Folks On Spokes

Folks On Spokes' Online Clubhouse

Calls to Congress needed now on federal transportation bill

Help strengthen the message that LIB and other Illinois cyclists delivered on Capitol Hill in March. Ask for bike-friendly provisions in the "TEA-LU" multi-year transportation bill...more.

Congressman Ray LaHood is presented with a certificate of appreciation for his outstanding leadership in bicycling issues. LIB, along with other Illinois bike summit attendees and 3 bike clubs from LaHood's district, made the presentation. From left to right: Lynn Miller, Matt Maloney, Ed Barsotti, Representative Ray LaHood, Michael Zellman, and Al Sturges of FOS.

Technical Training Workshops

Why and how to accommodate bicyclists are new topics for a large number of local planners, road engineers, and other officials.

How can our town fund and implement a trail project - and ensure community support? What can be done to encourage kids to walk or bike to school more safely? What's the best way to design for bikes during a major road project? Training sessions covering these and other questions help educate - a key component in working toward a bicycle-friendly Illinois.

LIB is has been working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Chicago Area Transportation Study, and other interested groups to provide nearby, quality workshops. We're helping to get the word out to local officials and interested citizens all around Illinois. You can help - call your mayor and ask that your town be represented!

1) Safe Routes to School - Infrastructure improvement and promotion programs for biking and walking to school. www.catsmpo.com/bikeped/saferoutes.htm

2) "Bike Lanes and Bike Paths - Where and How to Do Each" - Technical design workshop on how best to accommodate cyclists during roadway corridor projects.

3) Greenways and Trails Workshops - Topics and technical assistance for both new and veteran trail implementers.

Updates: Check www.bikelib.org

World & National News

SUPPORT H.R. 1265: THE BIKE COMMUTER ACT

The Bicycle Commuter Act, introduced by Reps. Blumenauer (D-OR) and Foley (R-FL), would let employers give employees a $65 per month tax benefit for commuting by bike to work. To support H.R. 1265 or learn more, click here.

NATIONAL STRATEGIES FOR ADVANCING BICYCLE SAFETY

Through the formation of the National Bicycle Safety Network, a coalition of public and private organizations and government agencies (including the League) has come together to make bicycling safer for all of us. The National Bicycle Safety Network, dedicated to increasing safe bicycle use through education and other means, has recently released its call to action entitled �National Strategies for Advancing Bicycle Safety�. Visit http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/bike to view the Strategies.