RSSSat 16 Feb 2008
In the January 2007 BikeDenver Newsletter you will learn about:
Download the January 2008 BikeDenver Newsletter
Mon 6 Aug 2007
We hope you’re having a great summer full of bicycling adventures! We hope you enjoy our fresh newsletter format. Expect hear from us every couple of months as we get back into the newsletter swing of things.
Bike to Work Day
BikeDenver President David Rapp led a delegation of bicyclists from various groups on a bicycle ride around downtown Denver with Mayor Hickenlooper. The group rode through several trouble spots around downtown where cyclists have historically had issues. The Mayor was very receptive to the group’s suggestions, especially when he was able to view them firsthand. After the ride, the Mayor was presented with a list of issues that were discussed during the ride, and BikeDenver will be following up to ensure that progress is made in resolving the problems at hand.
Tour de Fat
Saturday, July 7 was a lucky day for bicycle advocacy in Denver—promoting pedal power and celebrating sustainable energy—by attracting cycling crazies and commuters alike. New Belgium Brewing Company’s 7th annual cycling circus helped put Denver bicycle advocacy on the map among a dozen Western cities, and boosted better bicycling with proceeds from parade, beer sales and philanthropy at the City Park event.
A hot day saw a mellow crowd convene on the grass near 20th Ave. & York Street in City Park for a peaceful yet passionate demonstration of two-wheeled mobility and sustainability. A centrally-located corral boasted bikes of many mutations available to test-ride, with helmets provided. One in particular had wheels made of sneakers—a creative, if bumpy, alternative to tires.
Proceeds from beer sales and merchandise, along with generous donations from attendees, went to the non-profit groups to further their missions of promoting cycling safety and self-sufficient transportation in the Denver Metro area.
Next year, BikeDenver is expected to be the main beneficiary of this event, and New Belgium is forecasting the number of participants here to triple. So, if you missed this year’s event, be sure to join the fun at next year’s Tour de Fat!
Join BikeDenver! If you’re already on our mailing list, we encourage you to become a member with whatever time, money, and energy you can. Memberships start at $35 (Individual), and $50 (Supporter). Want to give more? Other membership levels are available at the $100.00 (Advocate), $250.00 (Champion) and $500.00 (Elite) levels.
What will membership get you?
› Better advocacy for bicyclists in our city. BikeDenver will corral volunteers and members and engage local government to promote the healthy bike lifestyle and get more cars off the road.
› Regular newsletters to keep you up-to-date and invite/remind you of events and important meetings and issues needing bicyclists’ input.
› Regular meetings with interesting presentations to mingle with other two-wheelers, prioritize, and plan.
› Events like organized [theme] rides, bike-in movies, repair clinics, and safety classes.
› Website that is up-to-date and useful.
› Bike Parking at more city-wide events.
Join online. Or, you can mail a check if you’re Paypal averse. Mailing instructions can be found on the webpage listed above.
We need volunteers for the following upcoming events:
Taste of Colorado, Labor Day weekend, Aug 31-Sept 3
Veloswap, Saturday, Oct 27
For more information on volunteering at these events, contact bikeparking@bikedenver.org.
In June, members from the Mayor’s Bike Advisory Committee met with Bill Vidal, Denver’s Director of Public Works, and Lesley Thomas, City Engineer, to discuss bicycling conditions in Denver. The meeting was a positive one, and the MBAC is encouraged that there are opportunities for MBAC involvement in the planning process and for incorporating bicycling improvements into City projects. The City is already approaching Strategic Transportation Plan (STP) projects in a manner similar to Complete Streets policies—in other words, making our streets usable for ALL users, but there is still a need for incorporating bicycling culture into the way the City approaches projects. This is a cultural shift that has enjoyed much success in other cities such as Portland, OR and Tucson, AZ. The MBAC hopes to continue these meetings with Public Works on a quarterly basis.
Colorado Rocky Mountain Bike Tour, Gunnison – August 5 – 11, 2007
Moonlight Classic, Denver – August 18
A couple of interesting cycling publications:
Momentum Magazine – from Canada, eh? It’s a magazine for self-propelled people.
UrbanVelo – download issue #2 for free. It’s a pdf file, and it’s big. Print it if you must, but be sure to pass it around!
Be sure to check out BikeDenver’s new and improved website!
From your friends at BikeDenver…
Mon 11 Jun 2007
We look back at a successful ’06 and we’re making BIG plans for the rest of ’07. BikeDenver is going full-time for the bike this year! Our number one priority shifts to getting our Fair Share of public space and funding. Why? Without a strong, unified voice from bicyclists, the City of Denver will probably not prioritize making biking safe and easy, making the streets safer for kids riding to school & play, commuters pedaling to work, and everyone in-between. Transforming BikeDenver into a fun and active community of bicyclists, not just a lobbying organization, is what we envision for 2007 and beyond.
To make this happen, we are asking email subscribers to become a member with whatever time, money, and energy you can. Memberships start at $35 (member), and $50 (supporter).
What will membership get you?
What are your priorities? More bike lanes? Traffic calming? Bike Safety classes? We’re asking for your top 5 concerns and will read all and work toward as many as possible. Most importantly, we need your energy! Volunteer to park bikes, prepare mailings, coordinate events, pour beer at this summer’s Tour de Fat, become a liaison with your local bike shop and local government. Indicate what you want and what you can do on your membership form, and we’ll keep in touch.
Bike Denver’s Board of Directors will prioritize campaigns based on members’ concerns, but here are some of our current projects:
Don’t forget about Bike to Work Day! The official Bike to Work Day is Wednesday, June 27th. Check out the DRCOG website to learn more about the day and how to enjoy it… there’s free stuff to be had!
Online signup forms are now in place, enabling volunteers to choose bike parking shifts for the People’s Fair, City Park Jazz, pouring beer for the Tour de Fat, and more. We’re gearing up for a busier summer than ever and need all the help we can get!
Stay tuned for upcoming newsletters in a new format.
From your friends at BikeDenver…
Sat 1 Apr 2006
The mission of Bike Denver is to promote and encourage bicycling as an energy efficient, non-polluting, healthy, and enjoyable transportation alternative within the City and County of Denver.
NEXT MEETING: May 11th, 6-7pm, Union Station, Bicycle Colorado offices, Suite 236 upstairs.
Join us for a Cinco de Mayo pub crawl on Friday, May 5. Meet at Benny’s Restaurant at 7th and Logan (301 E 7th Ave) at 6:00. Enjoy the beverage of your choice at Benny’s, and we’ll move on to the Milagro Taco Bar at 17th and Vine St. (1700 Vine St) for stop #2. Our final destination will be Mezcal on Colfax Avenue (3230 E Colfax Ave, between Steele and Adams, near the Bluebird Theater). Bring $ for drinks and snacks—and don’t forget your lock! As always, helmets are required.  Ride updates will be posted on the website at www.bikedenver.org. Any questions, contact Tracy. Hope to see you there!
** PUT THE JOY BACK IN THE JOY OF CYCLING
** VOLUNTEER FOR PEOPLE’S FAIR
** SIGN UP NOW FOR ADVOCACY TRAINING
** PLATTE RIVER TRAIL DETOUR SAFETY CONCERNS
Here are 10 great reasons to finish reading this newsletter and get out on your bike!
1. Spring is here! You can really smell the flowers when you’re outside and on your bike.
2.   Take your friends and/or family along; bicycling is a great weekend recreational activity that costs nothing to do.
3.   Got your eye on a new bike? Donate your old bike to a local charity or community bike program so that someone can take advantage of your old bike.
4.   Go shopping with your bike – see how easy it is to buy several days of groceries without the hassle of finding parking or putting gas in your car.
5.   Bike to work – people who bike to work report feeling better and significantly more productive at work. Save money, gas, parking, and hassles.
6.   Sign up for a bike tour on your next vacation.
7.   Teach a child how to ride a bike. This is a gift that lasts a lifetime.
8.   Work off those extra winter pounds – this type of exercise really feels good!
9.   Ride past a gas station for fun. (Or stop in if you need some free air.)
10.   What are you waiting for? Read the next two pages and then go for a spin!
BikeDenver is once again providing bike parking for cyclists traveling to the People’s Fair to be held.
June 3rd & 4th. The corral will be at the Colfax & Lincoln St. entrance and will be open Saturday 10am-8:30pm and Sunday 10am-7:30pm. There will be an online sign-up sheet available shortly but you can indicate general interest and availability by signing in on the web site now. Just go to www.bikedenver.org and click on “Get Involved”.
BikeDenver is hosting the Thunderhead Alliance Training for bicycle advocacy leaders on July 14-16. The focus of the training will be on organizing and carrying out campaigns to improve pedestrian and bicycling conditions in your community. To find out more, visit Thunderhead’s website at: www.thunderheadalliance.org and follow the links to the Denver training flyer and registration form.
The training will take place at the Temple Events Center on Friday evening and move to REI Flagship Store for Sat and Sun. Registration is $250 and includes the Friday reception, Saturday breakfast, lunch, ride and party, plus Sunday’s breakfast and lunch. Discounts are available for additional representatives from the same organization. Leaders of state and local bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations are urged to sign up now as space is limited and the price goes up after June 14th.
The Thunderhead Alliance is the national coalition of state and local bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations working in unison to break down the barriers to safe bicycling and walking in North American communities.
We have heard from a number of members that the detour of the Platte River Trail at 58th and Brighton Blvd. is creating a lot of safety concerns. There is heavy truck traffic in the area and poor visibility of the riders puts them at risk.
According to James Potter at Wastewater Capital Projects Management, the agency doing the work, they have studied other detour routes but the current one is deemed to be the safest of all the options. However, they will be doing less work over the summer, “due to rising river levels and are examining the possibility of installing a temporary …path linking the trail systems…” If this happens, it would occur in mid-May but would disappear again in August.
A phone number has been set up for detoured trail users to state major concerns and/or safety issues: 303-865-3048. Use it wisely.
Our redesigned and upgraded website has a number of new features, so check it out at www.BikeDenver.org. Sign on to the Forum to get the latest suggestions, news of Trail Conditions, Letters to the Editor and other tidbits from fellow cyclists. Current cycling news and action alerts appear along with links to many other bike related sites. The calendar on the web page will be more current than the one usually found in this newsletter so look for it there.
Thanks to a coalition of bicycle advocates and event organizers led by Bicycle Colorado working with the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the cap on bicycle events on Colorado highways has been lifted by the. During the news conference, CSP Chief Trostel said that the cap “will not be implemented now or in the foreseeable future.”
According to Bicycle Colorado, the State Patrol is adopting recommendations from a working group consisting of the State Patrol, Bicycle Colorado, and the Colorado Department of Transportation. This includes a revised guidebook of best practices for planning and safety during the events, improved signage and training classes, and a hotline to the Colo. State Patrol that may be used by event riders who observe cars driving in a threatening or unsafe manner.
This outcome clearly shows what can be accomplished when advocates and decision makers agree upon the common goal of improving the safety and access for all users of our roads. We extend our thanks and support to all who worked so hard to make this outcome possible.
At the annual Bicycle Colorado Gala, winners of three statewide awards were announced. An open nomination process resulted in three finalists in each category and these were then voted on by bicyclists across Colorado. Congratulations to the winners!!
Bicycling Event of the Year: Triple Bypass
Bicycling Club of the Year: COMotion Sports/Yeti Racing
Bicycle Retailer of the Year: Wheat Ridge Cyclery
One of Colorado’s most popular roads for biking is about to get a little better. In early April, the Jefferson County Commissioners approved a project to add paved bicycle shoulders to Deer Creek Canyon Road between Owens Street and Philipsburg. This front range climb is located just southwest of Littleton. Bike Jeffco led the effort and their seven years of persistence resulted in success. Construction is slated for this summer and is expected to be completed by October.
Source: Bicycle Colorado – www.BicycleColorado.org
Here is a helpful web site www.bikexprt.com/streetsmarts/ has an online version of the 46 page booklet Bicycling Street Smarts: Riding Confidently, Legally
and Safely. It has a lot of helpful hints, great diagrams for navigating intersections, group riding and safely riding after dark. Check it out.
MEMBERSHIP IN BIKEDENVER means:
1. We have your email address. We send you action alerts and a monthly newsletter.
2. You act on BikeDenver action items, as you feel willing and able.
3. You recruit other bicyclists to join BikeDenver. Membership is FREE!!!
To join BikeDenver send an email to info@bikedenver.org and write “subscribe” in the subject.
Wed 1 Feb 2006
The mission of Bike Denver is to promote and encourage bicycling as an energy efficient, non-polluting, healthy, and enjoyable transportation alternative within the City and County of Denver.
NEXT MEETING: March 9, 6-7pm, Union Station, Bicycle Colorado offices, Suite 236 upstairs.
When: Sunday, March 19 (Sunday, March 26 weather date), 1:00 p.m.
Where: Meet at South High School in Denver
Join BikeDenver as we take a leisurely tour through South Denver’s Washington Park and DU neighborhoods. We’ll make several stops for coffee at our favorite local haunts and celebrate the coming of Spring! Bring money for coffee and snacks. Riders will be asked to sign a waiver and wear a helmet to participate. Ride updates will be posted on the website at www.bikedenver.org.
Contact Tracy at thalasin@yahoo.com with questions.
** IMPORTANT COMMUNITY MEETINGS WITH THE MAYOR
** BIKEDENVER TO HOST THUNDERHEAD ALLIANCE TRAINING
** QWEST FOUNDATION MATCHING GRANT
** NATIONAL MAGAZINE HONORS DENVER
** VISIT OUR NEW, REDESIGNED WEB SITE
** BUCHTEL BOULEVARD COALITION (BBC)
** NEWS FROM MAYOR’S BICYCLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
** LANCE ARMSTRONG FOUNDATION (LAF) ANNOUNCES DENVER EVENT
Mayor John Hickenlooper is launching a new public input initiative called Partnership Denver: Neighbors Building Solutions this spring. The series of six community forums in March and April will provide an opportunity to find solutions to neighborhood concerns by building partnerships with the city, neighborhoods, non-profits and businesses.
“Denver owes much of its success and vitality to the active engagement of its citizens and neighborhoods in shaping its future,” said Mayor Hickenlooper, who hosted.
It is extremely importance that there be a strong bicycle community voice at these events. These meetings are an excellent opportunity to voice our concerns and provide valuable input to Mayor Hickenlooper, City Council members, and members of the Mayor’s Cabinet who will be in attendance. A number of important bicycle issues were raised at the last series of meetings, Denver Listens in 2004, because the bicycle community was so well represented. Let’s do it again!
Participants will use interactive key-pad technology to facilitate discussions and provide real-time data gathering and feedback. Denver residents who want to join the interactive conversation in their area are asked make a free, courtesy reservation by calling 720-865-9074 or by registering online at www.denvergov.org/PartnershipDenver
Forum Dates and Locations
Southwest
Thursday, March 9, 2006
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Southwest Improvement Council
1000 S. Lowell Boulevard
Northwest
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Academia Ana Marie Sandoval
3655 Wyandot Street
Southeast
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Temple Sinai
3509 S. Glencoe Street
Green Valley Ranch
Saturday, March 25, 2006
9:00am to 12:00noon
Recreation Center
4890 Argonne Way
Central East
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Johnson & Wales University
7150 Montview Boulevard
Central West
Tuesday, April 4, 2006
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Centro San Juan Diego
2830 Lawrence Street
BikeDenver will to host a Thunderhead Alliance Training for bicycle advocacy leaders in Denver on July 14-16 although the exact location is still under review. The Thunderhead Alliance is the national coalition of state and local bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations working in unison to break down the barriers to safe bicycling and walking in North American communities.
This training is for leaders of state and local bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations. Its purpose is to train leaders to organize and execute campaigns that will improve pedestrian and bicycling conditions in their communities. To find out more, visit their web site at: www.thunderheadalliance.org/trainings.
In February, BikeDenver received a matching grant of $500 from the Qwest Foundation. The match was based on the number of hours a Qwest employee has donated to the organization. We are deeply appreciative of both this Qwest grant and the employee who wishes to remain anonymous.
Bicycling Magazine recently picked Denver as the 2nd best place to bike in America in the 500K to 1M population category. Criteria for the award included bicycle facilities, number of riders, and general bicycle friendly culture. The downtown bike bridge over I-25 (under construction) and bicycle events such as VeloSwap were mentioned as reasons for choosing Denver for the award.
Our redesigned and upgraded website is now up and running, so check it out at www.BikeDenver.org. Current cycling news and action alerts appear along with links to many other bike related sites. The calendar on the web page will be more current than the one usually found in this newsletter so look for it there.
If you live in the area around Buchtel Blvd between Colo. Blvd. and Logan St., you should be aware of the Buchtel Boulevard Coalition (BBC) recently formed to provide input about the final redesign of this area affected by the TREX project. Of special interest is the issue of bicycle and pedestrian flow through the area and particularly access to the new light rail stations at Louisiana, University and Colorado from the north side of I-25. This relates to the lingering question of the I-25 bridges previously discussed in this newsletter.
Two meetings have been held to date with the next one scheduled for Wednesday, March 15th at 7 pm at the District 3 Police Station community room, 1625 S University Blvd. Contact Charles Howard at 303-282-0982 or AE5260@msn.com
Dan Grunig of Bicycle Colorado (BC), briefed the MBAC on current BC activities including the work they are doing with the Colorado State Patrol regarding the proposed, and then rescinded, cap on the number of riders at cycling events. He stated that while there are problems, large events can attract new bicyclists to the sport and this is an opportunity for education.
The Safe Routes To School (SR2S) program was also reviewed. Two years ago BC got the Colorado SR2S bill passed and it is now funded with new federal transportation dollars. Colorado will have $2.3 million to spend based upon student population. Visit www.BicycleColorado.org for more information on both of these topics. (See update in News from Bicycle Colorado below.)
David Krutsinger talked about the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) which TCRP is part of the National Academy of Sciences and the Transportation Research Board. Of special interest to us is their 2005 report on Integration of Bicycles and Transit. In the eleven years since the last report, bike on transit services have become more common, including bike racks pre-installed on new buses. Increasing the capacity of the bike racks on buses is an issue as bicyclists use the service more. In Denver, the annual bike-on-bus boardings average 540,000. The service has been shown to be safe, with few maintenance concerns. Transit operators still have schedule concerns, but impacts are rare.
While some members stated that low floor vehicles and larger stairwells would be better for bikes, Krutsinger said that the current RTD stance is that they won’t do low floor vehicles. There is a potential, however, to include a low floor vehicle in a three or four car [insert: "LIGHT RAIL?"] train.
Source: Approved Jan. minutes of the Dec MBAC meetings; James Mackay, Denver Bicycle Planner
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, communities have applied for $6.5 million in bicycle/pedestrian projects and safety education programs, far exceeding the $2.3 million available this year. Safe Routes to School grant funds will be distributed before students return this fall.
BC efforts to keep bike paths safe for bicyclists continue with opposition to State Senate Bill 168. This bill would allow select motor vehicles (e.g. Segways) access to bike paths. The bill recently passed the Senate Transportation Committee by one vote. It now moves to the Senate floor.
In conjunction with their annual Gala fundraiser event on April 22nd, BC will present the 2006 Bicyclists’ Choice Awards for Bicycling Event, Club and Retailer of the Year. Go to their website to vote your favorites and get your tickets to the Gala. Support the organization that does so much for bicycling in Colorado.
Source: Bicycle Colorado – www.BicycleColorado.org
LAF has teamed up with Nike to produce the LIVESTRONG™ Challenge – a series of fundraising events in five cities across the country supporting the LAF’s mission to inspire and empower people affected by cancer. The Denver event will be held Aug. 20th in and around the Denver area although the exact route is still in the planning stages. While the LIVESTRONG™ Challenge maintains the LAF’s previously scheduled signature LIVESTRONG™ cycling event, the addition of a 10K run and a 5K run/walk will allow people of all ages and physical abilities to participate and raise funds for cancer survivors.
Individuals and teams are encouraged to register early to take advantage of the “coaches” program with LAF. The ride will raise funds to support the LAF’s advocacy, public health and research programs including the one at the University of Colorado Cancer Research Center.
To register or to learn more about the LIVESTRONG™ Challenge, call 888.4.CHALLENGE [888.424.2553] or visit www.livestrongchallenge.org.
MEMBERSHIP IN BIKEDENVER means:
1. We have your email address. We send you action alerts and a monthly newsletter.
2. You act on BikeDenver action items, as you feel willing and able.
3. You recruit other bicyclists to join BikeDenver. Membership is FREE!!!
To join BikeDenver send an email to info@bikedenver.org and write “subscribe” in the subject.
Thu 1 Dec 2005
The mission of Bike Denver is to promote and encourage bicycling as an energy efficient, non-polluting, healthy, and enjoyable transportation alternative within the City and County of Denver.
NEXT MEETING: January 12, 6-7pm, Union Station, Bicycle Colorado offices, Suite 236 upstairs.
Join BikeDenver for a winter comfort ride on Saturday, January 28. We’ll meet at Perk Hill Coffee at 2202 Kearney Street in Park Hill for a 4:00 p.m. ride start. We’ll ride through the Park Hill and Stapleton neighborhoods and then return to Perk Hill for coffee, hot chocolate, snacks and a movie. What’s the movie, you ask? “Breaking Away,” of course! For those interested in more substantial fare, we can order pizza from Oblio’s pizza around the corner. We’ll make a go/no-go decision for the ride on Thursday, but the movie will still play at 5:30 p.m. regardless of the weather. Be sure to bring your helmets and lights, as it will be dark after the movie. There is plenty of on-street parking in the area, as well as an off-street lot. Ride updates will be posted on the website at www.bikedenver.org. Contact Tracy at thalasin@yahoo.com with questions.
** BIKEDENVER APPLIES FOR EPA FUNDS
** BIKEDENVER TO HOST THUNDERHEAD ALLIANCE TRAINING
** ANNUAL PLANNING RETREAT HELD
** NEWS FROM MAYOR’S BICYCLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
** POSITIONS OPEN WITH CYCLE CIRCUS
BikeDenver’s first ride arrived with winter, taking place on December 21, the Winter Solstice. The weather was perfect and quite un-winter-like, as 15 enthusiastic riders arrived in City Park for the 6:30 p.m. ride start. We were a festive bunch, with our headlights and red blinkies. Some even adorned themselves with a string or two of Christmas tree lights.
The group took a lap around City Park with a view of the zoo’s Wildlights display. We then rode on to Cheesman Park, where we circled the park and headed over on 12th Avenue to see the neighborhood lighting display in the 1300 block of Milwaukee Street. The group closed the loop by heading back to the ride start in City Park, bringing the ride to an end.
Fun was had by all, and some participants continued on for warm beverages at a local coffee shop. Look for more BikeDenver ride events this winter and continuing into summer.
In another first, BikeDenver took the lead in responding to a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) request for proposals. Staff help from Downtown Denver Partners, RTD, DRCOG, CDOT, and the City and County of Denver was critical to the development and writing of the proposal. Letters of support were obtained from each of these agencies and they will remain partners in the project if funded. Our community-based project proposes to teach a series of adult bicycle commuting classes that will help the participants overcome common barriers to commuting by bicycle and reduce the number of contributors to ozone pollution. The winning grants will be announced in March.
BikeDenver was one of only two successful bids to host a Thunderhead Alliance Training for bicycle advocacy leaders in 2006. This is a real feather in our cap. The details are still to be worked out and we will be soliciting volunteer help as plans progress. The Thunderhead Alliance is the national coalition of state and local bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations working in unison to break down the barriers to safe bicycling and walking in North American communities. They bring leaders of their member organizations together to help each other grow their organizations and become more effective.
A small, dedicated group of members joined the BikeDenver Board of Directors at our recent planning retreat. We reviewed our accomplishments and current status, took stock of our resources and discussed where to focus our efforts in the future. We will continue to improve our current operations that include the website, newsletter and our bike parking program. Since our volunteers and members are the backbone of our organization, we plan to involve them more through fun events such as movie nights and theme rides. There never seems to be a shortage of advocacy issues and we will continue to be involved in DMAP, the MBAC, Thunderhead (if you don’t know what these stand for, read on) and the Strategic Transportation Plan (STP). As all of these activities cost money, we will be looking for more funding opportunities such as the EPA grant noted above.
As a member, you are urged to come to our open meetings (2nd Thurs of every month) and get involved in one or more of our projects.
Our redesigned and upgraded website is now up and running, so check it out at www.BikeDenver.org. Current cycling news and action alerts appear along with links to many other bike related sites. The calendar on the web page will be more current than the one usually found in this newsletter so that item will be discontinued after this issue.
The new MBAC chair is Tracy Halasinski, a member of the BikeDenver Board of Directors and an avid cyclist. Congratulations Tracy!
RTD is currently looking at the potential alignments and station alternatives for the Air Train that will run between Union Station and DIA, in part along I-70 (also known as the I-70 East Corridor). The Union Pacific railroad corridor is the most likely route and there are no bike routes/trails within that corridor. The committee moved to support that the I-70 EIS alternatives include a trail inside the railroad corridor.
Looking at interface of Curtis Park and Downtown, the MBAC moved to recommend the extension of the Lawrence St. bike lanes up to 36th Avenue and a bike route on Larimer St. from 37th Avenue into downtown.
The final action at the Nov mtg. concerned the Denver Multimodal Access Plan (DMAP) for downtown that calls for combination bus/bike lanes on both 18th and 19th Streets between Broadway and Wynkoop. However, no bike connections from Broadway are defined to reach Sherman Street, which serves as a distributor for the 16th Ave and 18th/19th Ave. bike routes. Therefore, a motion was made that DMAP include bicycle connections from the proposed 18th and 19th Street bus/bike lanes to connect with Sherman Street.
An update of the Sand Creek Greenway was presented at the Dec mtg. The overall length of the trail will be fourteen miles, from the Platte River Trail in Commerce City to the High Line Canal Trail in Aurora. The Greenway Foundation will do 5-6 projects in the next five years and then turn the trail over to the cities. The Commerce City portion in the floodway is paved. The master plan calls for future paving with an adjoining soft surface trail. Currently, the old Stapleton airport runway bridges over Sand Creek are being removed and there will be future landscaping in that area. The washout of the trail beneath a railroad bridge in Commerce City requires a response from the railroad before any repairs can be implemented.
James Mackay announced that the Holly Street Bridge over Cherry Creek would be replaced in 2006. During construction, the crane pad will occupy the trail head/parking lot on the west side of the Holly and Cherry Creek Drive North intersection. A new traffic signal system will be installed, with better locations for pushbuttons for Cherry Creek Trail users. The Quebec Street Bridge over Cherry Creek will be widened next year as well with a new ramp to be built on the western side of Quebec Street. Trail users will be able to use both the existing ramp on the east side and the new, western ramp when construction activities require that the trail be closed.
Source: Approved Nov minutes and draft minutes of the Dec MBAC meetings; James Mackay, Denver Bicycle Planner
On December 12, Bicycle Colorado met with the State Patrol, state legislators, transportation planners, and event organizers to discuss concerns about the State Patrol’s cap on bicycling events with more than 2,500 riders. The main result of the meeting is the formation of a working group to review ideas and best practices for keeping events safe, instead of an event cap. This taskforce will include Bicycle Colorado, State Patrol, and CDOT staff. This group will look at ride safety, State Patrol event resources, and motorist behavior. To stay on top of this issue, be sure to visit their web site at www.bicyclecolo.org
Bicycle Colorado continues to advocate strongly for the bicycling community and our efforts to build a bicycle-friendly Colorado. Show your support by becoming a member and plan on attending their annual fundraiser to be held this year on April 22nd.
Source: Bicycle Colorado – www.bicyclecolorado.org
The circus, dedicated to educating children and their families in safe cycling and the importance of wearing a helmet, has just had its most exciting and successful year ever. We presented bike safety messages to 5,000 children in schools throughout the Front Range, and at the circuses at the Pepsi Center, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins and Boulder. The request list for 2006 is long and help is needed.
Two positions are open: (1) – An experienced Event Coordinator for events in the four cities above and (2) – a School Programs Coordinator to manage program and present in classroom. Contract position; educator preferred. February – June, and September. To apply or get additional information send an e-mail to: biacsafetycircus@aol.com with the subject title – POSITION.
We are also seeking interested volunteers with a passion for child safety to join our steering committee/board. Expertise in marketing, business and accounting would be especially valued. Come and join a fantastic team. Send an e-mail to: cfnagel@comcast.net with the subject title – CIRCUS
Remember to check our web site www.bikedenver.org for the most current listing of events.
Bicycle Colorado Gala Celebration and Auction
Walnut Foundry, Denver
www.bicyclecolo.org
Elephant Rock Ride
Castle Rock
www.elephantrockride.com
Cycle Circus for Kids
Pepsi Center
www.cyclesafety.org
Bike to Work Day
www.biketowork.com
Ride the Rockies
www.ridetherockies.com
Triple Bypass
www.teamevergreen.com
Moonlight Classic
www.moonlight-classic.com
MEMBERSHIP IN BIKEDENVER means:
1. We have your email address. We send you action alerts and a monthly newsletter.
2. You act on BikeDenver action items, as you feel willing and able.
3. You recruit other bicyclists to join BikeDenver. Membership is FREE!!!
To join BikeDenver send an email to info@bikedenver.org and write “subscribe” in the subject.
Thu 1 Sep 2005
The mission of Bike Denver is to promote and encourage bicycling as an energy efficient, non-polluting, healthy, and enjoyable transportation alternative within the City and County of Denver.
NEXT MEETING: October 13, 6-7pm, Bicycle Colorado’s office, Room 236 in Union Station
We are indeed fortunate to live in a city and state with so many bicycle paths, trails, and street accommodations. This didn’t happen by accident but is the result of many years of dedicated work on the part of local, state, and national cycling advocacy organizations and their members. In return, those of us who enjoy the fruits of their labors have an obligation to support these organizations at each and every level.
BikeDenver (www.bikedenver.org), a local group, is involved in Denver specific efforts as exemplified by our current efforts to get better access for cyclists to the new light rail stations. Bicycle Colorado (www.bicyclecolo.org) is the only advocacy group with a statewide Colorado focus and their recent legislative successes have improved cycling safety for all of us. On the national level, a number of bicycle and trails organizations have diligently and successfully lobbied over the years for a greater share of the federal transportation dollars. Examples include IMBA (www.imba.org), League of American Bicyclists (www.bikeleague.org) and Rails to Trails Conservancy (www.railtrails.org).
But so much remains to be done – bicycle friendly streets, maintained trails, children able to ride to school – so join now, at each level, and know that you are doing all you can to ensure and expand safe and accessible cycling opportunities.
** Volunteers Make A Difference At The Taste Of Colorado
** BikeDenver Action Plan Update
** Bicycle Touring Class Offered
** Katrina Evacuee Rides Bike To Baton Rouge
This event wouldn’t have been the success it was, without the extra effort made by BikeDenver’s core members, their family and friends, and other dedicated cyclists. We parked about 1200 bikes over the 4 day Festival and collected approximately $850 in tips.
Special thanks go to the large number of volunteers who worked more than one shift. It makes it so much easier for us knowing that we have experienced and reliable help covering the next shift. Don L, Thomas L, and Richard G all worked multiple shifts. A wonderful turnout by DBTC members really made a difference along with the great cast members from Shocking Beyond Belief Productions and members the Scum of the Earth Church congregation. Everyone enjoyed the youthful energy of students volunteering from Skyland High School in Denver.
Finally, Russell, who was in town visiting from Sterling, CO and helped out, would definitely get the “going out your way to help” award!
BikeDenver has been informed that the RTD Board 2006 budget includes a Colorado Boulevard Station Access Study. This will be a joint study with the City and County of Denver to determine the design, placement and cost of “potential pedestrian/bicycle bus access improvements”. The City is matching RTD’s $38K and they are also submitting a $75K CMAQ grant request. CMAQ stands for “congestion mitigation air quality” – one of the programs funded within the federal Department of Transportation.
This study will be an important one as Denver continues to move ahead on the Strategic Transportation Plan. You can make your position known regarding the need for bicycle friendly access and accommodations and have an impact on the decisions made by taking a simple survey online at: www.keepdenvermoving.org/survey/individual
Volunteers helping out with bike parking will be given free admission to this year’s VeloSwap, October 22, at the National Western Complex. Only 12 volunteer time slots are available so it will be a “first come, first chosen” policy.
BikeDenver has agreed to provide two secure bicycle corrals. The one outside at the southeast corner of the building will offer free parking for those biking to the event. Inside there will be an attended storage area where buyers can leave any large purchased items while continuing to browse the many available bargains.
If you want to help out send an email with your name and phone number to: bikeparking@bikedenver.org.
We have redesigned and upgraded our website so check it out at www.BikeDenver.org for useful information. Among the many helpful links to other cycling websites you will find there is one for registering your bike – a good idea and you will be glad you did if it is ever lost or stolen.
http://www.denvergov.org/BikeRegistration.asp or from our links page: http://www.bikedenver.org/links.htm
During the recent Bike to Work Day, BikeDenver distributed a short questionnaire to riders stopping at our booth in Civic Center Park. Over 100 responses were collected and some of the results were:
Why do you ride a bike?
51% said that health was the most important reason
25% cited recreation as the major reason
21% said it was primarily for transportation
What mode of transportation do you use most often to get to work?
36% used their bike
35% drove or rode in a car
20% rode the bus
52% used a commuting mode other than driving 16 or more days per month
There was considerable discussion about the fact that bicyclists riding within Parks are impacted by dogs on leashes longer than 3′ long, children, pedestrians on the bicycle side of the road, etc. Previously the committee recommended trail user ordinance to Parks – in 1998 – with no subsequent action. The gates that Parks installed across bike route D-8 within City Park create hazards for bicyclists, including routing them over a drainage grate. These and other topics have never been resolved. There is a need to enforce all rules or provide a park for high speed bicycling.
Future provisions of FasTracks facilities will result in increased transit user traffic between Union Station and Civic Center RTD stations. The FasTracks initiative can provide a shuttle bus on 18th and 19th Streets, where bike lanes are currently in place. Accordingly, a shared bus/bike lane concept has been developed. One proposal would replace existing on street parking on 18th Street with a transit facility. Improvements need to be in place by 2013 for the opening of the West Corridor. Currently, the estimates are eight years for process, design, construction, purchase of special vehicles, etc. The MBAC endorsed the concept of a combination bus/bike lane on 18th and 19th Streets.
Currently the trail ends immediately west of the BNSF railroad tracks (just east of Pecos St.). This project will complete the trail to reach the Platte River Trail, immediately south of the Xcel Cherokee power plant. The new portion will be 10′ wide concrete, with 2 low flow crossings of the creek and a new culvert underpass beneath the railroad tracks. A significant portion of the funding is coming from the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District (UDFCD). The total project cost is approximately $800K.
Due to deteriorated pavement conditions is recommending that bikes be rerouted onto Dartmouth Street between the bike shop just west of Sheridan to Webster St. (just east of Wadsworth). Bike lanes could be provided on Dartmouth St.
Source: Draft minutes of the Sept. MBAC meeting, James Mackay, Denver Bicycle Program.
After a two year delay, the federal government passed its five-year, $286.5 billion transportation funding bill with an original name we won’t soon forget- SAFETEA-LU. We will spare you the acronym definition but transportation groupies may get the full scoop on our website.
The bill authorizes as much as $4 billion in new federal spending on bike paths, trails, and related programs, a $1 billion increase over the last bill in 1998. Gains for bicyclists resulted from multi-year efforts by the America Bikes coalition and grassroots bicycle advocacy groups across the nation like Bicycle Colorado. Additional national information is available at www.americabikes.org.
Bicycle Colorado led several meetings with Colorado’s federal senators and representatives during the bill’s debate, paying dividends for bicyclists in Colorado. Bicycle business leaders, bicycle advocates, and transportation leaders all played a significant role expressing the value of bicycling. By encouraging more trips and recreation by bike, Colorado will improve health, safety, and the environment while saving employers, households, and the government money. More details on funding for bicycle related programs are at www.BicycleColorado.org/for/safetealu
A major benefit for our state is the funding of the Safe Routes to School program. The program will be administered by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and, based on the Colorado Safe Routes to School Act passed in 2004, will direct the federal Safe Routes funds to communities across the state. Information on program details and grant guidelines will send out as soon as they become available. www.ColoradoSafeRoutes.org
Source: Bicycle Colorado – www.bicyclecolorado.org
Do you yearn for adventure beyond the interstate? Why not consider a road trip by bicycle? Colorado Free University (CFU) will offer a class Saturday October 8 from 9-11:30 AM entitled “On the Road Again-by Bicycle”, to help you select an affordable outfitter or plan your own long-distance bicycle trip. To register, visit the CFU website, www.freeu.com or call 303-399-0093. For more information on the class, call 303-368-1136.
Steve Godfrey, who does not drive a car, rode his bike to Baton Rouge to escape Hurricane Katrina. Godfrey is a bicycle advocate and his only available means of escaping the city before the hurricane was via his bicycle. He rode out of New Orleans sometime Sunday morning and arrived in Baton Rouge Sunday night. Those who know him are not only overjoyed by his safe evacuation, but are thoroughly inspired by his courage, his perseverance, and his can do attitude. We need more like him.
17th Annual Veloswap and Sports Expo
www.VeloSwap.com
National Western Complex
Denver, Colorado
MEMBERSHIP IN BIKEDENVER means:
1. We have your email address. We send you action alerts and a monthly newsletter.
2. You act on BikeDenver action items, as you feel willing and able.
3. You recruit other bicyclists to join BikeDenver. Membership is FREE!!!
To join BikeDenver send an email to info@bikedenver.org and write “subscribe” in the subject.
Mon 1 Aug 2005
The mission of Bike Denver is to promote and encourage bicycling as an energy efficient, non-polluting, healthy, and enjoyable transportation alternative within the City and County of Denver.
NEXT MEETING: September 8, 6-7pm, Bicycle Colorado’s office, Room 236 in Union Station
Volunteers are needed to help with the Bike Corrals at the Taste of Colorado Festival coming up Labor Day weekend – Sept. 2nd to 5th. BikeDenver currently has no membership dues – providing bicycle parking for festivals and events is our main source of funding. But doing so requires a lot of volunteer help and time from members. All it takes is a mere 3 hours of your time to help park bikes.
As always, Taste of Colorado supplies our volunteers with their food/beverage coupons. In addition, we host a fun annual volunteer appreciation dinner at HandleBar & Grill.
SO HELP PROMOTE SAFE BIKING BY VOLUNTEERING NOW! SEND YOUR NAME AND PHONE NUMBER TO: bikerossmiller@earthlink.net or bikeparking@bikedenver.org.
** BikeDenver Action Plan Update
** Community Meeting With Mayor Hickenlooper
** BikeDenver Members Have Impact
** New Federal Legislation Aids Cycling
** News from MBAC – Speeding in Wash Park
** Safe Routes to School Nat’l Partnership
** Summer Ski Train Special for Members
BikeDenver continues to work with RTD, the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Committee and other stakeholders in finding the resources for a pedestrian/bicycle bridge across I-25 at Colorado Blvd. The likely costs of the bridge structure and needed right of way is being determined by the staff of the Denver Bicycle Program to help define the total scope of the project. They are looking to DRCOG for possible federal Transportation Improvement Project (TIP) dollars to fund part of the bridge. Even if obtained, they would cover only about a third of the anticipated cost so additional sources of funding will be needed.
We are currently seeking volunteers for bike parking at the Taste of Colorado, the big 4-day event held Sept. 2nd – 5th at Denver’s Civic Center. BikeDenver will again be providing two secure bicycle parking corrals in an effort to encourage more people to ride their bikes to the festival. Volunteers receive coupons good for beer, wine, or food at the many festival vendors SO VOLUNTEER NOW. Send an email with your name and phone number to: bikeparking@bikedenver.org.
In addition, BikeDenver continues to inventory areas where bicycle parking accommodations are either non-existent, inadequate, or not up to City standards. Send your nominations for worst example of bike parking to info@BikeDenver.org. Pictures are helpful.
We have redesigned and upgraded our website so check it out at www.BikeDenver.org for useful information and helpful links to other cycling websites.
On Saturday, August 27th, Mayor Hickenlooper and Denver City & County officials will present the top priorities for the 2006 budge currently being developed. This is a chance for cyclists to present a case for improved cycling accommodations, for example:
Finish implementation of Bicycle Master Plan by specifically funding missing links
Include bicycle interests in all land use, transportation, and development projects
Appoint cycling representatives on transportation related citizen advisory committees
Better maintenance of existing bike designated lanes
Reinstate bicycle education program with Officer Bob Montoya
The meeting will be held 9-11:30am in the Cafeteria of the Denver School of the Arts, 7111 Montview Blvd. (at Quebec St.).
At a public meeting held on August 9th, at the St. Charles Recreation Center agreement was reached with the selection of a new and different route across the rec. center site. A great big Thank You goes out to the BikeDenver members who showed up Tuesday August 9th for the St. Charles Rec Center meeting! According to James Mackay, “There were about 20+ people at the meeting – half of them were … BikeDenver people…. This made a HUGE difference.”
It was an impressive example of different factions coming together to successfully negotiate a solution that works for everybody! With the planned new routing of the D9 bike route continuation–connecting the Platte Trail to Franklin St. via 38th Ave.–through the St. Charles property, there will be little or no impact on the rec center’s available space for field sports. Plus other issues such as safety, future light rail plans, and cost containment were all covered effectively.
Thanks also go to Councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth, for calling the meeting, the St. Charles Recreation staff and participants, neighbors and residents of the adjoining Cole neighborhood, the folks from Denver Parks and Recreation Dept., Denver Bicycle Planner James Mackay and everyone else who came together to shape a positive outcome for all involved.
Another hearty THANKS goes to Denver Parks & Recreation from BikeDenver for repaving the asphalt path through Rude Park! (This runs between Federal & Decatur, along Lakewood Gulch just West of the Platte trail.) What was, for a long time, a hazardous course over heaving tree roots and cracked pavement is now a smooth, much safer cruise for the many bike commuters, park users and area residents.
Two major pieces of legislation passed congress last month and were signed into law by President Bush. Both of them had important sections devoted to the interests of bicyclists. The $286.4 billion transportation bill, known as SAFETEA-LU, includes more than $3 billion for bicycle and pedestrian related projects. The energy bill includes a provision for $6.25 million to go to up to 10 communities for Conserve by Bike. This new program will enable the communities, which have yet to be chosen, to promote bicycling as an energy reduction strategy.
You can find excellent summaries of both bills by visiting the League of American Bicyclists website: www.bikeleague.org
Officer Bob Montoya met with MBAC and reported on the Police Department’s response to concerns about high-speed bicyclists in Washington Park. After observing the operating conditions and discussing the topic with people at Parks, five days of radar monitoring was done northeast of the park recreation center. The posted speed limit is 15 MPH, and the average observed speed was 17 MPH. There was a cluster of high-speed usage in the range of 27 – 31 MPH and the highest recorded speed was 34 MPH. Bicyclists exceeding the speed limit can be issued a $20 ticket, with a $20 court surcharge. The MBAC will continue to work with Officer Montoya in seeking acceptable methods for controlling bike speeds in the park.
Source: Draft minutes of the August MBAC meeting, James Mackay, Denver Bicycle Program
Bicycle Colorado would like to introduce the newest additions to our staff. Neal Lurie heads up marketing and membership functions and Jannell Shaw manages volunteer and office coordination. Neal and Jannell have strong backgrounds in bicycle advocacy and have a great knowledge of Colorado issues. We are excited to have them on board.
Members of Bicycle Colorado have enjoyed reading bicycle attorney Brad Tucker’s column in our print newsletter, “Ride Time News.” Since bicyclists often contact us with these types of questions, we have decided to share past columns on our website. Brad addresses your Colorado bicycle law questions like: Which insurance covers costs from a bicycle-related crash? Does a bike club have liability? Can you be charged with drunk biking? Visit www.BicycleColorado.org/to/Legal to read Brad’s responses. You can get your own free copy of “Ride Time News” by becoming a member at www.BicycleColorado.org/to/Join.
Source: Bicycle Colorado – www.bicyclecolorado.org
The Safe Routes to School National Partnership, funded initially by Bikes Belong, is designed to ensure that the Safe Routes to School money authorized by the new federal transportation bill is put to the best possible use. This fast-growing network of organizations and professional groups is working to set goals, share best practices, secure funding, and provide detailed policy input to implementing agencies for Safe Routes to School, a new $612 million federal program. The funds will be available to all 50 states during the next five years to build facilities and run educational programs that will create safe ways for kids to pedal and walk to school. The Safe Routes program addresses the alarming trend toward child obesity and inactivity, while also reducing traffic congestion and air pollution.
Source: Bicycle Newswire, www.bicyclenewswire.com
There are still two Saturdays (8/20 and 8/27) left to enjoy the Ski Train to Winter Park. They are offering a special adult coach fare of only $39 for Bike Denver members as well as their friends and family. Children and seniors are just $34. To make your reservations call 303-296-4754 and mention this promotion or book online at www.skitrain.com. Just make sure you put BIKE DENVER in the comments field to receive this great rate! Bike transport on the train is FREE!
The Colorado Department of Parks and Recreation is holding the 9th Annual Colorado State Trails Symposium to be held September 21-24, 2005 at the Omni Interlocken Resort in Broomfield. The theme, You Can Get There From Here, reflects our devotion to all types of trails, ranging from background trails, to hiking trails, to paved multi-use city trails and those that cross the state. There will be a mixture of workshops, field trips and training sessions. Visit www.parks.state.co.us or call 303-791-1957 x131 to register or obtain more information.
Moonlight Classic
Benefit for Seniors, Inc.
www.moonlight-classic.com
State Capital, Denver, CO
Tour of the Valley
www.discoverourtown.com
Grand Junction, CO
12th Annual Road Ramble
Griffith Centers for Children’s
www.roadramble.com
Larkspur, CO
2005 Buffalo Bicycle Classic
www.buffalobicycleclassic.com
CU Boulder, CO
2005 Ride for 65 Roses
www.ridefor65roses.com
Benefit for Cystic Fibrosis
Louisville, CO
17th Annual Veloswap and Sports Expo
www.VeloSwap.com
National Western Complex
Denver, Colorado
MEMBERSHIP IN BIKEDENVER means:
1. We have your email address. We send you action alerts and a monthly newsletter.
2. You act on BikeDenver action items, as you feel willing and able.
3. You recruit other bicyclists to join BikeDenver. Membership is FREE!!!
To join BikeDenver send an email to info@bikedenver.org and write “subscribe” in the subject.
