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 With
environmental issues becoming an increasingly important issue in
international political forums, federal, and local government is
starting to take an increasingly active role in find more
environmentally friendly solutions to infrastructure problems. The
seemingly endless increase in motorized transport has put a huge strain
on the road systems of most if not all cities in North America, and
cycling has become a part of the solution. The result has been an
unparalleled growth in cycling lanes and multi-use pathways in an
attempt to draw people out of their vehicles and onto their bikes. The
potential results seem to be a win win win to all concerned. Reduced
emissions, less traffic, and the obvious health benefits that can come
from riding a bicycle. However, some cities are better than others for
making bicycling safe on the roads. Here are some of the best of them:
Portland
Portland is quickly becoming a model for other North American cities
aspiring to turn their own towns into spaces in which bikes, cars and
pedestrians can co-habit in harmony. Quite apart from the sheer amount
of cyclists on the streets, Portland benefits from seemingly endless
miles of cycle lanes and paths, and almost everything you look at is set
up to cater for the cyclist and his mount. Bicycle racks, drinking
fountains and a public transport system that is set up to carry bicycles
anywhere are just some of the features that make Portland a cyclist’s
favorite.
Seattle
In many respects, Seatltle and Portland are competitors in the
friendliest sense. But one of Seattle’s ambitions in the battle of these
Northwest cities is to better Portland as a bicycle friendly city.
Seattle is already a fun place to ride a bicycle. Although it is a busy
city, there are well marked cycling lanes and plenty of safer routes for
cyclists to choose downtown and beyond. The city itself continues to
develop as a bike friendly place with the City Council putting its money
where its mouth is by planning to add a further 450 miles of bike paths.
Also, Seattle, like Portland has an extremely vibrant competitive
cycling scene. Whether its cyclocross, road biking, mountain biking or
even track, there is a style of cycling to suit your taste, and a level
to suit your ability.
Chicago
It is no secret that the Mayor of the Windy City is a dedicated road
cyclist, and that has been reflected in Chicago’s development as a good
place to ride your bicycle. As with most cities, Chicago’s bike lanes
are increasing, but the town has gone the extra mile with a Bike Station
in Millennium Park that provides not only parking for 300 bicycles, but
also lockers, showers, and a snack bar with outdoor summer seating, bike
repair and bike rental. You can ride your bike downtown, park it in a
safe environment and shower so that you are ready for work, all in the
same place. The commitment to bringing cycling to the city center has
also included hosting high profile events such as the downtown Chicago
Criterium.
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