Earth Day Jam at Salisbury’s Bell Tower Green
On Saturday, April 22nd, staff from BikeWalk NC will be on site at the Earth Day Jam at Salisbury’s Bell Tower Green to educate attendees on the benefits of active transportation, distribute information about the organization, and promote the NC Friendly Driver Program and the NC Bicycle Safety Quiz. BikeWalk’s participation will also serve to…
Board Member Spotlight, Ann Groninger
Charlotte, NC Ann Groninger has been a consistent supporter of BikeWalkNC and has been a board member since 2016. As a North Carolina attorney since 1995, she has been representing cyclists around the state for over 20 years. She is a member of Bike Law, a national network of attorneys who focus on advocating for…
BikeWalk NC Nominated as an Inspiring Non-Profit for 2023 Sustain Charlotte Awards
BikeWalk NC is honored to be nominated among an outstanding field of other non-profits for the upcoming 2023 Sustain Charlotte Awards. This event brings together sustainability leaders from various disciplines and sectors to celebrate Charlotte’s remarkable strides towards a smarter and more sustainable future. A complete list of award categories and nominees can be found here. This…
Read article… BikeWalk NC Nominated as an Inspiring Non-Profit for 2023 Sustain Charlotte Awards
D9 Brewing Names BikeWalk NC as their March Round Up Beneficiary
D9 Brewing has generously made BikeWalk NC the beneficiary of their March Round Up, meaning a portion of proceeds from all beers sold at the Lake Norman location in the month of March will be donated directly to BikeWalk NC. BikeWalk NC will be on site at D9 Lake Norman (11138 Treynorth Dr) on Sunday, March 19th…
Read article… D9 Brewing Names BikeWalk NC as their March Round Up Beneficiary
REMINDER: Repeal the Bicycle Pedestrian Funding Limitation Copy
It is important that the BikeWalk NC community let Governor Roy Cooper know that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Funding Limitation has to end. Under this 2013 law no state funds can be used for stand alone Bicycle-Pedestrian infrastructure projects. By appealing directly to the Governor you can tell him how this negatively impacts you and…
Read article… REMINDER: Repeal the Bicycle Pedestrian Funding Limitation Copy
N.C. Clean Transportation Plan Virtual Public Information Session
Over the last year, NCDOT collected ideas from experts, industry representatives, and community advocates on ways to accelerate the decarbonization of North Carolina’s transportation sector. This work has been summarized in the state’s first Clean Transportation Plan (NCCTP). In this fourth and final Public Information Session, NCDOT will provide an overview of the plan including…
Read article… N.C. Clean Transportation Plan Virtual Public Information Session
Board Member Spotlight, Dan Besse
Board Member from Winston-Salem, NC Dan is an attorney who recently completed 19 years of service on the Winston-Salem City Council. As a city council leader, he focused much attention to improving local transit service and expanding safe walking and cycling opportunities, including expanding greenways, connecting and extending sidewalks, improving intersection safety, and creating bike…
NCDOT Multimodal Grant Applications
The N.C. Department of Transportation is accepting applications for the 2023 Multimodal Planning Grant Program, which provides planning funds for identifying bike and walking paths and transit connections. The plans would address a comprehensive strategy for expanding bicycle and pedestrian opportunities in a community. The plans may address facilities, programs, policies and design guidelines that encourage…
Repeal the Bicycle Pedestrian Funding Limitation
It is important that the BikeWalk NC community let Governor Roy Cooper know that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Funding Limitation has to end. Under this 2013 law no state funds can be used for stand alone Bicycle-Pedestrian infrastructure projects. By appealing directly to the Governor you can tell him how this negatively impacts you and…
Read article… Repeal the Bicycle Pedestrian Funding Limitation
Board Member Spotlight, Sarah Parkins, AICP
Board Member from Raleigh, NC Sarah works as a Communications and Public Involvement Specialist for WSP, with a background in community development and transportation planning. She is an avid walker, runner, and hiker who can be found out on the Capital area greenways or hiking trials every day after work. Sarah has a strong passion…
US DOT Announces Safe Streets and Roads for All Grants
On Feb. 1, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced $800 million in grant awards for 510 communities through the first round of funding for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program. These awards include 11 Action Plan Grants for the State of North Carolina. Total funding for Action Plans throughout the state totals $3,690,371. Action Plan Grants assist…
Read article… US DOT Announces Safe Streets and Roads for All Grants
Board Member Spotlight, Deana Acklin
Board Member from Banner Elk, NC Deana returned to North Carolina by way of Montgomery, Alabama where she was devoted to the advancement of all facets of bicycling. She has served on several Bicycle and Pedestrian Committees at both city and state levels. Currently an adjunct instructor teaching traffic cycling certifications within the Outdoor Recreation…
Friendly Driver Program in Fayetteville
Last week Program Manager, Laila Horton delivered the recently updated NC Friendly Driver Program to the City of Fayetteville Police Traffic Support Unit. This represents the first presentation of the program to include new content related to pedestrian safety in addition to the existing bicycle safety content. It is also the first presentation to take…
Board Member Spotlight, Steven Hardy-Braz
Farmville, NC Steven is a passionate cyclist and advocate for safer, more accessible and equitable streets for all vulnerable road users, greenways, and trails. Trained as a school psychologist and sign language interpreter, Steven strives to use those skills on the BWNC board, and while advocating at the local, county, state, and national level for…
North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program Deadline on Jan 31
On January 1st, 2023, the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program (GHSP) began accepting grant applications for highway safety-related projects for Federal FY 2024, which starts on October 1, 2023 and ends on September 30, 2024. The application period will close at 11:59 p.m. on January 31st, 2023. Please keep in mind that all grants…
Read article… North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program Deadline on Jan 31
NC Year of the Trail
BikeWalk NC is proud to be partnering with The Great Trails State Coalition to promote and support 2023 as the “Year of the Trail” in North Carolina. The Great Trails State Coalition is a group of organizations, agencies and supporters advocating for the establishment of a Great Trails State Fund, with funding for all kinds of…
Safe Routes to School Grant Opportunities
North Carolina communities will soon be able to promote the importance of walking and bicycling to school, thanks to a federal grant program. Community organizations have until February 6 to apply for Safe Routes to School grant funding, the N.C. Department of Transportation announced. “Communities can use the funds to develop creative programs that educate community…
A Brief Look Back at 2022
2022 was an exciting and very busy year for BikeWalk NC. Through a generous grant from the Governor’s Highway Safety Program, we began to take our Friendly Driver Program across the state with the hire of our first Programs Manager, Trish Farnham. The program has been extremely well-received, and we will continue to offer it…
Giving Tuesday
The holidays and Giving Tuesday are nearly upon us. The rising number of bicyclist and pedestrian fatalities on our streets shows that our work is more important than ever. Over 1700 people died on North Carolina roadways last year, including 180 bicyclists and pedestrians. This does not include those seriously injured on our streets whose…
NC BikeWalk Transportation Summit Recap
Maybe it’s because we were coming off of two years of virtual or semi-virtual Summits, but the energy at this year’s NC BikeWalk Transportation Summit was palpable. The entire local Summit committee was stoked and ready to welcome everyone to Greenville. The speakers and sessions were off the charts. The locally catered food was delicious,…
Transportation Trivia @ Pitt Street Brewing Company
Join us during the NCBikeWalk Transportation Summit for a social from 5-8pm on Thursday night, October 27th at Pitt Street Brewing Company. There will be Transportation Trivia with prizes and fun – bring your team or make some friends and form one. Good beer, food truck, and a shuttle to/from the hotel!
Read article… Transportation Trivia @ Pitt Street Brewing Company
BikeWalk NC’s first permanent traffic garden coming to Eastern NC
In collaboration with the Town of Winterville, AARP and others, BikeWalk NC will establish the first permanent traffic garden in Eastern NC this fall! A traffic garden is a painted surface that serves as a bicycling safety course. Local community members are now providing input and feedback on three proposed designs from internationally recognized traffic…
Read article… BikeWalk NC’s first permanent traffic garden coming to Eastern NC
Safer Roads for Us All: online presentation
“When you have a brain injury, you have to start over with everything…” -Diamone Ricketts, artist and crash survivor A person’s story can affect us in a way that data and statistics never fully can. The Bicycle Friendly Driver Program was recently honored to partner with the Brain Injury Association of NC, the NC Department…
Trish Farnham is BikeWalk NC’s new Program Manager!
BikeWalk NC is very pleased to introduce Trish Farnham as its first Programs Manager. Trish joined the staff in November of 2021, and will manage BikeWalk NC’s new Bicycle Friendly Driver Safety program and its other educational programs. Trish is a lifelong pedestrian and self-described, unapologetic “basket bike” cyclist. She first became interested in…
Read article… Trish Farnham is BikeWalk NC’s new Program Manager!
Tell your legislator to advance HB 511
NC transportation funding structure’s failure to meet the moment as walking and cycling grow during COVID has been a constant theme over the past year. But, since 2013, our NC General Assembly has prevented stand alone pedestrian and bicycle projects from accessing state transprotation dollars. This has to end. BikeWalkNC successfully advanced similar language in…
NC BikeWalk Summit Highlight
Warren Logan: “The Public Input Process. What’s in Your Toolbox?” In this session, Warren relates the story of creating community trust and support through an honest and unconventional public input process leading to Oakland’s “Slow Streets,” which were established in the early days of the pandemic. https://youtu.be/PJydWAGvFw8
Summit Highlight, Vol 3: Equitable Public Input
All of the BikeWalk NC Summit sessions were amazing this year, but this is one that we deem to be a must-watch for any elected official, planner or participant in the public input process. In this session, panelists discuss why, in order to realize equitable outcomes from our transportation system, we must start by building equitable…
Read article… Summit Highlight, Vol 3: Equitable Public Input
Let’s Build Some Trails!
Durham’s Trail Implementation Program Increased use of trails during the pandemic has amplified the call for trails to be considered “essential infrastructure.” See the steps the City of Durham is taking to move projects from its master trails plan toward design and development. The focus on implementation makes this Plan a unique product in North…
In the Spotlight: Evan Brigham
Evan Brigham joined the BikeWalk NC team two years ago as a replacement for his roommate Dylan Horne, a former BWNC member who left for a cross-country bicycle trip. Evan’s passion for bicycling originally came from an environmental standpoint, but it grew as he became involved with more bicycling organizations. Outside of BWNC, Evan served…
Bike Talk with Ann Groninger Featuring Terry Landsdell
What BikeWalkNC does to improve bicyclingWhat to do if you want to get a law passed or change a lawHow to talk to legislatorsWHY SHOULD SUPPORT BIKEWALKNCa lot of wonky infrastructure stuffand more! watch now
Read article… Bike Talk with Ann Groninger Featuring Terry Landsdell
BWNC Is Planning Your 2021 Summit and Your Input Is Critical
Please save November 3-6 for this year’s BikeWalk NC Summit, then take 2 minutes to provide some important information about your travel and convening comfort level and expectations.
Read article… BWNC Is Planning Your 2021 Summit and Your Input Is Critical
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. After approving last meeting’s minutes, 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 League of American Bicyclists’ National Summit
The 2021 National Bike Summit will take place online, February 28 – March 3, 2021, with daily convenings beginning at 1pm ET / 10am PT. This year’s theme is “Bikes: Our Vehicle for Change” in recognition of the power of bicycling to move us forward, even in the most challenging of times.
Read article… The League of American Bicyclists’ National Summit
Pre-Summit Social and Q&A on E-bikes and Cargo bikes with Arleigh Greenwald
Arleigh Greenwald is the owner of Bike Shop Girl Bikes in Aurora, CO. A mom and life long bike industry employee with over 18+ years as a professional mechanic, she has guided many in their purchase of a cargo bike and inspired countless others to “bike more and worry less,” (a philosophy we can all relate…
Read article… Pre-Summit Social and Q&A on E-bikes and Cargo bikes with Arleigh Greenwald
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
