How inclusive is Public Transit for those with disabilities?
How much support is given to non-car forms of transportation in our state? Before NCDOT’s current financial woes, in 2018-2019, North Carolina’s Department of Transportation had a budget of $5 billion dollars. From NCDOT’s $5 billion budget, public transit’s share was only $124.5 million for the entire state, which has 90 transit systems. (Note: many…
Read article… How inclusive is Public Transit for those with disabilities?
2020 NC BikeWalk Summit November 5-6 Online
Registration is now open for the 2020 NC BikeWalk Summit, being held virtually November 5– 6. We are putting together an informative and exciting online. Some terrific speakers are already lined up, and several informative presentations will have you looking at transportation in new ways. The theme this year is Inclusive Transportation. What do we…
2019 NC BikeWalk Summit November 8-9 in Winston-Salem
BikeWalkNC and its partners would like to invite you to be a part of the 2019 NC BikeWalk Summit which will take place November 8-9, 2019 in Winston-Salem North Carolina. We are currently accepting proposals from people, organizations or partnerships who would like to talk about how they are making how we can make “Healthy, Active Communities with a carbon free transportation future!”The 2019 NC BikeWalk Summit is the proud to be in Winston-Salem for the first time!. We want you to help us tell the story of our present state of active transportation, all that has changed and lay out a vision for North Carolina. Please submit a proposal for a panel, workshop, mobile workshop or poster. You can propose your own panel, or a single presentation and BikeWalkNC will select the best.
Read article… 2019 NC BikeWalk Summit November 8-9 in Winston-Salem
2019 BikeWalkNC Lobby Day
JOIN BikeWalkNC IN RALEIGH FOR YOUR LOBBY DAY TO SUPPORT BICYCLING AND WALKING APRIL 30,2019We are BikeWalkNC, your statewide advocacy organization for people who bike and walk. Join us and fellow cycling, walking and active transportation advocates in Raleigh to meet with our state legislators, show them who you are and how important it is to support safe infrastructure for people biking and walking.Our goals for the 2019 BikeWalkNC Lobby Day are to focus our messaging to positively impact safety for cycling and walking and to ensure that our representatives understand the existing health, environmental, economic and placemaking benefits of investments in active transportation infrastructure. This year’s General Assembly has been dynamic and has shown an interest for active transportation funding, policy and defining new modes of transportation within existing and future bicycle, pedestrian and multi use facilities.WE NEED YOUR HELP TO:Educate our legislators about the rights of people who ride and walk.As their constituents, build relationships with them to bring all available federal, state and local resources to their districts for active transportation infrastructure, education, encouragement and enforcement.Inform legislators on the issues confronting bicycling and walking in North Carolina. MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR BikeWalkNC’s APRIL 30 LOBBY DAY AND REGISTER HERE: https://bikewalknc.wildapricot.org/event-3340138
Paying for Shared Roads
By Steven Goodridge NCDOT and the state legislature are facing an inescapable reality: not only are fossil fuel tax revenues not keeping up with the costs of building and maintaining a road system that suits the speed and convenience preferences of motorists, but the state is also failing to protect public safety adequately on those…
Historical Basis of Road Rights for Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Advocates for motoring sometimes call for elimination of bicyclists or pedestrians from roadways, or for increased regulatory burdens to be placed on bicyclists (ostensibly to equal the expense of motoring regulations). Their argument often begins with the motoring-centric assumption that roads are for cars, and that because motoring on roadways is regulated as a privilege,…
Read article… Historical Basis of Road Rights for Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Cyclists and Peds Pay Fuel Taxes
Through taxes on food and supplements, bicyclists and pedestrians pay about as much per mile traveled as motorists do by Steven Goodridge “Bicyclists don’t pay fuel tax” is a claim commonly used by detractors to disparage bicyclists as “freeloaders” who are presumably less virtuous than motorists, and thus less deserving of respect or protection of their travel rights…
Join with BikeWalk NC in writing the governor and state representatives to return funding for Active Transportation Projects and Programs.
March 2, 2019 Dear Governor Cooper and members of the North Carolina General Assembly, Help make North Carolina safe for active transportation and invest in roadway designs that benefit cyclists, pedestrians, and entire communities! Active transportation promotes economic development, benefits our physical and mental health, and fosters a clean, energy efficient environment.. In 2013 when…
Bicycle Registration and Plate Proposal Draws Ridicule
A bill sponsored by NC House Representative Jeffrey Elmore (representing Alexander and Wilkes Counties) would require all bicycles operated by persons age 16 and over to be registered with the state DMV and equipped with a bicycle-specific license plate for an annual fee of ten dollars per bicycle. https://www.ncleg.gov/Sessions/2019/Bills/House/PDF/H157v0.pdf Although the suggested purpose of the…
Read article… Bicycle Registration and Plate Proposal Draws Ridicule
Winter 2019 Newsletter
Happy 2019! Changes at NCDOT, priorities for BWNC this year, the AV Start Act, and more. Read on. ON THE MOVEThe Newsletter of BikeWalk NCFrom the Executive DirectorVictory in the fight for funds to make North Carolina a state where anyone can choose to bicycle, run, walk and use all forms of active transportation to improve…
Change Lanes to Pass- A Lesson in Safety
Consensus building around a better paradigm for bicycling safety by Steven Goodridge A driver pulling a wide trailer nearly sideswipes a bicyclist in Petaluma, California The Problem Unsafe close passing, especially at high speeds, is one of the most common safety concerns expressed by bicyclists who use our state’s roadways. Beyond just frightening bicyclists,…
2018 BikeWalk NC – eBike Central Raffle round 2
BikeWalk NC and eBikeCentral made Averi Ritchie one happy camper at the 2018 NC Bike/Walk Summit last week when she was presented with a Riese and Muller Cruiser Mixte. But we have one more electric bike to raffle off on December 10, generously donated by eBikeCentral. All proceeds from your raffle tickets will go toward…
Read article… 2018 BikeWalk NC – eBike Central Raffle round 2
2018 BikeWalk NC – eBike Central Raffle
We are pleased to announce the raffle of two electric bikes, generously donated by eBikeCentral. All proceeds will go towards our statewide advocacy for bicycling and pedestrians. There are three ways you may enter: Purchase Raffle tickets online. Register and attend the 7th Annual BikeWalk Summit and receive one ticket. Join or renew your annual…
Rules of the Road for Electric Scooters
What are the traffic rules for electric scooters such as the Bird? What should they be? These questions are being asked by a wide range of stakeholders following the sudden influx of scooter-share activity in urban areas. Electric scooter rental offers the instant ability to travel at 15 mph between downtown destinations without physical exertion…
Summer reading for the younger set
Interested in sharing your love of bikes with a younger rider? Here are a few suggestions mostly for the elementary age child, compiled by BikeWalk NC intern, Charlotte Spence. (more…)
2018 NC Bike/Walk Summit – Camping and Hotel Locations
For those of you attending the 2018 Summit, here are some options for camping, hotels and home stays but, we hope that you will join us at the Raleigh Marriott City Center located at 500 Fayetteville Street Raleigh, NC 27601. We have secured a special room rate for 10/18 and 10/19 of $129.00 per night.…
Read article… 2018 NC Bike/Walk Summit – Camping and Hotel Locations
2018 NC Bike/Walk Summit – October 19-20, 2018
The 2018 NC Bike/Walk Summit is being held at the Convention Center in Raleigh on October 19-20, 2018!! This year’s Summit promises to be packed full of information useful to bicycle advocates, transportation planners, business owners, elected officials, tactical urbanists, public health practitioners, and livability and sustainability professionals. Experts from across the state and beyond…
Read article… 2018 NC Bike/Walk Summit – October 19-20, 2018
Capital Area Ride for Safety – September 23, 2018
To encourage safe cycling and to promote positive interactions between bicyclists and drivers, local riders, bike clubs and various organizations will be hosting the CAPITAL AREA RIDE for SAFETY (CARS) again this year on September 23, 2018. Join us this year for a new, dynamic and interactive ride and experience to be held at Dix…
Read article… Capital Area Ride for Safety – September 23, 2018
Terry Lansdell Named BikeWalk NC Executive Director
BikeWalk NC is extremely pleased to announce Terry Lansdell as its new Executive Director. He will assume responsibilities June 25. Terry comes to BikeWalk NC from Clean Air Carolina where he held several positions, most recently that of Public Policy Manager. His background uniquely qualifies him to lead BikeWalkNC. In addition to his work with…
Read article… Terry Lansdell Named BikeWalk NC Executive Director
BWNC Seeking New ED as Lisa bids Farewell
BWNC is seeking a new executive director (click here for job posting) as I am leaving to join AARP. Those of you who attended the 2017 Summit in Wilmington know what a great partner AARP is for BWNC with their livability/age-friendly community work, so I hope to continue to support BWNC in my new role.…
Autonomous Driving and Collision Avoidance Technology
Implications for Bicyclists and Pedestrians Will autonomous cars and automatic braking systems live up to their promise to improve public safety? Or will a rush to market flawed technology create greater peril for pedestrians and bicyclists? by Steven Goodridge, Ph.D. As I pedaled my bike along the road, Mercedes driver Farhan Ghanty approached me from…
Read article… Autonomous Driving and Collision Avoidance Technology
Support Bicycling & Walking in NC – Make a Year End Donation to BikeWalk NC
Please make a year-end donation to BikeWalk NC (BWNC) – your statewide voice to our NC legislature and NCDOT.This year we worked with our partner organizations, heard from many of you and talked to our state representatives and senators about what matters to us – safe infrastructure for walking and cycling near our homes…
Read article… Support Bicycling & Walking in NC – Make a Year End Donation to BikeWalk NC
SRTS Conference – Save the Date March 21, 2018
Safe Routes to School Conference – Building a Path to the Future March 21, 2018 8 am – 4:30 pm Koury Convention Center Greensboro, NC Save the date for the NC Safe Routes to School Conference. Hear inspiring success stories and leave with new ideas to amplify and sustain your own work. Sessions will feature:…
Read article… SRTS Conference – Save the Date March 21, 2018
Interested in Serving on BikeWalk NC Board?
BikeWalk NC is currently looking for new members to join our board. To be considered, you must first be a member in good standing. The best path is to contact us and first get involved in a subcommittee. We are looking for board members to help with Fundraising, Membership, Events (Bike/Walk Summit planning and…
ACTION ALERT – CONTACT SENATOR BURR TODAY TO KEEP BIKE COMMUTER BENEFIT
ACTION ALERT from League of American Bicyclists: The Senate tax reform plan, released on Thursday, eliminates the bike commuter benefit while keeping commuter benefits for driving and riding transit! The Senate Finance committee plans to vote starting on Monday and an amendment is needed to reinstate the bike benefit. Senator BURR is one of the…
Read article… ACTION ALERT – CONTACT SENATOR BURR TODAY TO KEEP BIKE COMMUTER BENEFIT
Businesses Urge RDU Airport Authority to Consider “The Solution”
Dear RDU Airport Authority (RDU AA), CC: Michael Landguth, President As employers and representative of businesses in the Triangle, we recognize that quality of life is a key factor in attracting and retaining skilled workers. The Triangle’s connected network of greenways, sidewalks, trails and bike lanes not only provide the obvious health benefits, but…
Read article… Businesses Urge RDU Airport Authority to Consider “The Solution”
Hurry – Register Now and Get Your Hotel Room for the NC Bike/Walk Summit
Completing our Streets…for All! The 6th Annual Bike/Walk Summit Hosted in Collaboration with AARP and Cape Fear Cyclists November 3-4, 2017 in Wilmington NC Register Now! Just a few Bike/Walk Summit custom socks left so register now to secure a pair. Also, the hotel rates (some at major hotel chains <$70/night within 10 min…
Read article… Hurry – Register Now and Get Your Hotel Room for the NC Bike/Walk Summit
Early Registration Now Open For 2017 Bike/Walk Summit
Completing our Streets…for All! Early registration is now open through the end of August for the 6th Annual NC Bike/Walk Summit in Wilmington, NC hosted by BWNC in collaboration with AARP and Cape Fear Cyclists on Nov 3-4. We are excited for new topics such as: Facilitated discussions with advocates on how to…
Read article… Early Registration Now Open For 2017 Bike/Walk Summit
Revised Budget Language Fixes Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant Provision
The Conference Committee’s released budget (here) has replaced the original Senate budget provision with an annual progress reporting requirement. The original provision would have decimated the NCDOT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant program by requiring a pay-back of grant funds if projects weren’t implemented in a timeframe over which they had limited control. See here…
Read article… Revised Budget Language Fixes Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant Provision
Legislative Alert – Legislature Deciding Fate of Bike/Ped Provision this Week
Legislative leadership is busy hashing out our state’s budget as we speak. The bike and pedestrian planning grant provision is up for debate. Here is full text of the provision. The House took it out and the Senate put it in. Contact the chairs if you know them and are able to speak against this…
Read article… Legislative Alert – Legislature Deciding Fate of Bike/Ped Provision this Week
House Budget – Planning Grant Provision Removed
Happy to report that the House budget does not contain the Senate provision that threatened the NCDOT Planning Grant program that benefits our communities, especially the smaller towns. This issue will now be part of the Conference Committee discussions between the House and the Senate budget. Stay tuned to see the Conference Committee appointments and…
Read article… House Budget – Planning Grant Provision Removed
Tour de Fat Bike Ride and Concert Events NEXT WEEK!
Tour de Fat Charlotte is coming next week! Here is a link to your complete Tour de Fat Guide. It has a ticket discount coupon link. We are doing a PROMOTIONAL BIKE RIDE at 6:45 on Wednesday May 24 from Spoke Easy – Women on Wednesdays (Bethanie’s ride) is joining forces with Dread’s biweekly…
Read article… Tour de Fat Bike Ride and Concert Events NEXT WEEK!
Additional Comments on SB257
BikeWalk NC is contacting legislators regarding the Bike and Pedestrian Planning Grant provision in Senate Bill 257. Here are additional comments to support the letter: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS/CONCERNS WITH SB257 136-41.5. Return of Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant funds. Project Implementation Timeline: The 6 year project window is a best case scenario in that it takes…
Tour de Fat Benefit for BWNC in Charlotte – Groupon available –
Tour de Fat Charlotte May 27th – Groupon has discount tickets to this fun concert HERE. What is it? New Belgium is throwing a party with country rock band A Thousand Horses and the Tour de Fat ensemble cast of performers. Ready your eyes and ears for a mix of musicians, circus performers, vaudeville…
Read article… Tour de Fat Benefit for BWNC in Charlotte – Groupon available –
Bike/Ped Planning Grant Program Threatened
The Senate Budget passed last night, SB 257, contains a provision that would negatively impact the Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant program. Read the text of the provision here. The provision appears to require municipalities to return planning funding if any project identified in the application for planning grant funds are not built within 6 years. …
Request for Proposals Open Now for 2017 Bike/Walk Summit in Wilmington Nov 3-4
Please consider speaking at the 2017 Bike/Walk Summit in Wilmington Nov 3-4. Click on this link to submit your proposal: Partnering with AARP, Cape Fear Cyclist, NCDOT and others, we plan to generate lots of information sharing and time for networking. Visit the Summit Website for the latest information about the summit. The theme this…
Read article… Request for Proposals Open Now for 2017 Bike/Walk Summit in Wilmington Nov 3-4
Get Out and Enjoy a Bike Month Event!
This May, BikeWalk NC encourages you to celebrate National Bike Month! In 1956, the League of American Bicyclists made Bike Month official. This is a prime opportunity for people of all ages to gather for events ranging from festivals to group rides to educational sessions, all inspired by the shared love for bicycling and the…
Tour de Fat comes to Charlotte May 27th!
Tour de Fat is moving to Charlotte and coming soon! Launched in 2000, Tour de Fat is New Belgium Brewing’s philanthropic festival of bikes, beer and fun. Proceeds from the Tour benefit cycling and environmental nonprofits across the country. Tour de Fat has raised close to $5 million for nonprofit partners since its beginning. Please…
Tour de Fat Promotional Events Month of May
MONTH OF MAY TOUR DE FAT PROMOTIONAL EVENTS Look for MORE DETAILS SOON about these fun pre-Tour de Fat promotional events that will be hosted at various Duckworth’s Bars in the Charlotte area: Ballantyne (5/15) – Live artist demonstration Park Rd (5/18) – Musician on the patio Huntersville (5/22) – Live Art (sampling) or another option…
First BWNC Lobby Day a Success!
On April 5, over 30 advocates for active transportation met in Raleigh to meet with our state legislators for BikeWalk NC’s first Lobby Day. Participants traveled from as far east as Southport (southeast of Wilmington) and as far west as Sylva (west of Asheville). “We were thrilled with the turnout, as 40 registered without our…
BikeWalk NC hosts Our First Lobby Day
The General Assembly is back and ready for business! Since meeting for the long session on Jan. 11, the Assembly has been coming together for regular meetings and to work on the budget. Currently, one bill, H.B. 135, addresses the need for bike safety to be added to the public school curriculum. The General Assembly…
2017 BIKE/WALK SUMMIT – NOV 3-4 Wilmington
HOLD THE DATE 6th Annual NC Bike/Walk Summit Proudly Presented by BikeWalk NC in Partnership with AARP and Cape Fear Cyclists Join cycling experts and advocates from the Southeast region at the 6th Annual NC Bike Summit! The event will be held from November 3-4, 2017 in Wilmington, NC. Keynote speakers will focus on…
Historical Basis of Road Rights for Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Advocates for motoring sometimes call for elimination of bicyclists or pedestrians from roadways, or for increased regulatory burdens to be placed on bicyclists (ostensibly to equal the expense of motoring regulations). Their argument often begins with the motoring-centric assumption that roads are for cars, and that because motoring on roadways is regulated as a privilege,…
Read article… Historical Basis of Road Rights for Pedestrians and Bicyclists
APBP North Carolina Chapter Kickoff and Networking Events
The Association of Bicycling and Walking Professional’s *new* North Carolina Chapter is hosting a series of six socials in late January for individuals across the state! Join them after work at the social nearest you to celebrate the kickoff of the new chapter. You do not need to be a member to attend. We encourage…
Read article… APBP North Carolina Chapter Kickoff and Networking Events
It’s October 1st – New Bike Laws Become Effective Today!
In addition to the important provision that allows vehicles to cross the solid center line to pass slower moving vehicles (a big win for the BWNC and the NC bicycling community), House Bill 959: DOT Proposed Legislative Changes modifies other bicycle safety laws. These new laws will become effective today, October 1st, 2016: Allowing…
Read article… It’s October 1st – New Bike Laws Become Effective Today!
Ann Groninger on the Importance of UM/UIM Coverage
Ann Groninger of Bike Law North Carolina provides her insights into the value of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage for bicyclists. PLEASE DO THIS RIGHT NOW – 100% MUST HAVE INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR BICYCLISTS Guest Post by Ann Groninger For at least the past ten years, in group talks, blogs and social media posts, I…
Read article… Ann Groninger on the Importance of UM/UIM Coverage
NC Annual Bike Summit Almost Here!
Make sure you are registered for the 5th Annual NC Bike Summit being held in Asheville on SEPTEMBER 16-17, 2016!! We are excited to be hosting the Summit in collaboration with Asheville on Bikes. Couple things: The program is now available on our summit website here. Still spots in the Traffic Safety Skills Class for Cyclists…
The Transit and Cycling Connection – BWNC and the Wake County Referendum
As you consider the Wake County transit referendum that is on the ballot this November, we would like to point out the connection between walking, biking and public transportation. People of all ages are expressing interest in getting around without a car. Many urban areas are recognizing that to be prepared for the future, they…
Read article… The Transit and Cycling Connection – BWNC and the Wake County Referendum
BWNC Bids Farewell to Don Kostelec
One of our most active board members, Don Kostelec, is moving to Boise, Idaho, to work for Alta Planning & Design. A big loss for BWNC and North Carolina. For the past four or so years, we have valued and benefited from his technical expertise, creative ideas and extensive network of contacts. He is amazing…
NC Bike Summit in Asheville – Register and Get Lodging NOW!
On SEPTEMBER 16-17, 2016 we are excited to be hosting the 5th Annual NC Bike Summit in collaboration with Asheville on Bikes. The planning committee has been hard at work and has developed an amazing two days (up to four with the Traffic Skills class and Cyclovia Open Streets event). Our main message is please register…
Read article… NC Bike Summit in Asheville – Register and Get Lodging NOW!
ADVOCACY SUCCESS – NEW LAW ALLOWS MOTORISTS TO CROSS SOLID CENTER LINE TO PASS BICYCLISTS
On October 1st it will be legal for motorists to cross the solid center line to pass slower-moving bicyclists. This is a big advocacy win for BWNC and the NC bicycling community as we have been advocating for this change for many years; read the BWNC discussion here. This provision is contained as Section 5.5a…
Bike Law Changes in House Bill 959 Improve Public Roadway Safety
In addition to the important provision that allows vehicles to cross the solid center line to pass slower moving vehicles (a big win for the BWNC and the NC bicycling community), House Bill 959: DOT Proposed Legislative Changes modifies other bicycle safety laws. These new laws will become effective October 1st, 2016: Allowing…
Read article… Bike Law Changes in House Bill 959 Improve Public Roadway Safety
Praise for a Successful 2016 Tour de Fat Event
BikeWalk NC is happy to announce that the 2016 Tour de Fat celebration in Durham, NC on June 25 was a tremendous success. Sponsored by New Belgium Brewing Company, the Tour de Fat is an annual beer and bicycle festival that travels to various locations around the country. Durham’s Tour event is the biggest fundraiser for…
Read article… Praise for a Successful 2016 Tour de Fat Event
Recognition of Lauren Blackburn
BikeWalk NC recognizes Lauren Blackburn, the previous director of the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation, for her contributions to improving the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians on public roadways. Lauren served as the Division’s director for four years, during which various regional infrastructure plans were developed with the intention…
TOUR DE FAT – In Just 2 Weeks – JUNE 25TH in DURHAM!!!
TOUR DE FAT On Saturday June 25th at Diamond Park in Durham, join thousands of your friends for a costumed bike parade and nationally touring and locally loved musical acts, peppered with interactive fun like a 1,000 Person Dance Contest (to win a bike!) a Slow Ride competition (how slow can you go?), and the…
Read article… TOUR DE FAT – In Just 2 Weeks – JUNE 25TH in DURHAM!!!
Bike Safety Law Changes Proposed in House Bill 959
House Transportation Committee Chairs John Torbett, Frank Iler, and Phillip Shepard and HB232 bill sponsor Representative Jeter are working to improve bicyclist safety and reduce conflicts between motorists and bicyclists by proposing the adoption of many of the valuable recommendations from the HB232 Bicycle Safety Law Study conducted this past fall. We believe…
Read article… Bike Safety Law Changes Proposed in House Bill 959
NCDOT’s Weekly Video Promotes Bicycle Safety!
Wow, we are so excited that NCDOT in their NC Transportation Now weekly video promotes bicycle and pedestrian safety for May – Bike Month. Thanks Deputy Secretary Mike Charbonneau! We are so excited because they took footage from our volunteers working on additional safety videos to show: bicyclists riding two-abreast (which makes bicyclist more visible…
Send Letter to US DOT to Urge Bicycling Consideration
The Federal Highway Administration once again ignored bicyclists when determining performance measures for our transportation system. Even though Congress just instituted a complete streets policy for the National Highway System (Main streets, arterials and other major roads), FHWA wants to measure performance of the system using a measure for drivers only. It measures congestion by…
Read article… Send Letter to US DOT to Urge Bicycling Consideration
Present at 2016 NC Bike Summit
You’re invited to submit a proposal to present at the 5th annual NC Bike Summit held in Asheville, NC September 16-17. The theme of this year’s summit is “pedaling toward economic development.” Proposals for presentations should address these issues: * Funding strategies for bicycling * Advancing bicycle advocacy * Economic benefits of bicycling -…
BWNC Bids Don Kostelec Farewell
One of our most active board members, Don Kostelec, is off to Idaho to work for Alta Planning and Design. A big loss for BWNC and for North Carolina – our loss is Idaho’s gain!
URGENT: Operation CARS-Ride POSTPONED!!
Due to the overwhelming response and for the safety of all riders, the CARS ride is being postponed until all can coordinate logistics with the City of Raleigh. Once again, this is being done for the safety of the cyclists and all parties involved. We will post when we get information about rescheduling. As for…
Survey of Group Ride Leadership and Organization Practices
Do you organize or lead open-road group bicycling rides in North Carolina? If so, we invite you to participate in our group ride leadership survey. BikeWalk NC is collecting input from the bicycling community on successful practices for organizing and leading group rides. This information will help inform our development of educational materials to assist new ride organizers…
Read article… Survey of Group Ride Leadership and Organization Practices
How to Pass a Bicyclist
Motor vehicle drivers pass bicyclists safely countless times every day. When done improperly, however, the results can be tragic. Some drivers say that they are unsure of what to do when they encounter bicyclists on the road ahead. It’s therefore important to increase public awareness of how to pass a bicyclist safely. Safe passing of…
Critical Mind Share
A chicken-and-egg relationship exists between common public beliefs and the interpretation of laws. For bicyclists, our legal right to the road may hinge on the prevailing concept of operations for marked travel lanes. Bicyclist advocates and safety instructors hold a concept of operations where other drivers change lanes to pass bicyclists safely, and where it…
BikeWalk NC works on Vision Zero Taskforce to eliminate road fatalities
Lisa Riegel, executive director of BikeWalk NC, joined the North Carolina Vision Zero Taskforce. In 2014, the North Carolina Strategic Highway Safety Plan adopted the NC Vision Zero Vision Zero is a proven, data-driven approach to reducing transportation-related injuries and saving lives. Vision Zero’s goal is to work toward the only acceptable number of traffic…
Read article… BikeWalk NC works on Vision Zero Taskforce to eliminate road fatalities
Supporters Rally at Raleigh City Council Bike Share Discussion Today
Today, Sig Hutchinson read this poem as he expressed his support for Raleigh’s proposed Bike Share.
Read article… Supporters Rally at Raleigh City Council Bike Share Discussion Today
Bicycle Safety Law Study (HB232) Update
The recommendations in NCDOT’s HB232 Bicycle Safety Law Study report are now in the hands of the General Assembly. We’ve boiled down the key points to help you spread the word. BikeWalk NC supports, among other items: Allowing motorists to cross a solid yellow line to pass bicyclists. This will make it easier for motorists to pass cyclists…
BikeWalk NC Publishes Group Bicycling Guide
BikeWalk NC has released the first part of its education initiative to promote best practices for group bicycling. The first installment, Skills and Techniques, is now available as an online guide. It covers cooperative bicycling, applicable traffic laws, group size and formation tradeoffs, paceline techniques, and safe negotiation of intersections and road hazards. Future releases will…
Using the Left Half of the Lane
Bicycling in the left half of a travel lane provides substantial safety advantages in common traffic scenarios. Knowledgeable bicyclists who ride between the lane center and left tire track improve their maneuvering space, sight lines, and conspicuity to other drivers. This reduces the risk of typical car-bike crash types such as drive out, left cross, right hook, motorist overtaking and dooring…
NCDOT Releases Final Report on H232 Study to Legislature
NCDOT has released their final report on the H232 Bicycle Safety Law Study. See the documents linked below: H232 Bill Text Final H232 Memo and Report Final Appendices and Comments The report differs little from the draft report, and still makes recommendations to restrict bicyclists’ use of our roadways (restriction to right half of travel lane,…
Read article… NCDOT Releases Final Report on H232 Study to Legislature
BikeWalk NC Feedback on NCDOT’s H232 Study Report
BikeWalk NC submitted the following feedback to NCDOT on December 29, 2015 in response to NCDOT’s draft report on the H232 study. The feedback document was accompanied by a cover letter that can be read here. BikeWalk NC Feedback on NCDOT’s H232 Study Report 12/29/2015 Abstract BikeWalk NC is greatly concerned by multiple NCDOT recommendations in…
Read article… BikeWalk NC Feedback on NCDOT’s H232 Study Report
Alert: NCDOT Releases Draft H232 Report
NCDOT has released a draft report of recommendations for the H232 Bicycle Safety Law Study. The draft report includes recommendations that differ substantially from the recommendations of the H232 committee. For instance, the NCDOT report recommends legislation limiting riding abreast (the committee voted unanimously against such legislation) and recommends legislation requiring bicyclists to ride on…
Get to Know the ITE Traffic Control Devices Handbook
A common complaint made about the 2009 Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is that it provides insufficient guidance about effective lateral placement of shared lane markings (aka sharrows) and bike lanes, resulting in some DOTs installing sharrows on the right side of narrow lanes (below) or placing bike lanes and sharrows in the door zone of parallel parking.…
Read article… Get to Know the ITE Traffic Control Devices Handbook
Safe Passing Principles, Laws and Recommendations
Note: Since the time this article was written, the State Legislature has legalized passing a bicyclist in a no-passing zone when done safely with no oncoming traffic and adequate sight distance, passing at a distance of at least four feet or moving completely into the next lane. See § 20-150. Limitations on privilege of overtaking and…
Read article… Safe Passing Principles, Laws and Recommendations
The Evolution of Stay-Right Laws
[The following article by BikeWalk NC was submitted to the H232 Bicycle Safety Law Study Committee in September 2015 in response to discussion of restricting bicyclists’ position on roadways.] A car stuck on an unpaved Johnston County Road in 1909. [Image: State Archives of NC] Abstract This paper provides an overview of the developmental history…
Group Road Cycling Photos Wanted
One of the primary recommendations of the H232 Bicycle Safety Law Study Committee was for NCDOT to develop and implement an education campaign about group bicycling. This would cover best bicycling practices including safe and predictable double paceline techniques, group rotation, and operation around other vehicle traffic. The campaign would also include a motorist education component covering bicyclists’ road rights…
HB232 Bicycle Safety Law Study – Working Group Discusses Safety Benefits of Riding Two Abreast – No Legislation Recommended to Limit This Existing Right
The Working Group brought together by NCDOT pursuant to House Bill 232 to study bicycle safety laws held their final meeting November 18th. The group focused on the legislative directive to look at whether cyclists should be required to ride single file or allowed to ride two or more abreast. The committee unanimously approved a…
Bicycle Safety Laws Study – Last Meeting to be Held Nov 18th
The last meeting of the House Bill 232 Bicycle Safety Laws Study working group will be held on Wednesday, November 18, 2015, from 10 am to 2 pm, at the NCDOT Transportation Building in the Emergency Information Center (EIC) Conference Room – 1 South Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh (same location as the last meeting).…
Read article… Bicycle Safety Laws Study – Last Meeting to be Held Nov 18th
Assured Clear Distance Ahead and Vision Zero
Too often, bicyclists are treated as scapegoats for the consequences of negligent motoring behaviors. This tactic was on clear display at the October 6 meeting of the HB232 Bicycle Safety Law Study Committee. A committee member who is antipathetic to bicyclists told a story of a motorist who was pulling a boat at high speed…
Highlights of the October 6 HB232 Bike Law Committee Meeting
The HB232 Bicycle Safety and Traffic Law Committee that was established recently by NCDOT to report to the NC Legislature had its third meeting on October 6. The committee composition includes law enforcement officials, a roadway safety researcher, city and county staff, a trucking industry representative, a bike shop owner, a bike event promoter, a…
Read article… Highlights of the October 6 HB232 Bike Law Committee Meeting
Action taken at the 9/11/2015 HB232 Bike Law Study Committee Meeting
At the September 11, 2015 meeting of the HB232 Bike Law Study Committee, committee members began substantive discussion of the safety and legal issues identified in HB232 as well as additional issues raised by the committee. The committee voted 7-2 against requiring bicyclists to carry ID as a condition of road use, voted unanimously in…
Read article… Action taken at the 9/11/2015 HB232 Bike Law Study Committee Meeting
Bicycling: Privilege or Right?
The right to travel is thousands of years old, but is sometimes forgotten in the age of motoring by Steven Goodridge During discussion at the September 11 meeting of the HB232 Bicycle Law Study Committee, a member claimed that “use of the road is a privilege, not a right.” The context was a proposal to require bicyclists…
Success! Bike Lane Prohibition – Removed from Bill
The Senate and House passed House Bill 44 and after much negotiation (over three months) the right decision was made and the bike lane prohibition was REMOVED. We have so many of you all to thank for this outcome, but especially House Conferee Leadership, for supporting our position on this bill. We had support from environmental…
Read article… Success! Bike Lane Prohibition – Removed from Bill
BikeWalk NC Presentations to the HB232 Study Committee
BikeWalk NC Board member Steven Goodridge is serving on the HB232 bike safety law study committee in order to support cyclists’ interests and present information on best bicycling practices to the committee. Below are materials BikeWalk NC has presented to the committee: Background Papers: Evolution of Stay-Right Laws (PDF) Passing Laws (PDF) Best Bicycle Driving Practices and North…
Read article… BikeWalk NC Presentations to the HB232 Study Committee
BWNC Materials for HB232 Bike Law Study Meetings
Safe Passing and Riding Abreast (Slide Presentation) PowerPoint File PDF File Bicyclist Lane Position (Slide Presentation) PowerPoint File PDF File Background Papers: Evolution of Stay-Right Laws (PDF) Passing Laws (PDF) Best Bicycle Driving Practices and North Carolina Law (PDF) Other Topics: Night Visibility, Rear Lighting (Blog Article) What is a Courteous Cyclist? (Blog Article) Bicyclist…
Read article… BWNC Materials for HB232 Bike Law Study Meetings
The Case for Requiring Rear Lighting at Night
The bicycle law study committee created by the enactment of HB232 had its first meeting August 7, when it identified priority safety issues to examine. One change to state traffic law that BikeWalk NC has recommended is that night lighting requirements for bicyclists be upgraded to require a rear lamp. Cycling in darkness is important for commuting…
Bike Safety Law Study (HB232) Working Group Begins Work
The first meeting of the House Bill 232 Bike Safety Law Study working group was convened by NC DOT on Friday, August 7th. The statue requires the working group to discuss: How faster-moving vehicles may safely overtake bicycles on roadways where sight distance may be inhibited. Whether bicyclists on a roadway should be required…
Read article… Bike Safety Law Study (HB232) Working Group Begins Work
NCDOT Updates Special Events Process
NCDOT has provided new instructions and guidelines for special events involving state highways. Last year, some confusion arose when NCDOT division engineers told group ride organizers that a special event request form must be submitted for virtually any group bike ride. The new special event form and guidelines make it clear that it only applies…
Last Chance To Help Stop Road Diet Prohibition
Our understanding is that the House and Senate Conferees have finally met and are close to a compromise on House Bill 44. A decision will be made imminently – please make one more effort to email the Senate (especially) to remove Section 7 – the Bike Lane prohibition. Now is the time! Section 7…
Read article… Last Chance To Help Stop Road Diet Prohibition
Conferees to Meet Soon on “Road Diet” Bike Lane Prohibition Bill
Conferees are scheduled to meet next week, Senate and House together, to discuss House Bill 44. Section 7 of HB44 prohibits road diets with bike lanes under certain circumstances. The provision is overly prescriptive and may in effect reduce a community’s ability to optimize safety and congestion relief in a comprehensive manner. If any of…
Read article… Conferees to Meet Soon on “Road Diet” Bike Lane Prohibition Bill
Bike Safety Law Study Working Group (HB232) to Begin Meeting August 7th
The first eight members of the bicycle safety law study working group have been selected by NCDOT and they plan to meet at 10 am on August 7th in Garner, NC. The group then elects a chair and up to three additional members. Refer to the bike/ped home page for the H 232 committee…
Read article… Bike Safety Law Study Working Group (HB232) to Begin Meeting August 7th
Legal Status of a Bicycle under NC Traffic Law
An upcoming study of bicycling laws requested by the state legislature has resulted in a flurry of discussion and recommendations by non-bicyclist stakeholders, many of whom are unfamiliar with existing state laws. A common point of confusion is the legal distinction between bicycles and motor vehicles. We hope this post can clarify this issue. Existing state…
Read article… Legal Status of a Bicycle under NC Traffic Law
BikeWalk NC Priority Recommendations for Bike Law Study
BikeWalk NC has developed the following priority recommendations for the Study/Update on Bicycle Safety Laws to be conducted by NCDOT according to HB 232. These summary recommendations can be downloaded as a printer-friendly .pdf file. A detailed support document for these recommendations, discussing existing law and best bicycling practices, is also provided in .pdf format. BikeWalk NC Recommendations on North…
Read article… BikeWalk NC Priority Recommendations for Bike Law Study
Senate Names HB44 (“Road Diet”) Conferees
The Senate appointed HB44 Conferees on Tuesday: Sen. Trudy Wade, Chair, Sen. Tom Apodaca, Sen. Andrew C. Brock, Sen. Harry Brown, Sen. Kathy Harrington, Sen. John M. Alexander, Jr., Sen. Ben Clark Next week both the House and the Senate will be on break, but since it is unclear how soon conferees will be meeting, the sooner we make contact…
City of Winston-Salem Seeking SRTS and Bike/Ped Consultant
The City of Winston-Salem is planning to hire a consultant to assist with their Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program and their bike/ped programming and marketing for FY15-16. For further information about this opportunity refer to: Request for Letter of Interest
Read article… City of Winston-Salem Seeking SRTS and Bike/Ped Consultant
BIG Seeking Executive Project Manager
If you are interested in the part-time executive project manager position with Bicycles in Greensboro refer to the BIG Executive Project Manager Job Posting for more information.
Tour de Fat Durham 2015 – A Success for Bicycle Advocacy
Thank you New Belgium Brewing for hosting an incredible show and event last Saturday in Durham. Beer, music, shows, bike parade, food and costumes galore. We raised more money than last year that will go to support BikeWalk NC’s bicycle advocacy, Durham Bike Coop, and Triangle Spokes! Don’t miss it next year!
Read article… Tour de Fat Durham 2015 – A Success for Bicycle Advocacy
Bill Restricting Bicycle Lanes to be Resolved in Conference
LEGISLATIVE ALERT – Ask House Conferees to Remove Section 7 from House Bill 44 The House and Senate must resolve differences between their versions of House Bill 44 . Section 7 of the Senate’s version of the bill would prohibit “road diets” under certain conditions without consideration of exceptions. This provision was NOT in the…
Read article… Bill Restricting Bicycle Lanes to be Resolved in Conference
House Votes Down Bill that restricts “Road Diets”
LEGISLATIVE ALERT The House just unanimously voted not to concur with the Senate version of House Bill 44 . Section 7 of the bill would prohibit “road diets” under certain conditions without consideration of exceptions. The bill language is overly prescriptive and may in effect reduce a community’s ability to optimize safety and congestion relief in…
Read article… House Votes Down Bill that restricts “Road Diets”
Tour de Fat in Durham is in less than 2 Weeks – June 20th!
Bikes, Beer, and Bemusement! Music, bike parade, beer and food sales. June 20, 2015 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Diamond View Park @ American Tobacco Complex, Durham, NC Full Schedule of Fun Are you coming? RSVP via Facebook. Don’t want to drive? We’ve set up/compiled so many transportation options Get Yo Self to TDF Check out…
Read article… Tour de Fat in Durham is in less than 2 Weeks – June 20th!