![\"Bicycle](\"https:\/\/discerningcyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Bicycle-lane-city-street-cycling-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\nHow to Get Bike Lanes in Your Area<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThere are plenty of ways to help champion bike lanes<\/a> and pressure councils to implement more of them in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n1. Understand the Local Landscape<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDive into your city\u2019s urban planning history, zoning laws, and infrastructure challenges. Every city is unique, and knowing the specifics of yours can make your advocacy more relevant and powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Identify Key Decision-Makers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFind out who your city council members, traffic engineers, and urban planners are. Understanding who holds the power to make changes is the first step in knowing whom to approach with your proposals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Engage with Civic Bodies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBecome an active participant in your city\u2019s civic life. Attend city council meetings, transportation advisory board meetings, and other relevant gatherings where infrastructure decisions are discussed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Educate Yourself and Others<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile online resources and YouTube channels offer a wealth of information, real-world urban planning and advocacy require a deeper understanding of local issues and processes. Consider educating yourself further through courses or workshops on urban planning and transit advocacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Build a Community of Advocates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nConnect with others who share your passion for improving cycling infrastructure. Collective action is more powerful, and having a group can help amplify your voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Communicate Effectively<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen presenting your case for bike lanes or improved cycling infrastructure<\/a>, use data and examples from cities similar to yours that have successfully implemented these changes. This can make your argument more compelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Offer Solutions, Not Just Critiques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile it\u2019s important to highlight the areas where your city falls short, coming to the table with well-thought-out solutions can set you apart. Be prepared with specific proposals for bike lanes<\/a>, shared streets, or other infrastructure improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. Participate in Public Input Sessions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMany cities solicit feedback from residents on infrastructure projects and urban development plans<\/a>. Participate actively in these sessions, offering constructive feedback and support for bike-friendly initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. Leverage Social Media and Local Media<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nUse the power of social media and local press to raise awareness about the need for better cycling infrastructure<\/a>. Public support can often push officials to prioritize these projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10. Consider Political Involvement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re deeply committed to the cause, consider running for local office or supporting candidates who prioritize sustainable urban development and cycling infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n![\"bicycle](\"https:\/\/discerningcyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Bicycle-lane-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Are Bike Lanes Important?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bike lanes create safe spaces for all riders, regardless of age. The biggest thing that stops people from cycling is the perceived danger of cycling<\/a> on roads, hence the need for a safe space.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile you can never truly categorically guarantee safety on the road, bike lanes at least create a safe haven for all riders, regardless of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest factor deterring more people from cycling is the perceived danger<\/a> of riding on roads, increasing the need and demand for such safe spaces offered by bike lanes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n![\"safe](\"https:\/\/discerningcyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Bicycle-lane-city-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAre Bike Lanes Really Safe?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Of course, they are \u2013 but don\u2019t take our word for it, look at the statistics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- It\u2019s also a myth that they increase congestion on the roads, and consequently pollution. Yes, they may add to the traffic in some cases, but research<\/a> has shown that this issue has worsened due to increased private hire vehicles from companies such as Uber rather than from bike lanes. A study in Holland<\/a> concluded that a 12.5 percent reduction in the number of on-road vehicles would lead to enough of a reduction in nitrogen dioxide to lower mortality rates by 1.012.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Meanwhile, another study<\/a> found that those in vehicles inhale 60 percent more carbon monoxide than those on bikes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A study at the University of British Columbia<\/a> also found that protected bike lanes reduce the risk of injury by a staggering 90 percent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Collisions with cars make up about 35 percent of cycling-related injuries and are easily the most common. Bike lanes will inevitably help reduce that figure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAdvocacy for better cycling infrastructure is not straightforward, and it often involves navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes. However, you can make a difference in your community by taking these actionable steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding the intricacies of urban planning and engaging actively in the civic process are crucial steps toward bringing about the change you wish to see in your city’s approach to cycling and transportation. Remember, the most effective advocates combine passion with a deep understanding of the systems they\u2019re seeking to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Share the \ud83d\udeb2 Love<\/h4>\n\n\n
1. Understand the Local Landscape<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDive into your city\u2019s urban planning history, zoning laws, and infrastructure challenges. Every city is unique, and knowing the specifics of yours can make your advocacy more relevant and powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Identify Key Decision-Makers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFind out who your city council members, traffic engineers, and urban planners are. Understanding who holds the power to make changes is the first step in knowing whom to approach with your proposals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Engage with Civic Bodies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBecome an active participant in your city\u2019s civic life. Attend city council meetings, transportation advisory board meetings, and other relevant gatherings where infrastructure decisions are discussed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Educate Yourself and Others<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile online resources and YouTube channels offer a wealth of information, real-world urban planning and advocacy require a deeper understanding of local issues and processes. Consider educating yourself further through courses or workshops on urban planning and transit advocacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Build a Community of Advocates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nConnect with others who share your passion for improving cycling infrastructure. Collective action is more powerful, and having a group can help amplify your voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Communicate Effectively<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen presenting your case for bike lanes or improved cycling infrastructure<\/a>, use data and examples from cities similar to yours that have successfully implemented these changes. This can make your argument more compelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Offer Solutions, Not Just Critiques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile it\u2019s important to highlight the areas where your city falls short, coming to the table with well-thought-out solutions can set you apart. Be prepared with specific proposals for bike lanes<\/a>, shared streets, or other infrastructure improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. Participate in Public Input Sessions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMany cities solicit feedback from residents on infrastructure projects and urban development plans<\/a>. Participate actively in these sessions, offering constructive feedback and support for bike-friendly initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. Leverage Social Media and Local Media<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nUse the power of social media and local press to raise awareness about the need for better cycling infrastructure<\/a>. Public support can often push officials to prioritize these projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10. Consider Political Involvement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re deeply committed to the cause, consider running for local office or supporting candidates who prioritize sustainable urban development and cycling infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Are Bike Lanes Important?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bike lanes create safe spaces for all riders, regardless of age. The biggest thing that stops people from cycling is the perceived danger of cycling<\/a> on roads, hence the need for a safe space.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile you can never truly categorically guarantee safety on the road, bike lanes at least create a safe haven for all riders, regardless of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest factor deterring more people from cycling is the perceived danger<\/a> of riding on roads, increasing the need and demand for such safe spaces offered by bike lanes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAre Bike Lanes Really Safe?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Of course, they are \u2013 but don\u2019t take our word for it, look at the statistics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- It\u2019s also a myth that they increase congestion on the roads, and consequently pollution. Yes, they may add to the traffic in some cases, but research<\/a> has shown that this issue has worsened due to increased private hire vehicles from companies such as Uber rather than from bike lanes. A study in Holland<\/a> concluded that a 12.5 percent reduction in the number of on-road vehicles would lead to enough of a reduction in nitrogen dioxide to lower mortality rates by 1.012.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Meanwhile, another study<\/a> found that those in vehicles inhale 60 percent more carbon monoxide than those on bikes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A study at the University of British Columbia<\/a> also found that protected bike lanes reduce the risk of injury by a staggering 90 percent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Collisions with cars make up about 35 percent of cycling-related injuries and are easily the most common. Bike lanes will inevitably help reduce that figure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAdvocacy for better cycling infrastructure is not straightforward, and it often involves navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes. However, you can make a difference in your community by taking these actionable steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding the intricacies of urban planning and engaging actively in the civic process are crucial steps toward bringing about the change you wish to see in your city’s approach to cycling and transportation. Remember, the most effective advocates combine passion with a deep understanding of the systems they\u2019re seeking to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Share the \ud83d\udeb2 Love<\/h4>\n\n\n
Find out who your city council members, traffic engineers, and urban planners are. Understanding who holds the power to make changes is the first step in knowing whom to approach with your proposals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Engage with Civic Bodies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBecome an active participant in your city\u2019s civic life. Attend city council meetings, transportation advisory board meetings, and other relevant gatherings where infrastructure decisions are discussed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Educate Yourself and Others<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile online resources and YouTube channels offer a wealth of information, real-world urban planning and advocacy require a deeper understanding of local issues and processes. Consider educating yourself further through courses or workshops on urban planning and transit advocacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Build a Community of Advocates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nConnect with others who share your passion for improving cycling infrastructure. Collective action is more powerful, and having a group can help amplify your voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Communicate Effectively<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen presenting your case for bike lanes or improved cycling infrastructure<\/a>, use data and examples from cities similar to yours that have successfully implemented these changes. This can make your argument more compelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Offer Solutions, Not Just Critiques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile it\u2019s important to highlight the areas where your city falls short, coming to the table with well-thought-out solutions can set you apart. Be prepared with specific proposals for bike lanes<\/a>, shared streets, or other infrastructure improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. Participate in Public Input Sessions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMany cities solicit feedback from residents on infrastructure projects and urban development plans<\/a>. Participate actively in these sessions, offering constructive feedback and support for bike-friendly initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. Leverage Social Media and Local Media<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nUse the power of social media and local press to raise awareness about the need for better cycling infrastructure<\/a>. Public support can often push officials to prioritize these projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10. Consider Political Involvement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re deeply committed to the cause, consider running for local office or supporting candidates who prioritize sustainable urban development and cycling infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Are Bike Lanes Important?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bike lanes create safe spaces for all riders, regardless of age. The biggest thing that stops people from cycling is the perceived danger of cycling<\/a> on roads, hence the need for a safe space.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile you can never truly categorically guarantee safety on the road, bike lanes at least create a safe haven for all riders, regardless of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest factor deterring more people from cycling is the perceived danger<\/a> of riding on roads, increasing the need and demand for such safe spaces offered by bike lanes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAre Bike Lanes Really Safe?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Of course, they are \u2013 but don\u2019t take our word for it, look at the statistics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- It\u2019s also a myth that they increase congestion on the roads, and consequently pollution. Yes, they may add to the traffic in some cases, but research<\/a> has shown that this issue has worsened due to increased private hire vehicles from companies such as Uber rather than from bike lanes. A study in Holland<\/a> concluded that a 12.5 percent reduction in the number of on-road vehicles would lead to enough of a reduction in nitrogen dioxide to lower mortality rates by 1.012.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Meanwhile, another study<\/a> found that those in vehicles inhale 60 percent more carbon monoxide than those on bikes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A study at the University of British Columbia<\/a> also found that protected bike lanes reduce the risk of injury by a staggering 90 percent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Collisions with cars make up about 35 percent of cycling-related injuries and are easily the most common. Bike lanes will inevitably help reduce that figure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAdvocacy for better cycling infrastructure is not straightforward, and it often involves navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes. However, you can make a difference in your community by taking these actionable steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding the intricacies of urban planning and engaging actively in the civic process are crucial steps toward bringing about the change you wish to see in your city’s approach to cycling and transportation. Remember, the most effective advocates combine passion with a deep understanding of the systems they\u2019re seeking to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Share the \ud83d\udeb2 Love<\/h4>\n\n\n
While online resources and YouTube channels offer a wealth of information, real-world urban planning and advocacy require a deeper understanding of local issues and processes. Consider educating yourself further through courses or workshops on urban planning and transit advocacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Build a Community of Advocates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nConnect with others who share your passion for improving cycling infrastructure. Collective action is more powerful, and having a group can help amplify your voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Communicate Effectively<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen presenting your case for bike lanes or improved cycling infrastructure<\/a>, use data and examples from cities similar to yours that have successfully implemented these changes. This can make your argument more compelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Offer Solutions, Not Just Critiques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile it\u2019s important to highlight the areas where your city falls short, coming to the table with well-thought-out solutions can set you apart. Be prepared with specific proposals for bike lanes<\/a>, shared streets, or other infrastructure improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. Participate in Public Input Sessions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMany cities solicit feedback from residents on infrastructure projects and urban development plans<\/a>. Participate actively in these sessions, offering constructive feedback and support for bike-friendly initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. Leverage Social Media and Local Media<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nUse the power of social media and local press to raise awareness about the need for better cycling infrastructure<\/a>. Public support can often push officials to prioritize these projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10. Consider Political Involvement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re deeply committed to the cause, consider running for local office or supporting candidates who prioritize sustainable urban development and cycling infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Are Bike Lanes Important?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bike lanes create safe spaces for all riders, regardless of age. The biggest thing that stops people from cycling is the perceived danger of cycling<\/a> on roads, hence the need for a safe space.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile you can never truly categorically guarantee safety on the road, bike lanes at least create a safe haven for all riders, regardless of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest factor deterring more people from cycling is the perceived danger<\/a> of riding on roads, increasing the need and demand for such safe spaces offered by bike lanes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAre Bike Lanes Really Safe?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Of course, they are \u2013 but don\u2019t take our word for it, look at the statistics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- It\u2019s also a myth that they increase congestion on the roads, and consequently pollution. Yes, they may add to the traffic in some cases, but research<\/a> has shown that this issue has worsened due to increased private hire vehicles from companies such as Uber rather than from bike lanes. A study in Holland<\/a> concluded that a 12.5 percent reduction in the number of on-road vehicles would lead to enough of a reduction in nitrogen dioxide to lower mortality rates by 1.012.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Meanwhile, another study<\/a> found that those in vehicles inhale 60 percent more carbon monoxide than those on bikes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A study at the University of British Columbia<\/a> also found that protected bike lanes reduce the risk of injury by a staggering 90 percent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Collisions with cars make up about 35 percent of cycling-related injuries and are easily the most common. Bike lanes will inevitably help reduce that figure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAdvocacy for better cycling infrastructure is not straightforward, and it often involves navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes. However, you can make a difference in your community by taking these actionable steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding the intricacies of urban planning and engaging actively in the civic process are crucial steps toward bringing about the change you wish to see in your city’s approach to cycling and transportation. Remember, the most effective advocates combine passion with a deep understanding of the systems they\u2019re seeking to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Share the \ud83d\udeb2 Love<\/h4>\n\n\n
When presenting your case for bike lanes or improved cycling infrastructure<\/a>, use data and examples from cities similar to yours that have successfully implemented these changes. This can make your argument more compelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While it\u2019s important to highlight the areas where your city falls short, coming to the table with well-thought-out solutions can set you apart. Be prepared with specific proposals for bike lanes<\/a>, shared streets, or other infrastructure improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many cities solicit feedback from residents on infrastructure projects and urban development plans<\/a>. Participate actively in these sessions, offering constructive feedback and support for bike-friendly initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use the power of social media and local press to raise awareness about the need for better cycling infrastructure<\/a>. Public support can often push officials to prioritize these projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re deeply committed to the cause, consider running for local office or supporting candidates who prioritize sustainable urban development and cycling infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n Bike lanes create safe spaces for all riders, regardless of age. The biggest thing that stops people from cycling is the perceived danger of cycling<\/a> on roads, hence the need for a safe space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you can never truly categorically guarantee safety on the road, bike lanes at least create a safe haven for all riders, regardless of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The biggest factor deterring more people from cycling is the perceived danger<\/a> of riding on roads, increasing the need and demand for such safe spaces offered by bike lanes.<\/p>\n\n\n Of course, they are \u2013 but don\u2019t take our word for it, look at the statistics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Advocacy for better cycling infrastructure is not straightforward, and it often involves navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes. However, you can make a difference in your community by taking these actionable steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Understanding the intricacies of urban planning and engaging actively in the civic process are crucial steps toward bringing about the change you wish to see in your city’s approach to cycling and transportation. Remember, the most effective advocates combine passion with a deep understanding of the systems they\u2019re seeking to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Offer Solutions, Not Just Critiques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Participate in Public Input Sessions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Leverage Social Media and Local Media<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Consider Political Involvement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Are Bike Lanes Important?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAre Bike Lanes Really Safe?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n\n\n\nShare the \ud83d\udeb2 Love<\/h4>\n\n\n