Bike Month brings latest ranking from League of American Bicyclists
Kicking off National Bike Month, the League of American Bicyclists has released its latest ranking of Bicycle Friendly States. In the seventh annual assessment, Georgia achieved a 26th place ranking nationally, while placing 4th in the South and receiving 38.57 points out of 100.
“We are excited and encouraged to see real progress in states like California, Minnesota and Utah,” said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists. “Overall, we still see a lot of opportunity to realize the huge potential of bicycling to promote health, economic development, and quality of life.”
The Bicycle Friendly States ranking is based on a number of key indicators, including infrastructure and funding that provide on-the-ground bicycle facilities; education and encourage programs that promote cycling; and passage and enforcement of bicycle-friendly laws that make it safe and comfortable for people of all ages to ride. In the policy arena, Georgia excels, boasting one of the nation’s most forward thinking state-level “Complete Streets” policies. State funding to proactively implement safer roadways for all users is an area where Georgia needs improvement. Another strength identified for Georgia is its strong and growing network of over two dozen local bicycle safety organizations, which collaborate with Georgia Bikes for statewide improvements to infrastructure and law enforcement.
“Georgia is hungry for bicycle improvements,” says Georgia Bikes Executive Director Brent Buice. “Bicycle ridership is higher than ever – for both transportation and recreation, cities are passing ‘Complete Streets’ policies across the state, and enthusiastic, grassroots advocacy organizations are fostering tangible improvements to the quality of life of cities from Rome to Savannah. Now is the time for Georgia to invest in safe, healthy, economically vibrant communities.”
The BFS program is more than an annual assessment. Throughout the year, League staff will work actively with state officials and advocacy leaders to help Georgia identify and implement the programs, policies and campaigns that will improve conditions for bicyclists.
Learn more about the BFS program here.
About the Bicycle Friendly America Program
The Bicycle Friendly Community, Bicycle Friendly State, Bicycle Friendly Business and Bicycle Friendly University programs are generously supported by program partner Trek Bicycle. Learn more about the Bicycle Friendly America program at www.bikeleague.org/bfa.