transportation and Chairman of NJ TRANSIT. We encourage you to add your own personal comments.

Take Action

Portions of this post was republished with permission from the WalkBikeJersey blog.

Updates On Recent Bicyclist-Driver Crashes

2011-11-23T10:41:00.001-05:00

Thank you to the dozens of people who came out in the rain last night to show support for Mr. Gregory Loper's family. It was wet and cold, but comfort is not the purpose of such moments of solidarity and reflection.

Two ways you can help the family through this difficult time:

Send an e-mail to cyclingelves@gmail.com, and a volunteer will be in touch with you.
Contact your State Senators about HB 208, which would close a loophole which encourages drunk drivers to flee the scene of an accident. (Follow the link to learn more about this absurd legal incentive.)

ABC Philly reports the driver who struck Mr. Loper is being charged with "Homicide by Vehicle, Homicide by Vehicle while DUI, Accident Involving Death, Driving Under the Influence, Recklessly Endangering Another Person and related offenses."

In related news, yesterday a bike cop was hit by a car in Center City and hospitalized. Fortunately, the driver did not flee and newspaper reports suggest that the driver may not have been at fault. We extend our best wishes to the police officer for a clean bill of health. The officer is reported to be in stable condition without broken bones but is being checked for head injuries.

As we head into the busiest travel period of the year, please remember that the road is a dangerous place. If you are driving this weekend, be cognizant of the impact your vehicle can have on the lives of those around you. And whether you are in a vehicle, on a bike, or on foot, please be alert, sober, and respectful of your fellow travellers' equal right to arrive safely at their destinations.

11/23/11 12:02 PM EDIT: another bit of news on this sad topic. Last December, Mr. Randall Bratu was bicycling on Baltimore Ave in Upper Darby when he was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver. Last week, the driver pleaded guilty to four counts against him: homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, accident involving death or personal injury, accident involving damage to an attended vehicle, and driving while under the influence.

Working For Better Roads In Gloucester County

2011-11-22T19:00:00.000-05:00

On Friday November 18th, municipal officials and local volunteers conducted a bikeability and walkability study of dangerous conditions at 3 locations – Route 45 in Woodbury, Berkley Road in Mantua, and W. Mantua Avenue in Wenonah.

All good sidewalks must come to an end

The effort was headed by Washington Township resident Daria Volpe and Action Wheels co-owner Patty Woodworth, in coordination with the Bicycle Coalition and the Tri-State Transportation Campaign. The results of the survey will be used to support calls for Gloucester County and NJDOT to improve walking and biking conditions on area roads.

As Daria Volpe points out, "Intersections that once had a shoulder are being replaced with dedicated left and right turn lanes. I think it comes down to the fact that they just don't consider bike or foot traffic when planning these projects." It's the opposite of complete streets and everyone should have the opportunity to walk and bike no matter where they live.

Matthew Norris has a more complete article on the Mobilizing the Region Blog.

Candlelight Vigil Tonight at 5:30 PM

2011-11-22T14:28:00.001-05:00

A reminder that we are holding a candlelight vigil tonight for Mr. Gregory Loper, who was killed last Friday by an intoxicated hit-and-run driver on Lehigh Ave.

Time: Tonight, 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Location: Corner of Lehigh Ave and Jasper Streets, in Kensington
We will have a limited quantity of candles and umbrellas on hand.

We are all pedestrians, and many of us are frequently bicyclists. So it a personally resonant, as well as deeply saddening, tragedy whenever a pedestrian or cyclist is killed by a vehicle. Mr. Loper's story is especially terrible, however, as he was the father of eleven children. Those interested in ways they can help his widow and his family should send an e-mail to cyclingelves@gmail.com.

Results Of Our Dirtiest Bike Lane Survey (now with 4x the colorful graphs)

2011-11-22T08:30:00.000-05:00

We had 101 responses to our survey last week asking which Philadelphia bike lanes are most in need of a good old street sweeping. You can view the full poll results at the end of this post, but below are some select results (click to enlarge):

The "other responses" column was a smattering of lanes around the city, none of which cracked the top 10 (although Germantown Ave and Aramingo received multiple votes).

Read more »

Hit-and-Run Crashes and What You Can Do

2011-11-21T11:57:00.001-05:00

We want to step outside of the immediate tragedy of the bicyclist killed in the bike lane on Lehigh Ave and place the event in a larger context. Unfortunately, that context is a skewed legal system which perversely encourages drunk drivers to leave the scene after a crash.

Say what? Here's what:

Currently in Pennsylvania, a driver who fails to remain at the scene of a crash in which a victim dies commits a third degree felony. The minimum jail time for this is one (1) year.
However, a driver who causes the death of another person and is convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol commits a second degree felony, punishable by a minimum of three (3) years jail time.
This discrepancy in minimum jail time essentially incentivizes intoxicated drivers to flee the scene of the accident in order to sober up.

Whether any intoxicated drivers, having struck someone with their car, think about this incentive to flee isn't the point. The point is there is no good reason for the legal system to create such an incentive in the first place.

Fortunately, there is currently a bill in Harrisburg that seeks to correct this exact problem. HB 208 would close this loophole by increasing the hit-and-run minimum jail times to match that of a DUI fatality. The bill passed the House of Representatives on April 4, 2011. It was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on May 3rd. No further action has been taken.

Think Pennsylvania should not be encouraging intoxicated drivers to flee crash sites? Contact your State Senator and tell him or her that you support HB 208 and believe it should be brought out of committee. Following that link will allow you to send a letter your state senator, plus the leading 4 members of the Senate Judiciary Committee where the bill currently sits.

Note: We will be holding a candlelight vigil tomorrow (Tuesday) for Mr. Loper. Reminder and additional details tomorrow.

Read more »

Candlelight Vigil Tuesday For Kensington Hit and Run Victim

2011-11-20T13:48:00.001-05:00

We will hold a candlelight vigil Tuesday for Mr. Gregory Loper, the bicyclist killed Friday evening by an SUV while riding in a bike lane in Kensington. Details on the vigil:

Tuesday, November 22nd.
Corner of E. Lehigh Ave and Jasper Street, Philadelphia PA.
5:30 - 6:30 pm.
We will install a ghost bike as a memorial to Mr. Loper.
A limited number of candles will available.

NBC10 Philly has more information about the accident and the victim. Some details:

The victim was Gregory Loper, a 49-year old father of 11.
The 22-year old driver, Brett Truskin, had been released from custody earlier that day after being charged with a DUI this past Wednesday.
The driver also struck an occupied vehicle. The driver of that occupied vehicle was reported to be in the hospital in stable condition.

Our hearts, prayers, and sympathy are extended to the family and friends of Mr. Loper, and we are reminded yet again of the toll hit-and-run drivers take on pedestrians and bicyclists.

Bicyclists Struck and Killed By Out of Control Motorist in Kensington

2011-11-19T08:57:00.000-05:00

An unidentified bicyclist was killed in the bike lane on the 1900 Block of East Lehigh Avenue by a driver who struck four other vehicles early Friday evening. After the carnage the motorist tried to get away on foot but was caught and held down by witnesses.

According to CBS 3 the motorist has been charged with DUI and vehicular homicide.The bicyclist was the first fatality in Philadelphia that was reported by the media this year although we have observed over time that only about half of the fatal bike crashes in the City actually make the news.

The CBS 3 video includes a very moving account from witness Nicole Gerner and horrible images of the bike broken into several pieces, indicative of the speed at which the crazed motorist was travelling.

Our condolences to the family of the victim and our thanks go out to the Good Samaritans who tried to help the victim and prevented the offender from getting away.

View PA/NJ Bicycle Crashes 2011-2012 in a larger map

UPDATE 11-20-11 - The Offending Drivers has been identified as Brett Truskin, a 22-year-old from Ivyland, Pa. The ID of the victim has still not been released.

Oh, By The Way, 13th Street Bike Lane Will Be Permanent

2011-11-18T12:02:00.001-05:00

An excerpt from a report issued from the Mayor's Office of Transportation and Utilities (MOTU) concerning the 13th Street bike lane:

Based on the findings, which indicated that the pilot bike lane on 13th Street was not resulting in substantial impacts to motor vehicle traffic and was successfully attracting bicyclists, the Streets Department and the Mayor’s Office of Transportation have decided to make the bike lane on 13th Street permanent.

The full report is available for reading here. MOTU found that average vehicle speeds, vehicle volume, and vehicle delay at lights on 13th street were not significantly changed by the pilot bike lane. City cameras found that the majority of delay in vehicle queuing to make turns is caused by vehicle-pedestrian interactions, not the bike lane.

The report also supports our own (kind of obvious, but you know how some folks are) findings that adding a bike lane significantly increases bike traffic on that street:

above graph taken from MOTU report also linked above

Interestingly, a quick search found only CBS Philly and Philebrity covering this news. Of course, the more controversial 10th Street bike lane will probably draw more attention. But we have come a long way when MOTU can announce the permanent implementation of a Center City bike lane, and it causes so little ruckus.

Ask Your PA Senator to Support Safe Bike Passing!

2011-11-17T11:54:00.016-05:00

Every bicyclist knows how it feels to have a car, truck or bus pass too close for comfort or suddenly turn right into one's path. Between 8-12% of bicycle crashes are due to motorists misjudging the space required to pass a bicyclist and turning into the path of an approaching bicyclist. To make streets and roads safer, at least 15 states have passed "safe passing bills" to amend their motor vehicle codes to provide bicyclists the protection of law from passing motor vehicles.

There is now an opportunity for you to take action to urge passage of a Pennsylvania safe passing law.

The lack of a safe passing bill is one reason Pennsylvania only rated 25th for bicycle friendliness by the League of American Bicyclists. PA's legislative grade was a C.

Our friends at PA Walks and Bikes have let us know that at long last, Pennsylvania's House of Representatives recently passed its own 4 foot safe passing bill, HB170 .

HB 170 will amend PA's motor vehicle code to provide the following protections:

Every car that passes a bike must give a minimum of 4-feet of clearance
It will be against the law for a motor vehicle driver to pass a bicyclist and then veer sharply in front of forcing you to jam on your brakes to avoid injury
It will be legal to ride a bike on the public road at less than the minimum speed
It will be legal for a driver to pass a bicyclist when it is safe to do so by crossing over a double line

It's now up to the Pennsylvania Senate to pass HB170 with no amendments. If you are a Pennsylvania resident, please send a letter today to your state senator and follow up with a phone call to their office. Take action to help make Pennsylvania's roads safer for bicycling.

Vote For Philly's Dirtiest Bike Lanes!

2011-11-16T11:45:00.000-05:00

Bike lanes are, of course, wonderful. But like any street space, they gather debris. Leaves, broken glass, Eagles ticket stubs angrily thrown from car windows, and other detritus can make bike lanes difficult to navigate or downright dangerous.

We want to know your experience with Philadelphia's bike lane cleanliness. We've created a short survey designed to gather Philly bicyclists' experiences about our (existing) bike lanes.

Fill out the 10-question survey here.

We will use your answers to inform our advocacy work, and we'll publish the answers next week. Enter your e-mail address if you wish at the end, and three such respondents will win one of our totally sweet orange I Bike PHL t-shirts.

Correction - Philadelphia Cycling Committee Meeting Cancelled. Learn about the Reading Viaduct instead.

2011-11-15T12:09:00.001-05:00

Tonight's Philadelphia Cycling Committee Meeting will not be held in order for us to attend a presentation at the Academy of Natural Sciences - Philadelphia's Reading Viaduct: An Elevated Park Connecting Neighborhoods.

Learn about the potential of converting an old elevated rail line into a park and perhaps a bikeway. Similar projects including Manhattan's High Line and La Promenade Plantee in Paris feature landscaped walking paths that exclude bicycle use.

The doors open at 6PM for refreshments with the presentations beginning at 6:30.

Philadelphia Cycling Committee Meeting Tonight

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

The next monthly Philadelphia City Cycling Committee will be at the Bicycle Coalition Office, 1500 Walnut Street, Suite 305, Tuesday, November, 15th 2011 at 6:30 - 8:00 PM (6:00 PM Pizza and Refreshments).

On the agenda for Tonight's meeting are updates on the 10th and 13th Street Pilot Bike Lanes, Spring Garden Street Greenway Project, Safe Streets for Healthy Neighborhoods, the Philadelphia Bicycle Navigational Signage Plan, Delaware River Trail Projects and a sneak peak of the Regional Trails Website.

Training Teachers Helps Safe Routes Philly Broaden Its Reach

2011-11-14T14:30:00.001-05:00

Our Safe Routes Philly program promotes walking and biking as fun, healthy forms of transportation in Philadelphia's elementary schools. While we hold some school assemblies, we work primarily on a train-the-trainer model, providing teachers with free lessons, training, and resources. Training teachers to implement our pedestrian and bicycling safety lessons multiplies the impact our Community Representatives have in Philadelphia schools, creating a sustainable program and reaching more students without our direct involvement.

One of the most effective ways to get our programming into teachers' hands is through professional development workshops. Bringing teachers together with our Community Representatives allows teachers to ask questions, learn about our programming in a collaborative environment, and see how Safe Routes Philly fits into their respective classroom or gym.

Last year we held 7 professional development events in cooperation with the School District of Philadelphia. Last week, we held our first one of this academic year at Northeast High School during the School District of Philadelphia's Health and PE in-service day.

Megan Rosenbach leads a workshop on running a bicycle safety lesson

We ran two one-hour workshops, in which a combined total of 31 teachers participated. Megan Rosenbach, one of our Community Representatives, led the participating teachers through the PE lesson plans we've developed for teaching pedestrian safety (2nd grade) and bicycling safety (5th grade). Some teachers had already taught our lessons this year, while others had not heard of our program and came away with new lessons and materials. In all, it was an extremely effective morning, providing resources and training to 31 teachers who are now equipped to bring valuable pedestrian and bicycling safety lessons directly to their students.

If you would like to learn more about our Safe Routes Philly program, contact a Community Representative.

New Park and Trailhead Coming to Northeast Philly

2011-11-14T12:23:00.001-05:00

Construction is about to begin on a tiny but important piece of the Delaware Riverfront Greenway in Northeast Philadelphia. The Delaware River City Corporation is creating a riverfront park on 4.5 acres of land immediately south of the Tacony Palmyra Bridge. Located in front of the Lardner’s Point Pump Station, the park will be known as Lardner's Point Park.

Lardner's Point Park will act as a gateway and trailhead for the Delaware Riverfront Greenway (an 11-mile section of the East Coast Greenway stretching from Allegheny Ave to Bucks County). The park will feature a river overlook and fishing pier, riparian edge restoration, new tidal wetlands, walking trails, a drinking fountain, and a restored riverbank forest area for picnicking and passive recreational activities.

Construction is supposed to be completed in May 2012. A groundbreaking ceremony will be held on November 21st at 9:00 AM.

A simple layout of Lardner's Point Park. The East Coast Greenway is represented by the solid black stripe across the park and the Tacony Palmyra Bridge footprint is represented by the faint parallel lines extending into the Delaware River.

Route 82 Bike Lane Plan Moves Forward

2011-11-10T21:59:00.001-05:00

According to the Chester County Daily Local East Marlborough Township Officials have agreed to continue funding the final design of 1.1 miles bike lanes and 2 miles of sidewalk along Route 82 in the Unionville section of the Township.

While an isolated bike lane through a rural township might not seem like a priority, Route 82 hosts a large regional school complex along with several developments on the west side of the road. At the north end of the project the bike lane will terminate at a modern roundabout. Roundabouts are rare in Pennsylvania but these smaller cousins of the NJ traffic circle slow down cars, improve pedestrian safety and produce better traffic flows than signalized intersections. Route 82 may be seen as a model for complete streets in suburban/rural areas.

There are still many hurdles to clear. The region has a huge backlog (>$80 million) of bicycle and pedestrian projects that have been stuck in various stages of development for many reasons. And it remains to be seen if PENNDOT will require a Bicycle Occupancy Permit (BOP), which mandates that municipalities assume liability and maintenance of bike lanes on state roads. Let's keep our fingers crossed and if you live East Marlborough thank your Board of Supervisors for keeping this project alive.

View Route 82 Bike Lane Project in a larger map

Details on Saturday's Memorial Service for Rob Stuart

2011-11-09T16:42:00.001-05:00

For those who wish to attend Rob Stuart's memorial service, here are details:

Memorial Service
Saturday, November 12
3:00 PM
Trinity Memorial Church (shown on Google Maps as Trinity Center for Urban Life)
2212 Spruce Street, Philadelphia PA

Reception to follow at First Presbyterian Church at 21st and Walnut Streets.

Memorial Bicycle Ride
All are welcome to join Bicycle Coalition staff as we bike to the service from the Race Street entrance to the Schuylkill River Trail. The bike ride leaves at 2:20 pm on Saturday.

Getting to Trinity Memorial Church:
20 minute walk from 30th Street Station (Amtrak and SEPTA)
Bicycle rack will be made available from Neighborhood Bike Works (no valet parking)
SEPTA bus #7 and 12
Auto parking available at Walnut Bridge Parking & Storage (200 S. 24th Street) or Patriot Parking Inc (2102 Sansom Street)

Remember Your Trail Etiquette

2011-11-08T15:45:00.000-05:00

Trail Etiquette sign from the
Cynwyd Heritage Trail

If you're reading this post, you probably already know that the Greater Philadelphia Region has some amazing trails for biking, running and walking. The most recent addition to our regional treasure trove is the Cynwyd Heritage Trail.

If you know that, then you also know that our trails are often crowded with others who also want to take advantage of these great resources. We all need to make sure everyone is able to have an enjoyable - and safe! - trail experience by following these tips for Trail Etiquette:

Etiquette for Cyclists

Be courteous- trails are for all users!
Keep right (except to pass)
Ring a bell or politely call out, "On your left!" when passing
Give ample room when passing, even if that involves slowing down until that is possible
Keep your speed down, enjoy the view, and keep an eye out for posted speed limits
Stay single file during busy times
Yield right-of-way to other trail users - remember that runners and pedestrians are more vulnerable trail users

Etiquette for All Users

Abide by posted trail signs
Keep right, walk no more than two abreast
Stay alert - faster trail users need to pass
When stopped, step off the trail
Keep dogs on a leash and clean up after your dog
Share the trail; be considerate of all users

Want to learn more or pass information along to your friends and family? Here is a copy of a Trail Etiquette handout you can download or print.

What are some other tips for etiquette that you think are important?

Results of the 13th Street Bike Lane Pilot Study: Bike Lanes Should Remain

2011-11-08T14:16:00.001-05:00

Last Wednesday, the Mayor's Office of Transportation and Utilities presented the results of the 13th Street bike lane pilot project. The City presented its findings to a quiet room at the Gershman Y, the media circus and outrage that surrounded the Spruce and Pine bike lane public meetings noticeably absent.

The results of the test were overwhelmingly positive. A striking statistic announced at the meeting: bicycles make up 23% of the AM rush hour traffic on 13th at Walnut Street. The City also reported on several issues which need addressing. The main one is the intersection at Market Street, which is problematic due to the mixture of the bike lane, right turns, and the layover location for the #124 and #125 express buses. The City's solution will be to not mark the bike lane through this intersection. We recommended painting sharrows to guide cyclists and drivers through that complicated intersection.

13th Street is currently milled and awaiting resurfacing later this week, with line painting expected to take place shortly thereafter. While there is no final word on the permanence of the 13th Street bike lane, the report from the pilot recommends that the bike lane remain.

Results of 13th Street Bike Lane Pilot Study

Support Bike Lanes By Shopping Chinatown

2011-11-07T16:55:00.000-05:00

And there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth...

This Saturday was an important turning point in the ongoing conversation about bicycling's role in Philadelphia. On Saturday, the Streets Department laid down the 10th Street pilot bike lane between Spring Garden and Market Street. This finishes the 10th Street lane between Spring Garden and Lombard, giving bicyclists a much-needed southbound route through Center City.

Why is Saturday important? Because there is now a bike lane through Chinatown. Until Saturday, there was only a plan for a bike lane through Chinatown. The difference? Real bike lanes generate data (imaginary bike lanes generate rage). The City will evaluate the lane over the next few months to determine its effectiveness as a bike route and its impact upon traffic flow.

What can you, Philadelphia bicyclists, do? You can show your support for such bike lanes by eating and shopping in Chinatown. The City will be watching for the hypothetical traffic disaster predicted by armchair traffic engineers, but Chinatown business owners will be studying numbers as well. Much of the opposition to the lane is based on the unfounded belief that removing a car lane is bad for business. Studies have found the opposite to be true. Should Chinatown businesses grow due to the bike lane, that will be an incredibly powerful motivator for future improvements in bicycling infrastructure.

Chinatown's many retail stores and (delicious) restaurants are just as easy to visit by bicycle as by car (probably easier). The neighborhood around Chinatown already has one of the highest bicycling rates in Philadelphia. We are optimistic. So patronize Chinatown by bicycle and prove that bicyclists are consumers not to be overlooked. The City just made it much more convenient for you to do so.

Ben Franklin Bridge North Walkway Open Nov. 7 - 9

2011-11-06T20:22:00.000-05:00

The South Walkway of the Ben Franklin will closed from Monday November 7th to Wednesday November 9th. The North Walkway will be open during the closure. The 5th Street tunnel in Camden is still closed for renovation use the 6th Street Tunnel or 3rd Street if you want to get south of the bridge.

Walkway hours are 6AM to 8PM.

View North Walkway Alternate Routes to Downtown Camden in a larger map

Montgomery Co. Commissioner Candidates Shapiro/Richards's Responses to Our Bicycling Questionnaire

2011-11-04T17:00:00.001-04:00

Here are the responses to our bicycling-issues questionnaire from the Josh Shapiro/Leslie Richards campaign for Montgomery County Commissioner. Their answers follow each bolded question.

Montgomery CountyCommissioner Candidate Questionnaire - October 2011

Over the last decade, significant numbers of residents in suburbanPhiladelphia have switched over to using their bike to commute to work. Between 2000 and 2009, the percentage of bikecommuters grew by 488% in Chester County, 126% in Delaware County, 84% inMontgomery County and 67% in Bucks.

Despite this growth, bicycle facilities in these counties havelagged behind Philadelphia. An onerousPennDOT regulation called the Bicycle Occupancy Permit (BOP) causesmunicipalities to be unwilling to agree to allow bike lanes on stateroads. Consequently, there are only 14miles of bike lanes in the four counties, as opposed to over 200 inPhiladelphia. The Bicycle Coalition is working to remove this regulatoryobstacle to help promote the development of more bicycle facilities in suburbancounties.

1. Would you support completing the region’s Trail Network by funding projects that would complete the Schuylkill River Trail and Cross County Trail in Montgomery County?

Absolutely, and we would add the Chester Valley Trail to that list as well. The current budget situation in Montgomery County will present challenges, but one of the most recognizable and most appreciated of county services in Montgomery County is the trail system. As we will with many different issues, we will seek innovative ways to find the dollars necessary to keep these projects moving forward, including public/private partnerships. In Montgomery County the Schuylkill River Trail is nearly complete with two relatively small sections in the Pottstown areas that need to be completed. That together with a path along the Mont Clare Canal will essentially finish the trail in Montgomery County.

We believe the Chester Valley Trail is another important project that due to the high population and commercial areas it traverses. Chester County is making steady progress on its section of the trial, and Montgomery County has acquired much of the right of way necessary to complete the project and design work is underway.

Unfortunately, the Cross County Trail has been hobbled by a series of problems, not the least of which is the lack of cooperation from Norfolk and Southern Railroad. Planners have now identified much of the alternate routing necessary, but a significant amount of money is still needed to complete the infrastructure. Nevertheless, we are committed to finding ways to raise the money necessary to complete this critically important trail.

Many of these projects depend upon cooperation between different levels of government. A Shapiro Richards administration will have one senior level person in the commissioners responsible for improving communications with Members of Congress, county legislators and local municipalities to help ensure that opportunities for legislation and funding are not squandered. Where appropriate, our administration will work with organizations like the Bicycle Coalition to coordinate advocacy efforts.

2. Would you support devoting more federal and state transportation funds to bicycle and pedestrian projects?

Yes.

3. Would you support implementation the 1995 Montgomery County bicycle/pedestrian plan through PennDOT’s resurfacing projects?

Yes, we would. PennDOT has presented major problems in this area due to the BOP. This, as you explain in your letter, has made it very difficult to implement bike lanes throughout the suburbs. We would want to make sure that the 1995 is up-to-date, but we certainly support implementing the plan, and would use our legislative advocacy person in the commissioners’ office to convince PennDOT to revise its BOP policy and be more bicycle-friendly.

NOTE 1: One other point we would like to make is that it is our intention to implement a policy that will make it more attractive for county employees to commute to work by bike.

NOTE 2: Leslie Richards is a senior project manager at a woman-owned civil engineering firm, and she is well aware of the advantages of providing a bicycle-friendly environment. The majority of her bridge projects include pedestrian/bicycle walkways. On one of her projects, bicyclists were provided a shuttle service during construction so that they could safely cross the bridge while the pedestrian/bicycle walkway was being rehabilitated.

Delaware Co. Council Candidate Jayne Young's Responses to Our Bicycling Questionnaire

2011-11-04T15:00:00.001-04:00

Here are Jayne Young's responses to our bicycling-issues questionnaire. She is running for Delaware County Council. Her answers are underlined.

Delaware County Council Candidate Questionnaire - October 2011

Over the last decade, significant numbers of residents in suburban Philadelphia have switched over to using their bike to commute to work. Between 2000 and 2009, the percentage of bike commuters grew by 488% in Chester County, 126% in Delaware County, 84% in Montgomery County and 67% in Bucks.

Despite this growth, bicycle facilities in these counties have lagged behind in Philadelphia. An onerous PennDOT regulation called the Bicycle Occupancy Permit (BOP) causes municipalities to be unwilling to agree to allow bike lanes on state roads. Consequently, there are only 14 miles of bike lanes in the four counties, as opposed to over 200 in Philadelphia. The Bicycle Coalition is working to remove this regulatory obstacle to help promote the development of more bicycle facilities in suburban counties.

1. Would you support completing the region’s Trail Network by funding projects that would complete the East Coast Greenway and the Chester Creek Trail in Delaware County and study the Valley Forge to Heinz Refuge Trail?

Yes. I am a proponent of bicycle trails and have participated in the planning and development of recreational bike and pedestrian trails. We have added sharrows to some roads to show this support of biking. I come from a place where pedestrian and bike travel are encouraged. Lansdowne is committed to improving these forms of transportation. Our part of the county is dense and car travel often results in traffic congestion. Encouraging bike travel with appropriate street markings and handy bike racks could have a positive impact not only on the environment and health of participants but on the economic revitalization effort as well. When people bicycle or walk throughout the county they actually see things motorists miss. Businesses would benefit from increased bike and pedestrian travel through increased visibility. I would support duplicating Lansdowne’s effort throughout the county where ever appropriate. The value of multi modal travel much exceeds any potential liability foreshadowed by the Bicycle Occupancy Permit.( a frivolous piece of legislation)

2. Would you support devoting more federal and state transportation funds to bicycle and pedestrian projects?

Absolutely, pedestrian and bike travel improvements will positively impact the environment and the economy. I believe in the concept of “Complete the Streets”. All forms of transportation should be able to share our streets. Every effort should be made to offer alternatives where appropriate and where it can be done in a safe manner. Supporting multi modal transportation takes into account the variety of transportation methods available and encourages better use of resources. PennDot administers the federal funding for the “Safe Routes to Schools” program. Any infrastructure improvement that makes it safer for children to walk or bike to school improves conditions for all citizens. As a member of County Council I would encourage our many school districts to explore this funding source to make bike and pedestrian travel safer for all.

3. Would you support implementing the Delaware County bicycle plan through PennDOT’s resurfacing projects?

Yes. When projects from the Transportation Improvement Plan come to the shovel ready stage is the time to step in and include bicycle traffic. Transportation Enhancement funding should sought for bicycle/ pedestrian projects Bicycle and pedestrian travel should be encouraged through the creation of safe trails. The Delco Bicycle Plan is an achievable project with the support of municipal and county decision makers committed to this vision. The visual promotion of bike and pedestrian travel will do much to encourage others to adopt those means of travel when ever they can. Reduced car congestion is just one outcome; overall improvement of public health would also be a benefit. County Council is in a position to encourage municipal partnerships with PennDot. Any resurfacing projects scheduled in the county should factor in the bicycle plan to make the best use of resources.

Delaware Co. Council Candidate Keith Collins's Responses to Our Bicycling Questionnaire

2011-11-04T09:30:00.001-04:00

Here are Keith Collins's responses to our bicycling-issues questionnaire. He is running for Delaware County Council. His answers are underlined.

Delaware County CouncilCandidate Questionnaire - October 2011

Despite this growth, bicycle facilities in these counties havelagged behind in Philadelphia. Anonerous PennDOT regulation called the Bicycle Occupancy Permit (BOP) causesmunicipalities to be unwilling to agree to allow bike lanes on stateroads. Consequently, there are only 14miles of bike lanes in the four counties, as opposed to over 200 inPhiladelphia. The Bicycle Coalition isworking to remove this regulatory obstacle to help promote the development ofmore bicycle facilities in suburban counties.

As a marathon runner and cyclist I know the value both personally and environmentally to expanding efforts to produce more bike friendly roads and trails. As a candidate for Delaware County Council I can state without reservation that I support these efforts.

2. Would you support devoting more federal and state transportation funds to bicycle and pedestrian projects?

Without question I support this initiative.

3. Would you support implementing the Delaware County bicycle plan through PennDOT’s resurfacing projects?

Without question yes I support this proposal.

Chester Co. Commissioner Terence Farrell's Responses to Our Bicycling Questionnaire

2011-11-03T20:00:00.001-04:00

Below is Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell's response to our questionnaire about bicycling-related issues. He is running for re-election. His answers are underlined below.

Chester CountyCommissioner Candidate Questionnaire - October 2011

Despite this growth, bicycle facilities in these counties havelagged behind in Philadelphia. Anonerous PennDOT regulation called the Bicycle Occupancy Permit (BOP) causesmunicipalities to be unwilling to agree to allow bike lanes on stateroads. Consequently, there are only 14miles of bike lanes in the four counties, as opposed to over 200 inPhiladelphia. The Bicycle Coalition isworking to remove this regulatory obstacle to help promote the development ofmore bicycle facilities in suburban counties.

1. Would you support completing the region's Trail Network by funding projects that would complete the Chester Valley Trail and Schuylkill River Trail in Chester County?

As a Chester County Commissioner, I have supported funding for the Chester Valley and Schuylkill River Trails, even when PennDOT did not. Going forward, I plan to continue to support funding for these trails to the best of the county's financial ability.

2. Would you support devoting more federal and state transportation funds to bicycle and pedestrian projects?

If Washington and Harrisburg are able to forward more funding for these projects, I would be supportive of it.

3. Would you support funding a Countywidebicycle plan and its implementation through PennDOT resurfacing projects?

I would consider such a plan, and I would like to hear more details.

Philadelphia Councilman Bill Greenlee's Response to Our Bicycling Questionnaire

2011-11-03T16:30:00.001-04:00

Here are Philadelphia City Councilman Bill Greenlee's responses to our bicycling-issues questionnaire. His answers are underlined.

1. Would you supportthe installation of innovative infrastructure such as buffered bike lanes, likethose on Spruce and Pine, on a select number of streets to create a citywidebicycle network that is safe and inviting to ride for those from age 8 to 80?

The Bicycle Coalition has documentedincreases in bicycling significantly when buffered bike lanes were installed onSpruce, Pine, 13^th and 10^th Streets. In addition, sidewalk riding and wrong wayriding decreased. Buffered bike lanes onSpruce and Pine have also calmed traffic, reducing significant crashes by 45%.

I support bike lanes when they are safe and where communities are directly involved in the process. I believe there are streets where bike lanes are not safe for bikers, pedestrians and drivers. For example, at least part of 10th Street (in Chinatown) would appear not to be safe for such lanes.

2. Would you support reforming theCity's Traffic code to make it conform with state traffic laws and nationalbest practices regarding bicyclists?

Several sections of the City’sTraffic Code are out of date and do not comply with state traffic laws. Theyinclude a prohibition of bicycles in the street if there is a sidepathavailable, a prohibition of two people riding abreast, and no languageprotecting cyclists if hit by a car door that is opened in the travel lane.

I would be willing to discuss the changes in the traffic code to conform to state law where necessary.

3. Would you support the City ofPhiladelphia issuing a Request for Proposals for a Public Bike Share systemwithin the first year of your term?

Many other east coast cities haveeither started, signed contracts or issued Request for Proposals (RFPs) forpublic bike share programs, including New York City, Washington DC, Baltimoreand Boston. The City of Philadelphia could issue a RFP to invite bikeshare operators to propose how they would finance and operate a bike sharesystem in Philly.

I support the bike share program and would support the city issuing an RFP for a bike operator for a bike share program in Philadelphia.

4. Would you support creating a Task Force to review theCity's annual resurfacing and paving plans to identify opportunities to makeimprovements for bicyclists, pedestrians and transit riders?

The City’s annual resurfacingprogram is the best opportunity to install new bike lanes and other treatmentsto make streets complete and safer for all users. The Pedestrian/Bicycle Plan recommends reconveningthe Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Task Force to monitor progress on theimplementation of physical improvements to city streets and sidewalks.

I would support the creation of a task force where affected communities members would serve and be engaged in the process In addition to the “experts” to determine the safety of such resurfacing and paving plans.

5. Would you support increasing the Streets Department’sbudget in order to add engineering staff to make our streets safer for allusers and more convenient for bicyclists, pedestrians and transit riders?

The Transportation EngineeringDivision of the Streets Department has suffered considerable budget cuts andloss of staff over the past fifteen years. Additional engineering resources are needed to develop plans to conducttraffic studies and design innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities forPhiladelphia’s streets.

I would not commit to supporting increased funding for any departmental budget under the present economic climate until we look at the city budget as a whole.

6. Would you support installation of more red light cameras to increasesafety at more intersections in Philadelphia?

I support more red light camera where appropriate and if the funding is available. I believe bicyclist should also abide by red light regulations.

7. Wouldyou support all-day closures of Martin Luther King Drive to through traffic,while continuing to allow auto access to the upper drive parking areas?
Theopening of the Schuylkill Trail from Locust Street to Martin Luther King(formerly West River) Drive has created a new and unique opportunity to makethe west bank of the Schuylkill River a six-mile recreation corridor onweekends between April and October. Tragically, the decision made in 1997 tore-open the lower half of the road to automotive traffic after Noon hasresulted in a number of crashes at Sweet Briar Road. A five-year-old child waskilled in 2006 when a reckless driver sped through the gate at Sweet Briar.Closing the gate at the Art Museum from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. would ensure that atleast one portion of the park’s road system is reserved for recreation onweekends.

I am open to discussing the pros and cons of extending MLK Drive closures.

Political Candidates' Answers to Our Bicycling Survey

2011-11-03T13:25:00.003-04:00

Ahead of next week's elections, we mailed candidates a questionnaire asking them about their position on various bicycling-related issues (relevant to their region). We sent surveys to all candidates entered in the following races:

Philadelphia Mayor
Philadelphia City Council
Bucks County Commissioner
Chester County Commissioner
Delaware County Council
Montgomery County Commissioner

Over the next few days, we will post the responses we've received. First off is Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter's response to our questionnaire (his responses are underlined):

Rand Paul's Attack On Bike/Ped Funding Defeated In Senate

2011-11-02T13:30:00.000-04:00

They attacked again, and again safety and forward thinking prevailed.

Senator Rand Paul (R-Cars)'s plan to scrap the Transportation Enhancements program was defeated Tuesday by a 60-38 vote. Thank you to everyone who contacted your senators and urged them to vote against this backward-thinking, regressive bill.

Unfortunately, this will likely not be the last time members of Congress attack federal funding for bicycling and pedestrian improvements. We will keep you informed so you can help us drag members of Congress, kicking and screaming, into a future where pedestrians and bicyclists are safer.

The Boston Globe has an article about the vote, and some of the misinformation which was fueling arguments for ending the Transportation Enhancements program.

The League of American Bicyclists posted a recap and includes who voted how

[Update: 4:15 pm: A previous version of this post stated that Pennsylvania's two senators voted along party lines. Sen. Casey voted against the measure, and Sen. Toomey voted for it. Party lines, however, is an inaccurate method of recapping the vote. While no Democrats or Independents voted in favor of the bill, seven Republicans and one Independent voted against it. ~NM]