June 2009 - Bikeboard - lists.cheatlakeclear.org

Bike League Instructor Levels and Course Descriptions
by director 28 Jun '09

28 Jun '09

Good afternoon, My apologies for not getting this to you sooner, due to a combination of technical and cerebral difficulties. There is also course material on the LCI website, but it requires login with an LCI #. Positive Spin would be happy to order printed materials at cost if desired. We would keep them in our library where anyone can come read them anytime we're open. File is attached as a .pdf Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Seattle/Google Bikewise
by director 27 Jun '09

27 Jun '09

Good evening, More info about the new application developed by Seattle's Cascade Bike Club in this email I just received. I believe it addresses one of the concerns expressed about connecting this data to road maintenance authorities. btw It appears that it only accepts things in the Seattle area. My report for Morgantown (unresponsive light at Beechurst and 6th) didn't get mapped. Still, I think it's pretty cool. I mentioned it to a developer at Google that I met in San Jose. Hopefully it will spread soon. Nick ===================== snip ===================== Hello Bikewise! Since launching a month ago, nearly a thousand people have signed up and posted reports or registered bikes. We've gotten good media attention, from blogs to newspapers to TV news. Thanks to all of you (!), Bikewise now has crash, hazard, and theft reports from 25 U.S. states and 6 countries. But we're really just getting started. Here's what we're working on: Our top priority is making sure that the data you enter actually gets used to make streets safer and better for cycling. It's kind of amazing, but this is already happening. Here are some examples: * Kirkland, WA wants to integrate our hazard reporting system into its street maintenance operations. We're working with them to figure out how to do it. * Seattle, WA is also interested in integrating Bikewise reports into city operations. We're working with the head of traffic operations and road maintenance to make this happen. * A traffic engineer at the University of WA is starting research on using Bikewise crash data for street safety planning. Such planning normally relies solely on official police reports, which of course underreport bike crashes tremendously. Obviously, there's much more to come on all of this. It's not going to happen overnight, but it's happening. Our other top priority is making the Bikewise site useful and user-friendly. Since Bikewise went live, a lot of technical issues have been fixed and some new features have been added. In particular, you can now edit your own reports and you can set your default location. (So, if Google thinks you're in Poughkeepsie, you can tell it otherwise.) The big bug we fixed was photos - a setup issue on our production server was preventing photos from being saved. Sorry! If you uploaded a photo and it never appeared, give it another shot. Lots of other little bugs have also been fixed. Thanks to all who let us know about them! Last but not least, we've added some impressive bike safety content to our Resources pages. Please check it out ( http://www.bikewise.org/pub/simple/resources ) and let us know what you think. And remember to always Bike Wisely! Happy Cycling! Phil Mitchell and Tessa Greegor (Cascade Bicycle Club) -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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SF Bike Plan
by director 27 Jun '09

27 Jun '09

Good morning, In spite of some unfair political opposition San Francisco's city-wide bike plan passed yesterday with overwhelming city and community support. http://ecolocalizer.com/2009/06/26/sf-bike-plan-unanimously-approved-by-the… How do we get one of those? Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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BOPARC Representative
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 25 Jun '09

25 Jun '09

An interesting development for another possible ex officio. I just attended a Neighborhood Association potluck in Suncrest, and Ralph LaRue said he would be interested in representing BOPARC at our meetings after August 1st. -Jonathan

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Bike Route Meeting 6-17-09 Minutes
by Derek Springston 25 Jun '09

25 Jun '09

Hey guys, Attached are the minutes to our GIS/ Bike Route Meeting that was held on 6-17-09. For those that attended, check the minutes to make sure you approve and agree with Action Items and due dates, etc and reply to me. For those who didn't attend, take a look to see what we did. Thanks, ~Derek Springston _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail® has ever-growing storage! Don’t worry about storage limits. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/Storage?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutori…

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Modular bikepark/shower units on Treehugger
by director 22 Jun '09

22 Jun '09

Good evening, I just came across this while reading the news on Treehugger... http://www.treehugger.com/files/2009/06/solar-powered-bicycle-parking-pods-… Cool, huh? Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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House Transportation Bill and Safe Routes to School
by director 20 Jun '09

20 Jun '09

Good morning, I received this information on a new transportation bill being considered in Congress. Interesting aspects that directly address improved bike/ped infrastructure and programs. Nick Update on House Transportation Bill and Safe Routes to School June 19, 2009 Over the past few days, there has been a lot of movement on the transportation bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. On Thursday, June 18, Reps. Oberstar, Mica, DeFazio, and Duncan, who are the lead Democrats and Republicans on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, released a Blueprint of the transportation bill [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102616852275&s=2741&e=001gi-qANuZ0JyRsdDNpJVamlqS…]. The day before the Blueprint was unveiled, US Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood asked Congress to delay consideration of the transportation bill and to instead pass an 18-month extension of the current law. Chairman Oberstar and Ranking Member Mica were very firm in the need to move the transportation bill this year, and indicated that they plan to move forward with consideration of the transportation bill next week. While we do not yet have the text of the legislation, which is expected to be released early next week, the Blueprint provides an overview of the high-level changes the Committee will be looking to carry out. Of primary interest to Safe Routes to School supporters, the Blueprint indicates that the transportation bill will create an Office of Livability within the Federal Highway Administration. The office will administer bicycle and pedestrian programs, including Safe Routes to School and Transportation Enhancements. The office is charged with increasing modal choice, advancing livable communities, and promoting integrated land use and planning. Also under the Office's jurisdiction will be compilation and dissemination of best practices on active transportation, developing better data collection and analysis on active transportation, and requiring that all federal aid projects consider comprehensive street design principles, policies, and standards. The Office will also oversee the creation of the U.S. Bicycle Route System. While the details of any proposed changes to strengthen or expand Safe Routes to School will not be known until the legislative language is released, Safe Routes to School supporters should be pleased to see that the program is included in the Blueprint and is being placed with a new office that is charged with overseeing many other bicycle/pedestrian programs. The Safe Routes to School National Partnership will analyze the language of the legislative text as soon as it is released to assess which elements of our recommendations [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102616852275&s=2741&e=001gi-qANuZ0JxgQ7W1ARRJ0WuG… included, and will provide you with additional information as the details emerge. We may have a "call to action" for Safe Routes to School supporters next week, so please watch your email over the coming days. Thank you for your continued support and interest in Safe Routes to School. For questions, please contact Margo Pedroso at margo(a)saferoutespartnership.org [mailto:margo@saferoutespartnership.org]. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Forward email http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?m=1100380121653&ea=director@posit… This email was sent to director(a)positivespin.org by deb(a)saferoutespartnership.org. Update Profile/Email Address http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001JkPYvl9GdBxNH5I1lra7pqiG5gADO… Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe(TM) http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001JkPYvl9GdBxNH5I1lra7pqiG5gADO… Privacy Policy: http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp Email Marketing by Constant Contact(R) www.constantcontact.com Bikes Belong Coalition | P.O. Box 2359 | Boulder | CO | 80306 -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Seattle Trip Report
by director 20 Jun '09

20 Jun '09

Good morning, I'm currently travelling and have posted a mini-trip report (preliminary) about my visit to Seattle. It covers bike parking, bike paths, bike routes, urban cycling and interesting bike shops I visited while there. You can find it at: http://www.positivespin.org/PublicFiles/2009_0618_SeattleTripReport.pdf Please feel free to pass the link on to anyone else who might be interested. I'm currently in San Jose for the Smart Cycling conference of League instructors. I'll have a report on this next week after I return. See you then. Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Complete Streets action in Seattle
by director 18 Jun '09

18 Jun '09

Good evening, I just came across this blog via the Complete Streets newsletter. It's about a road I was biking/walking on Tuesday. This is a sorely-needed big improvement for this corridor. The concepts might work well at certain intersections along Beechurst/Mon Blvd as well. http://seattletransitblog.com/2009/06/15/358-bus-stop-plazas/#more-5653 Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Amputees Across America - July 10th
by Derek Springston 18 Jun '09

18 Jun '09

Hey guys, HealthSouth, where my wife works, is involved with Amputees Across America. I guess they'll be riding across the US and will come through Morgantown on July 10th. She invited me to ride with them at 11am on July 10th and asked for support. There are several college students who would like to ride with them but don't have bikes, so she thought I might know some folks who could help. Angie is planning on contacting at least Positive Spin. It seems like they could help with getting folks bikes to ride for the day. Maybe we can offer support just as cyclists. #1 What would the Bike Board like to do about this? #2 Would this be better suited for Positive Spin? Have a nice day! ~Derek _________________________________________________________________ Bing™ brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now. http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT…

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GIS Bike Route Meeting tonight...
by Derek Springston 17 Jun '09

17 Jun '09

Hey guys, I just wanted to remind everyone that there is a GIS Bike Route Meeting tonight at 5:30pm in the Training Room of the PSC Building. Please attend if you wish to have input. Brainstorm and bring some ideas, too! I'll do the same today and print out a few maps with the most current info I have. If I left anyone off of the list, please let me know. Thanks! Hope to see you tonight, ~Derek _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that’s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290

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FW: FREE Mountainline Thursday...
by Derek Springston 16 Jun '09

16 Jun '09

Hey, Thursday is Mountain Line Transit’s ‘Dump the Pump’ Day. They’re offering FREE bus rides with a coupon. Make sure you take one for each ride, both to and from your destinations. You can also print them from their website: http://www.busride.org/ I can print more if you guys need me to. If you do use this, let me know. I'll likely still be riding my bike unless the weather is bad, but it's a great option for transportation. ~Derek S. _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail® has ever-growing storage! Don’t worry about storage limits. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/Storage?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutori…

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Bike Route GIS Meeting...
by Derek Springston 15 Jun '09

15 Jun '09

Hey guys, I guess since I'm the mapping guy, I'll take the lead for the creation of the Bike Route map! :) As discussed during the meeting on Thursday, a few of us need to meet to discuss how to create this map, what the criteria will be for a 'route', and various other issues. First, lets identify those of us who would like to meet. During the meeting, these names were mentioned: Derek Springston - volunteered to help Frank Gmeindl - volunteered Jacob Brown - volunteered Don Dickerson - Frank suggested that Don should be involved since he helped with an earlier drafts Gunnar Shogren - Frank suggested Gunnar I believe it may be beneficial to contact these people as well: Steve Harouff Will Ravenscroft Chet Parsons So, who is willing to meet within the next week or two? Please let me know if you're not interested, so I won't keep sending emails. Then, we'll establish a time. Thanks, ~Derek _________________________________________________________________ Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail®. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutor…

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cell phone
by Frank Gmeindl 13 Jun '09

13 Jun '09

Bicycle Board Members, So, you think you can talk on the cell phone, even hands free and drive safely? Watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubNF9QNEQLA and be entertained. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Fwd: June Minutes
by Elizabeth Shogren 12 Jun '09

12 Jun '09

Attached, please find the June minutes. Have a great weekend! BETSY

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Re: [Bikeboard] Bike Wise - It's Everywhere!
by director 10 Jun '09

10 Jun '09

Good morning, I should have read the article before I posted. The Bikewise site defaults to Seattle, but actually is available anywhere there is Google map info. You can register, set your default location, and then put in reports about thefts, hazards, crashes and annoyances. I tested it by reporting the light at 6th and Beechurst that doesn't respond to bicyclists waiting to cross the thoroughfare. I'd encourage everyone else to share as much info as you have so that others can benefit from it. As the article states, there is no official link to authorities that can do road repairs or engineering to address problems. However, there's the opportunity for authorities to take it upon themselves if they monitor the site. Hope this helps. Nick ---------- Original Message ---------------------------------- From: "director" <director(a)positivespin.org> Reply-To: director(a)positivespin.org Date: Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:31:42 -0400 >Good morning, >On one of the environmental websites I read regularly this news item appeared today. I'll be out there next week and will check into it further. Chances are that I know someone in the program if anyone would like more info on it. > >http://ecolocalizer.com/2009/06/10/bikewise-community-makes-cycling-safer/ > >Nick > >-- >Nick Hein LCI# 1705 >Director, Positive Spin >2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L >Morgantown, WV >ph 304-276-0213 >-- > >_______________________________________________ >Bikeboard mailing list >Bikeboard(a)cheat.org >http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard > -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Bike Wise - Seattle collaborative cyclist reporting program
by director 10 Jun '09

10 Jun '09

Good morning, On one of the environmental websites I read regularly this news item appeared today. I'll be out there next week and will check into it further. Chances are that I know someone in the program if anyone would like more info on it. http://ecolocalizer.com/2009/06/10/bikewise-community-makes-cycling-safer/ Nick -- Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 2567 Univ Ave Ste 6000L Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 --

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Trail closure
by Frank Gmeindl 09 Jun '09

09 Jun '09

Monday, 8-June 4:00 PM at the Morgantown Public Safety Center (corner Spruce & Walnut diagonally across from Blue Moose) representatives of BOPARC and MUB will attend the regularly scheduled Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board meeting to discuss MUB plans to close the rail trail to upgrade the water treatment system and install a new sewer pipe. The meeting is open to the public. At last night's Traffic Commission meeting, I learned that City Council directed BOPARC to work with the relevant parties to develop a plan. Perhaps Monday's meeting is one step that BOPARC is taking to make that plan. To my knowledge, BOPARC has not contacted anyone on the Bicycle Board. (Remember the trail stripe?) At last night's Traffic Commission meeting, the Bicycle Board presented the following recommendations: 1. Establish cycling detours around the trail but as close to the trail as reasonable. 2. Complete the work in sections to minimize the impact on cyclists and businesses. At least 6 months before the trail is closed: 3. Install "Share the Road" and "Bike Route" signs every 250 feet on Beechurst Ave., Mon Blvd., Don Knotts Blvd. and University Ave. 4. Install a bike lane going up the hill on Mon Blvd. between Eighth St. and Evansdale Drive. Keep the bike lane free of debris. The current shoulder is not properly paved and it certainly is not clean. The Traffic Commission unanimously voted to recommend to the City that the City request the WVDOH to implement recommendations 3 and 4 ASAP. (The way has already been somewhat cleared for implementing Share the Road signs since the WVDOH has already said that they will install them at their expense. In May 2008, the DOH approved the Share the Road signs on Mon Blvd and Don Knotts Blvd. as well as other Bicycle Board recommended Morgantown-area state-maintained roads with speed limits at or above 40 mph. However, the signs weren't installed because they were part of a greater package that included Shared Lane Markings and Bicycles May Use Full Lane signs that the DOH also approved in May 2008 but then reconsidered in October 2008 because the new Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices that defines SLMs and BMUFL signs hasn't been adopted by the state yet. The Share the Road signs was the WVDOH's idea in the first place so getting them to install them should not be difficult if they are requested as a separate stand-alone project.) At last night's Traffic Commission meeting, some of the commissioners were not aware of MUBs plan to close the trail. One commissioner, John Martis, vehemently objected to closing the trail and insisted that MUB accomplish the work without closing the trail. He will attend Monday's meeting. The Traffic Commission decided to hold Bicycle Board recommendations 1 and 2 in abeyance until after Monday's meeting. On July 16, City Council will decide whether to accept BOPARC's plan. On July 21, City Council will make its final decision on whether to approve MUB's project. Frank Gmeindl Chariman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles /- John Forester, /Effective Cycling/

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[Fwd: American Bicyclist Update---June 8, 2009]
by Frank Gmeindl 08 Jun '09

08 Jun '09

Bicycle Board Members, I'm forwarding the LAB online newsletter to you in case you're not an LAB member and don't get it. If you already get it, I apologize for cluttering your in-box with a duplicate. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/ -------- Original Message -------- Subject: American Bicyclist Update---June 8, 2009 Date: Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:58:21 -0400 (EDT) From: League of American Bicyclists <bikeleague(a)bikeleague.org> Reply-To: meghan(a)bikeleague.org To: fgmeindl(a)verizon.net Having trouble viewing this email? Click here <http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=0015ak-Six2vtoh5tjsNSD0TSmok18…> You're receiving this email because of your relationship with League of American Bicyclists. Please confirm <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/c.jsp?t=1102604707848.12818.8512558115.2…> your continued interest in receiving email from us. You may unsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> if you no longer wish to receive our emails. American Bicyclists Update Archives <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKQzLNDPKfIteu…> *June 8, 2009 * * * *Greetings!* Two weeks ago we reported on Energy Secretary Chu's love of bicycling - news that was quickly followed by the revelation that Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor also enjoys a spin around the neighborhood. Click here <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLnSxQM37rhLd8…> for the AP article. Seems like the timing for our Equality Statement <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLQZPYJqTaUlZZ…> was pretty good! Sincerely, Andy Clark President, League of American Bicyclists *League News* * * *Smart Cycling Conference * Smart Cycling Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKIzNEPODlqFPP…>There are less than two weeks to go to the Smart Cycling Conference <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKIzNEPODlqFPP…> in San Jose - so check out the exciting program, various riding opportunities and area attractions, and sign up at the competitive conference rates that are good through June 12. We're looking forward to lively educational sessions, and you'll be the first to learn who the recipients are of two of the League's prestigious national awards. There's also a Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, June 18! Register <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKIzNEPODlqFPP…> for the conference today! Thank you to our Sponsors NBDA <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLz-MI_WJZbwBK…> and CycleAware <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJEpQ9Y6x9jvpx…>! *League 2009 Rally * League Logo and Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLBhfdl5Rl4Pf4…>Registration is now open for Weekend on Wheels <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLMQLCbIcWCeNe…> 2009 <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLMQLCbIcWCeNe…> - the League National Rally of Bicyclists. The Twin Cities Bicycling Club, in partnership with the League and the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, is the proud host of the National Rally at the annual WOW event, July 31 through August 2 in Winona, Minn. The weekend is jam-packed with activities. There will be three full days of riding with route support and full-service rest stops. Routes will be from 25 to 62 miles Friday and Sunday, and 25 to 100 miles on Saturday. For mountain bikers, check out the great trails around Winona on Saturday afternoon. Go to www.bikewow.org <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLBhfdl5Rl4Pf4…> for more information. World News *There is Safety in Numbers * In a comparison of cycle use and cyclists' safety in English cities and counties, CTC - the UK's national cyclists' organization, has found new evidence that cycling gets safer the more cyclists there are. The data show that the places with the highest cycle use - York, Cambridgeshire and Hull - are also the safest places to cycle. Also, in London there has been a 91% increase in cycle use since 2000, together with a 33% reduction in the actual number of cyclist casualties over roughly the same period. This adds weight to international evidence that the best way to improve cyclists' safety is to encourage more people to cycle. Source ctc.org <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLv1QZ9aLvM0eq…> National News Proposal to End Federal Funding for Bike Projects* * Representatives John Boehner (R-OH) and Eric Cantor (R-VA) proposed putting a stop to Federal funding for bicycle projects and programs. In a letter to President Obama <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLL2B_F_M-Y5KW…>, the two leading House Republicans proposed cutting all funding for Transportation Enhancements <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJe13B5CQbUyem…>, Safe Routes to Schools <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjIidtf8dsxqZD0…> and Nonmotorized pilot programs <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJzQdnicN22PlD…> in the President's budget - more than $5 billion over the next five years. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKpgVbgbQTJzHS…>. *Federal Transportation Policy and Planning Act of 2009 * Senator John D. Rockefeller, IV (D-WV), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, introduced The Federal Surface Transportation Policy and Planning Act of 2009. One major goals of the act is to reduce national per capita motor vehicle miles traveled on an annual basis. Read the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation's press release <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJ8NQIBQplNXQ3…>. Read more at Transportation for America <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjI1q1J0w87eS9_…>. * *Blumenauer's Three Specific Initiatives * * Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) recently revealed his current top three initiatives. The first is what Blumenauer calls a "visible achievement project." The project would put bike lanes on Pennsylvania Ave. in Washington, D.C - a high profile pr move. It's one of the most famous streets in America; it's home to the White House, numerous federal office buildings, and it leads directly into the U.S. Capitol building. The next priority Blumenauer shared is his desire to set a national goal for biking. The idea here is to set a reachable target for advocates (both inside and outside of government) to shoot for in the re-write of the new transportation bill. The final national priority Blumenauer said he's working on is to expand the Safe Routes to Schools program into high schools and the American workplace. Safe Routes was funded with $600 million in the last transportation bill but is currently only focused on elementary schools. The Safe Routes to Schools National Partnership is already backing a new bill <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLT2Kt2vgZTR8Z…> that would triple funding for the program and take it into high schools. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJ7jVabk0m5hZg…>. *State & Local News* * * * *Safe Passing Bill Passes Texas House and Senate* * The final version of Texas' Safe Passing Bill, SB 488, was passed May 31, 2009 by the Texas House, and the Senate overwhelmingly voted to pass it on June 1, 2009. That was the final step for the bill to complete in the Legislature and now it is being sent to Governor Perry. We will know the outcome by June 21, the last day the Governor can sign or veto bills. Read <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLn8WJv8ZAjMX1…> the bill. Westchester Cycle Club in a Rumble over Rumble Strips The Westchester Cycle Club filed a lawsuit against the New York State Department of Transportation based upon accidents involving rumble strips along a rustic stretch of Route 100. Rumble strips, an audible road delineator that ridges the area parallel to highways and is meant to startle dozing drivers and keep them on the road, are usually confined to heavily trafficked highways but they are becoming more popular on smaller roads. Visit the Westchester Cycle Club <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLZ0awm88nKUI4…>. Source: New York Times <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjK89TFvwko_PWY…> Complete Streets in Philadelphia* * Philadelphia was recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community on June 4, 2009 as the League of American Bicyclists presented Mayor Michael A. Nutter with the League's prestigious Bicycle Friendly Community Award at the Bronze Level. Mayor Nutter also signed Philadelphia's first Complete Streets Executive Order which makes full consideration of cyclists, pedestrians and public transit users an integral part of streets planning by City Departments and agencies. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjIe-SRCAtNWVYp…>. Visit the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philidelphia <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjIwFCv9OJso61w…>. Tempe's New Transportation Hub* * The City of Tempe, Ariz. and ValleyMetro, the transit authority that provides the region's new light rail system, have just created a new facility that incorporates smart growth, green building and sustainable transportation. The Tempe Transportation Center and the Metro light rail line opened this past December. Source: tempe.gov <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLeVIpRrLPKI5b…>. Mississippi Update* * Oxford, Miss., the state's first Bicycle Friendly Community, is part of Mississippi's efforts to certify 30 new safety instructors, both to make biking safer in the state and to promote more use of biking for recreation and transportation. The Mississippi Department of Transportation's Safe Routes to School program is sponsoring the training in conjunction with Bike Walk Mississippi. "In exchange for support from the Mississippi Department of Transportation for the training, each participant will commit to providing five courses in the coming year to local schools, youth groups and community organizations," said Dr. Mike Mossing, chairman of Oxford's Pathways Commission. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKszX0Q_NlkFk0…>. Visit Bike Walk Mississippi <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKMFonrE-xkvE2…>. San Francisco Bicycle Coalition's free Urban Cycling Workshop* * The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJ4Dtx6kbqVFr6…> hosts two part bike education classes for adults to teach safe and confident urban cycling. The urban cycling workshops are free. Read more about these classes in the San Francisco Chronicle article "Safe Streets: Workshops Help Cyclists Trim Risk." <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJUArhsB8BEO0q…> Miami Valley Cycling Summit* * Join forces with cycling enthusiasts, public officials and advocacy groups from around the Miami Vally, Ohio region in their efforts to make Miami Valley the first bike friendly region in Ohio. The Miami Valley Cycling Summit will provide engaging workshops, roundtables, presentations and much more. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLEMzoaeYGusG1…>. *Other News* * * The Alliance for Biking & Walking is Awarding Seven Grants * * The Alliance for Biking & Walking <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLyMhmDx7PCDag…> is awarding seven grants totaling over $125,000 to grassroots biking and walking advocacy organizations. The Advocacy Advance Grants will be used to jump-start emerging advocacy organizations and to fund innovative campaigns with the potential to dramatically increase biking and walking. These grants are a key part of the Advocacy Advance Partnership with the League of American Bicyclists. Launched this year, the grants are made possible with generous funding by SRAM, Planet Bike, Bikes Belong, and Cannondale. Nearly 100 proposals totaling over $2 million were received in this first round. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKmtO5PVIjyKDx…>. *Employment* * * League Job Opportunity* * The League is hiring a Membership Director. The primary objective of this position is to manage all functions related to membership, including but not limited to the recruitment, retention and engagement of members. Read more <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJ_c2IZ0xEA1kd…>. The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of America's 57 million bicyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjICZhQ3U2pcbgZ…>. *In This Issue* *Smart Cycling Conference <#LETTER.BLOCK32>* *2009 League Rally <#LETTER.BLOCK51>* *Safety in Numbers <#LETTER.BLOCK34>* *Proposal to End Federal Funding for Bike Projects <#LETTER.BLOCK49>* *Federal Transportation Policy & Planning Act <#LETTER.BLOCK50>* *Blumenauer's Wish List <#LETTER.BLOCK52>* *Safe Passing Bill in Texas <#LETTER.BLOCK53>* *Rumble over Rumble Strips <#LETTER.BLOCK47>* *Philadelphia Complete Steets <#LETTER.BLOCK39>* *Tempe Transportation Hub <#LETTER.BLOCK65>* *Mississippi Update <#LETTER.BLOCK55>* *Urban Cycling Workshops <#LETTER.BLOCK60>* *Miami Valley Cycling Summit <#LETTER.BLOCK61>* *Alliance for Biking & Walking Awarding Grants <#LETTER.BLOCK63>* *League Job Opportunity <#LETTER.BLOCK59>* *League on Facebook & Twitter! <#LETTER.BLOCK56>* *Donate to the League <#LETTER.BLOCK30>* Bicycle City Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLE97dgfXq4-MU…> Planet Bike Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKRBzrD-JCDTCw…> http://www.abbike.com/ <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJgqpPDPxyhT4h…> USA Cycling Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJ2UUivTpwrPTK…> *Quick Links* Join the League <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLehJe_ej2qOKV…> Sign up to Receive Enews <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKs75UFf5xo_jm…> Cycling in Your Area <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJXEaYWbzZzpdt…> Search our Website <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjKGftNy4AESDwv…> Bike League Facebook Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLv7uykULNSPOP…> Twitter Bike League Link <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjJCAsk-CEzwZTH…> Join Our Mailing List <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/email.jsp?m=1102316596448> LAB Donation LInk <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLt4_h3SyAmn_4…> Help protect the rights of cyclists across the nation: Donate today! <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102604707848&s=12818&e=0010DyX7V5LfjLt4_h3SyAmn_4…> Forward email <http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?m=1102316596448&ea=fgmeindl%40ver…> Safe Unsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> This email was sent to fgmeindl(a)verizon.net by bikeleague(a)bikeleague.org <mailto:bikeleague@bikeleague.org>. Update Profile/Email Address <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…> | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?v=001bAhAGGXw8y9W9M9YbKidzcT7aySKB…>^(TM) | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp>. Email Marketing <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> by <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> League of American Bicyclists | 1612 K Street NW | Suite 800 | Washington | DC | 20006

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Draft Letter to WVDOT
by Frank Gmeindl 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Damien, Thank you for spending so much time with me yesterday to discuss the trail closing issue and the Traffic Commission's decision to recommend Share the Road signs and a bike lane. As I agreed during our discussion yesterday, I have attached to this message a draft letter to Secretary of the WVDOT requesting these. I hope this will at least give you a head start on implementing their recommendation. The attached letter is not entirely consistent with the Traffic Commission's recommendation or our discussion yesterday. As I was writing it, I had much more time to consider what we're recommending and how we're recommending it. You will notice that while the Bicycle Board's recommendation that the Traffic Commission endorsed included Bike Route signs in addition to the Share the Road signs. Bike Route signs are not addressed in the attached draft letter. Upon much more consideration and study of the MUTCD and AASHTO Guide for Development of Bicycle Facilities, I concluded that Bike Route signs are not appropriate and may retard WVDOT's action on the Share the Road signs and the bike lane. Basically, Bike Route signs indicate that the signed route is superior to alternative proximal routes. Given the motor traffic volume, real motor vehicle speeds and questionable aesthetics on South University Avenue, Beechurst Ave. and Mon Blvd., it would probably only be appropriate to label those roadways as Bike Route *Detours *if indeed the rail trail had already been signed as a bike route as it should be. Yesterday, I explained that installing Share the Road signs on state maintained Morgantown roadways that have speed limits greater than or equal to 40 mph was the idea of the WVDOH representatives with whom Don Spencer and Jenny Selin met February 28, 2009 in Charleston to expedite approval of the Shared Lane Markings (SLM). I also explained that when Paul Maddox retracted his approval of the Shared Lane Markings, he did not explicitly address the Share the Road signs which were part of the overall package: SLMs, Bicycles May Use Full Lane (BMUFL) signs and Share the Road signs. Yesterday, you and I agreed that the letter should cite that previous approval of the Share the Road signs. Again, upon further deliberation, I decided not to include mention of the previous approval in the attached letter because I thought disassociating the Share the Road signs from the SLMs and BMUFL signs would avoid their being set aside until the SLM and BMUFL signs issue is resolved which may take another 1.5 years. On the other hand, vocally and informally reminding the appropriate WVDOH officials such a Bill Robinson who participated in the February 28 meeting that the Share the Road signs was their idea might help expedite them if progress slows. Of course, the attached letter is for the City Manager's signature and I and the Bicycle Board as well as probably the Traffic Commission realize that he can modify it as he pleases. I think we all share the same objective, to facilitate safe bicycling in Morgantown and however the letter is finally worded, it will align with that objective. Just as a reminder, we discussed including a map with the letter and you mentioned that you could generate the map. I hope the information in the draft letter is sufficient for you to make the map. Also, a Bicycle Board member questioned whether the letter should include the cited parts of the MUTCD and AASHTO Guide for Development of Bicycle Facilities. I did not include these because I'm not sure I have the most recent official versions. If you think we should attach these and you don't have the most recent and official versions, I will do what I can to get them and provide them to you. Thanks again for working with us on this! I look forward to seeing what actually goes forward. Frank

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Letter to DOH for STR signs & bike lane
by Frank Gmeindl 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Bicycle Board Members, Today, I agreed with Damien Davis of the City Engineer's office to draft a letter for the City to send to the WVDOT requesting Share the Road signs and a bike lane for Mon Blvd. to support the Traffic Commissions decision last night to support these. Attached is the draft letter. *Does anybody have an electronic copy of the AASHTO guidelines for Bicycle Facility design that you can send me or point me to so I can cite relevant sections for bike lane design?* Also, I would appreciate any constructive edits you could make and return to me by early afternoon tomorrow, Friday. (Please use Track Changes.) I want to get this to Damien Davis by COB tomorrow. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Tonight's report to TC
by Frank Gmeindl 03 Jun '09

03 Jun '09

Bicycle Board Members, May I have your concurrence to present the attached report to the Traffic Commission tonight? Frank

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Fwd: letter to the editor
by Jim Rye 03 Jun '09

03 Jun '09

Having seen nothing in the DP subsequent to mailing our BTW results to the newsroom, I created a modified version (below) as a letter to the editor, sent today. Jim Rye Professor Science Education Dept C&I/LS College of Human Resources & Education West Virginia University PO Box 6122 604L Allen Hall Morgantown, WV 26506-6122 Phone: (304) 293-4416 Fax: (304) 293-3802 Email: jim.rye(a)mail.wvu.edu Web Page: http://depts.hre.wvu.edu/c&ils/currinst/rye.html Are YOU waitin' for the world to change? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPOBMzMTP4U ECAS/HRE NSF-Supported WV Watershed Dynamics Project http://www.wvscience.org/wvwatershed/ >>> Jim Rye 6/3/2009 11:12 AM >>> Dear Editor, Is there one technology that YOU could use to lose/keep off unhealthy amounts of body fat, improve your mental health, save money, reduce traffic congestion, decrease your carbon/ecological footprint, and feel good about being more physically fit and helping our country reduce its dependence on foreign oil? Yes: the BICYCLE. In response to the DP announcement (5/12/09) of May 11-15 "Bike to Work Week" Morgantown events, 25 area residents planned to bike commute to work at least twice (and most, daily) during that week. Distances ranged from 2 to 28 miles for the daily commute and 4 to 80 miles for the entire week. Over the entire week, this group planned to bike commute to work 826 miles, which would result in: saving approximately 41 gallons of gasoline (by leaving their cars at home); reducing carbon dioxide auto emissions by 826 lbs; and burning almost 24,000 additional food Calories, equal to what are found in about 7 lbs of body fat. At http://wecan.wvu.edu/biketowork , you can download an "advanced log" that will estimate your own statistics based on the distances that you bicycle commute. WE CAN make a difference! Consider this: If our group maintained this bicycle commuting for a full year, it would conserve over 2,100 gallons of gasoline and reduce carbon dioxide auto emissions by over 21 tons. What if our group size of bicycle commuters increased from 25 to 250? Over a year, we'd save over 21,000 gallons of gasoline and reduce auto carbon dioxide emissions by 210 tons. WEIGHT, THERE'S MORE...about those Calories in the 7 lb of adipose tissue burned by our bicycle commuters. Over a year, this is the equivalent of over 14 lb per person. Over 5 years, this type of healthy behavior could prevent the gain or facilitate the loss of almost 70 lb in an individual. Oh...in case you think you're too old: Our commuters were far from "spring chickens," with over 30% in the 50-70 year old range. Over 60% of the participants now plan to bicycle commute to work more frequently. Here's more of what they told us: "I enjoyed every bit of commuting last week. I usually commute 2-3 times a week by bike, but last week I made it all five days. Bike-To-Work week motivated me...and I will try to do this more!" "Having a designated week reminds people to give it a try and it lets them know how easy it is." "Every week is bike to work week." Imagine a Morgantown with little traffic congestion during rush hours, better air quality, a healthier citizenry, more green space...the bicycle really is a magnificent piece of technology to solve much of what ails us. WE CAN! Please, become an advocate for bicycling as a means of local transportation, if for no other reason, so we don't continue to "Pave [our children's] paradise, put up a parking lot" -Joni Mitchell. -Jim Rye 692-0982 or 293-4416

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Trail closure
by Frank Gmeindl 02 Jun '09

02 Jun '09

Bicycle Board Members, Thanks for your responses concerning MUB closing the trail to install a sewer pipe. As usual, the Traffic Commission meets the day before we meet. I usually deliver a written report. I'm working on that and probably won't complete it until late tonight. In the meantime, with your concurrence, I would like to include the attached with the report. Please let me know what you think ASAP. I tried to include your comments on the subject. I will also send you the complete report when I complete it. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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Fwd: FW: NYTimes.com: Bike Messenger
by Jim Rye 02 Jun '09

02 Jun '09

BOOKS / SUNDAY BOOK REVIEW | May 31, 2009 Bike <http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/31/books/review/Byrne-t.html?emc=eta1> Messenger By DAVID BYRNE An argument for commuters to ditch the car in favor of the bicycle, for the sake of cities and health alike. <http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/misc/spacer.gif> <http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/misc/spacer.gif> Copyright <http://www.nytimes.com/ref/membercenter/help/copyright.html> 2009 The New York Times Company <http://www.nytco.com/> | Privacy <http://www.nytimes.com/ref/membercenter/help/privacy.html> Policy <http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/misc/spacer.gif> <http://www.nytimes.com/adx/bin/adx_remote.html?type=noscript&page=emailthis .nytimes.com/openrate&posall=Bottom1&pos=Bottom1&query=qstring&keywords=>

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BB members in the news
by Frank Gmeindl 01 Jun '09

01 Jun '09

Betsy and gunnar on the Front page of VeloNews: http://velonews.com/article/92650/bishop-outfoxes-a-small-group-in-the-fina… Frank

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Next week's Bicycle Board meeting
by Frank Gmeindl 31 May '09

31 May '09

Bicycle Board Members, Please reply ASAP with any recommended agenda items for our next Thursday, 6/4 meeting. Attached is a preliminary draft. With your reply, please include the desired outcome of your topic and the amount of time that you estimate to achieve the desired outcome. Also, kudos to Chip for making a mock up of the post-and-loop bicycle parking device and kudos to Chip, Derek, gunnar and Marilyn for taking photos of each and every downtown bicycle parking space and getting them up on the City's web site: http://www.morgantown.com/bike-board-documents/tm/index.htm . Please contact Chip if you have any comments on the racks or their locations. Frank /Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles/

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