While I completely agree with Daryl's assessment different communities have different cultures, and many decisions affecting bicycle transportation are made at the local level, I would also like to emphasize another piece of his post:
"...keep in mind local policies are made and voted on locally." This is the crux of the issue. We need to act locally to voice our opinions. This doesn't mean leaving county, state, or federal decisions to others, but speaking to our representatives and decisions makers at all levels of government. Part of my job at Bicycle Federation has been to travel to other communities and help local activists, planners, health professionals, and transportation officials learn how to effect change. That can mean talking to each other, writing letters, attending meetings, putting on events, or just riding your bike where and when you want. The point is that WE are the decision makers. Telling our elected officials what we want is a central part of democracy and the US government. In my dual roles as a bicycle educator/advocate and elected official myself, I can tell you that a few people really can make a difference. If we want a change in spending, policy, or priorities, it is our duty as citizens to voice that opinion. -- Robbie Webber Bicycle Friendly Communities Coordinator Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin www.bfw.org 608-251-4456 (office) 608-233-1390 (home) _______________________________________________ Bikies mailing list [email protected] http://www.danenet.org/mailman/listinfo/bikies
