This weekend, The International Herald Tribune had a good article about efforts across the world to increase cycling — from London to Bogota (pictured) to Chicago.
To wit: In Chicago, Richard Daley, another charismatic mayor who is an avid cyclist, has given that city the most active cycling program among major U.S. cities.
I don’t know if they don’t consider Portland a “major U.S. city,” but I suppose it’s another reminder that we have to try even harder.
Read the article and post your thoughts here.
I’m glad the IHT picked up on the George Bush irony. While I love that he’s a cyclist, he’s obviously more of the recreational, health/fitness mindset. That’s great, but to really make strides for bikes in the US we (he) must start seeing bikes as a viable transportation choice that deserves equitable consideration in the transportation budget and national psyche.
That Penalosa guy from Bogota is my hero. He has guts and he believed in his vision of livability so much that he pushed through the skepticism to make great gains.
I think this article also makes it clear that the single most important thing bike advocates can do is to work on political partnerships at the highest levels.
Fun programs that promote bike use are needed, but getting high-level decision makers to connect the dots (like Penalosa has done) should be priority #1.
And about Chicago. I agree with the IHT that Portland is definitely not a “major U.S. city”. Not yet at least. And out of all major cities, Chicago is definitely doing the best job…but having a far-reaching Cycle policy plan is just words on paper. They have their work cut out for them!
Jessica,
Thanks for the post of this interesting and informative article.
JB