Action 1: Community Leaders' Ride
Community leaders will have the opportunity to experience issues people face on a bicycle first-hand with a guided bicycle ride.
Philadelphia mayor Michael Nutter (center) bikes with other dignitaries after the 2015 launch of the Indego bikeshare system. (Screencap: Streetfilms)
About This Action
To truly understand the issues people on bicycles face, community leaders will have the opportunity to experience these obstacles firsthand-on a guided bike ride. This action step has been implemented by advocacy organizations such as BikeTexas in its “VIP Bike Rides.” Key decision makers should be encouraged to participate in these rides, including elected officials, traffic enforcement officers, transportation engineers, business leaders, and community leaders.
Rides will be easy for riders of all skill levels and highlight the best and the worst of bike infrastructure in and around Ithaca. The route, skill level of participants, availability of bicycles, and availability of ride leaders and topic experts should be considered. Depending on the public exposure sought for the ride, media may be contacted to participate or document the ride. The goal of these rides is to improve understanding of issues among community leaders, particularly those who may not use a bicycle on a regular basis, particularly those who may not use a bicycle on a regular basis.
Brighton, NY supervisor William Moehle (left) and Rochester, NY mayor Lovely Warren (second left) on a bike ride during Bike to Work Day. (Photo: Democrat & Chronicle)
Let’s Make It Happen
Ride opportunities with appropriate COVID-19 safety accommodations are being considered for 2021. Bicycle rides with community leaders will highlight routes on the Better Bike Network and problematic areas for bicycle riders in and around Ithaca.
Are you an engaged resident with a story to tell about a particular street or intersection, or who would greatly benefit from the implementation of the Core Bikeway Network? Contact us to be part of the next bike ride in the relevant area.
Are you a community leader or elected official interested in participating in the next bike ride in your jurisdiction? Let’s find a time to get started.d
All Evaluation & Planning Actions
