The Bike Denver Story
Mission
BikeDenver is Denver’s bicycle advocacy organization and the leading non-profit to promote and encourage bicycling as an energy efficient, non-polluting, healthy and enjoyable transportation alternative in and around Denver.
History
BikeDenver was formed at a community meeting hosted by Colorado’s statewide bicycle advocacy organization in 2001. A group of Denver-based bicyclists responded to the identified need for a Denver-focused advocacy group to improve conditions and access for bicycling and increase the number of people who bike in the Denver community. The group formed under the name BikeDenver, and became the voice for resident and community needs.
About BikeDenver
BikeDenver is a grassroots organization representing the needs of Denver residents and made up of representatives from diverse backgrounds and professions all with the desire to create a healthier outdoor environment for residents. The organization is often the first point of contact for new residents looking for resources, information, education and events around biking in Denver. BikeDenver’s impact results in more and safer commuter lanes, better bicycle access, convenient bike parking, and bicycle-friendly legislation. These outcomes lead to increased ridership and awareness around the health, environmental and economic benefits of bicycling.
BikeDenver’s organizational goals are focused into two areas:
- Advocacy to affect change to policy and practices
- Physical infrastructure and community engagement to promote bicycling to wide audiences
As advocates, BikeDenver collaborates with the City and County of Denver, priority stakeholders, government and elected officials and interested parties to represent citizen involvement and create and improve policy and infrastructure that supports increased, and safe bicycling. This work results in protecting people who bike and walk while also promoting biking as a fun, safe and accessible way to commute in and around Denver. Community engagement includes hosting citywide events that provide awareness around bike safety while also encouraging more people to engage in the community. These include car-free events, bike-themed events, and community events that encourage participants to be outside and travel by bike, for fun, for health and as an alternative to cars. Many of these are offered through the joint efforts with community partners. This collaboration speaks to the vested interest that local organizations, businesses and community members have in making Denver a more bike-friendly and bike-accessible community.
