The dawn of a New Year

Whether you’re a winter warrior or prefer to dream of warm days riding your two-wheeled steed, Think Bicycles wishes you a Happy New Year! It’s been a busy year for bicycling in our little corner of the world.

Iowa ended 2016 as one of the deadliest for bicyclists. Eleven bicyclists died in fatal bicycle crashes—nine involving motor vehicle collisions—the highest number in a decade. In five of the fatal crashes, the drivers crashed into the cyclist from behind. The Iowa Bicycle Coalition is lobbying for stronger laws for changing lanes while passing bicycles and texting while driving.  We urge you to get involved. For more information, see the IBC’s website: iowabicyclecoalition.org/legislation/

In Iowa City, city councilor Kingsley Botchway proposed a five-foot passing law for cars and bicycles. Think Bicycles supported his proposal in a letter to the city manager.
 
The year 2016 wasn’t all bad news for bicycling.
° The city of Coralville achieved bronze status as a League of American Bicyclists Bike Friendly Community. Our friends in University Heights, although they’re no longer the smallest community to be ranked, retained a bronze ranking.

° While we’re talking LAB rankings, we are one of the sponsors of Going for the Gold, a local effort to raise Iowa City’s ranking, by supporting programs that focus on Encouragement and Education.
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° Bike to Work Week 2016 was a jam-packed week of rides, educational programs, food, and an end of week party. New in 2016: Mayor’s Family Ride, Cycling Law presentation, and a demonstration bike boulevard organized by UI School of Public Health students. Clearly, we’ve outgrown a week: Look ahead to a full Bike Month in May!
 
° Think Bicycles also worked with Iowa City staff regarding access for pedestrians and cyclists at the Water Department gate, road diets on Mormon Trek and First Avenue, and hiring a nationally known consultant, Alta Planning, to put together a comprehensive bike plan for the city.
 
° Think Bicycles was involved with the downtown Iowa City Parklet, co-sponsored the visit to Iowa City by the League’s Bill Nesper, made a Winter Biking presentation for the county, co-sponsored the Move Naturally to Market program and bike rodeos at area schools. We continues to represent you on UI, city, and regional advisory committees. We were at the state and national bike summits, as well as Bike!Bike!, an international meeting of community bike programs.