I feel like I've heard or read that phrase 200 times in the last few months as the media takes note of the recent rise in bike commuting. Articles from news sources around the country confirm that sales of bikes (particularly those well-suited for utility cycling), commuting accessories and maintenance are up. Even the Today Show gave 3 minutes to bike commuting a couple weeks ago.
The news coverage certainly can't hurt. Reporting about people adding utility cycling to their lives, whether to work or to the store, will serve to de-marginalize utility cycling. And the increase in ridership will do the same as motorists will be more likely to empathize with a cycling community that now includes their neighbor, co-worker, fellow parishoner or family member. This improved perception of cyclists and utility cycling can lead to a greater committment by governments to fund projects that support human-powered transportation options. We may very well be at the edge of a really wonderful positive feedback loop.
Here are a few references in case you've missed the buzz:
Monday, June 16, 2008
Sunday, June 15, 2008
What a pedestrian/bicycle bridge on the East Coast Greenway looks like
On a recent trip, I came across this pedestrian/bicycle bridge on a northern section of the East Coast Greenway. As we in Durham consider the future of our own pedestrian/bicycle bridge over the Greenway (American Tobacco Trail Phase E), I figured it'd be relevant to snap a few photos.
This bridge goes over an entry ramp to US-1 which means its has far less traffic than the section of I-40 where the American Tobacco Trail will cross. The only thing I can tell you that isn't captured in the photos is that its pretty loud. I was surprised. If this small bridge is any indication of what the experience crossing the ATT Phase E bridge will be, I don't think we need to be building a bridge on which someone will want to meander or stop for a break. We'll want this to be a bridge the gets people from point A to point B safely and effectively and provides them pleasant areas on either side.
This bridge goes over an entry ramp to US-1 which means its has far less traffic than the section of I-40 where the American Tobacco Trail will cross. The only thing I can tell you that isn't captured in the photos is that its pretty loud. I was surprised. If this small bridge is any indication of what the experience crossing the ATT Phase E bridge will be, I don't think we need to be building a bridge on which someone will want to meander or stop for a break. We'll want this to be a bridge the gets people from point A to point B safely and effectively and provides them pleasant areas on either side.
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