A list of ways people can enhance their biking experience, appreciate the joy of cycling, and support safer bike infrastructure.
“Instead of setting up for potential failure with lofty goals, we have crafted a set of resolutions focused on amplifying the shared love of cycling for a happy bicycle new year,” writes Ron Johnson in Momentum.
Among Johnson’s suggestions: take “aimless, social bike rides” that have no other purpose than to get on your bike and connect with friends and neighbors. If you associate biking with the drudgery of your commute, a social ride with new friends could reignite the spark of joy that you may have lost as a jaded bike commuter.
Johnson also suggests learning about bike maintenance, taking a bike tour (whether a cross-country trip or a two-day jaunt), prioritizing cycling when possible, and exploring night riding. Importantly, Johnson adds, people can advocate for improved bike infrastructure and safety to make cycling safer for everyone. “Whether it’s participating in organized rides, supporting bike-friendly policies, or volunteering time to promote cycling awareness, try to contribute to making their community more bicycle-friendly.”
May this year bring not only pedal-powered adventures but also a deepening appreciation for the incredible journey that is life on two wheels.
FULL STORY: 12 Resolutions for a Very Bicycle New Year
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
The state-sanctioned urbicide of Austin
People don’t kill cities. Freeways do.
US to reduce Colorado River water deliveries to Mexico
A new Colorado Treaty amendment reduces Mexico’s Colorado River water allocation by 250,000 acre feet.
5 New England states march closer to 800 megawatt wind energy project
Securing federal approval for the project may be complicated under the Trump administration, which has historically been hostile towards domestic wind power.
Baltimore to break ground on $50 million Transit Priority Project
The project will bring faster bus trips, safer streets and better bike connections to Baltimore.
Airbnb launches $250 million 'last-dollar financing' housing accelerator, makes first investment in Austin
The company will put $6.4 million towards affordable housing development in Texas’ capital.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.
Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
Eagle County Government
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
Nashville Planning Department
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello
Journal of the American Planning Association