Thursday, May 6, 2010
AAA Mid-Atlantic bashes Pennsylvania Ave. bike lanes
Most cyclists that I know drive cars. Maybe not as much as other people, but we use cars to go on longer trips, sometimes for grocery shopping, and for many of the other trips that we don't take by bike. Many of us also purchase travel services, either from our primary auto insurance company or from groups like AAA or Better World Club.If you are a member of AAA Mid-Atlantic you might want to think twice about your membership. NEW BIKE LANES COULD MAKE A BAD THING WORSE IN DOWNTOWN WASHINGTON, SAYS AAA: Protected Bike Lane Project Would Remove Six Miles Of Traffic Lane; New Bike Lanes Won't Entice District Motorists Out Of Cars, AAA Poll Shows. That's the (long) title of a recent AAA press release that is very critical of the Pennsylvania Ave. bike lanes.
AAA claims that "It is unlikely the addition of new bike lanes in Washington's Central Business District will entice most motorists out of their cars or attract more residents to bicycling to work. That's according to the findings of AAA Mid-Atlantic's latest survey of District motorists." But then they state that "20 percent of surveyed AAA members in the District said the changes would compel them to become regular bicycle commuters." Just think what a 20% bicycle mode share could mean for the District.
"Motorists are concerned that congestion will become even more pronounced because reductions in lane width generally trigger reductions in traffic flow, travel times and capacity. That’s the biggest issue." In fact, according to FHWA, reducing lane width in "reduced-speed urban environments" is commonly used to create bike lanes and narrow crossing distance for pedestrians and has little impact on traffic.
AAA Mid-Atlantic "is encouraging commuters and District motorists to voice their concerns about the proposal." We encourage you to voice your concerns to AAA Mid-Atlantic to let them know you don't appreciate your membership money going toward bicycle-bashing press releases. You can also let the Transportation Planning Board know that you support DDOT's bike lane proposal in the 2010 Draft update to the CLRP.
By the way, Better World Club has a Bike road assistance program that includes Bike Discounts, information on traveling with your bike and more. We're members and in our opinion, they are a much better option for travel services.See related stories at The Wash Cycle: Penn Ave. Bike Lanes: AAA is crushing us
League of American Bicyclists: Bike Lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue (updated)
Labels: bike lanes, pennsylvania ave.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Sign petition against to fight cuts in bicycle funding proposed by AAA
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has received more than 30,000 signatures on their petition to AAA opposing cuts to bicycle facility funding. More than half of the signatures are from AAA members. From the Rails-to-Trails AAA petition page:The president of AAA Mid-Atlantic recently advocated for the elimination of existing federal programs that help build bicycle and pedestrian trails and sidewalks from the trust fund that finances transportation. These funds have helped create more than 19,000 miles of trails, walking and bicycling facilities across the country—likely including your favorite nearby trail.
AAA Mid-Atlantic suggests that an $89 billion annual highway fund shortfall can be blamed on investments in walking and bicycling. But those investments total less than $1 billion annually and produce tremendous benefits for everyone, including drivers.
The reality is that many bicyclists drive, support AAA, pay gas taxes and want balanced transportation systems that provide the choice to get around in a variety of ways—for commuting or daily errands, or for fun and exercise.
If AAA's false ideas take root, America’s transportation future—one where communities are more livable and people have safe and convenient choices for getting around—is in jeopardy.
Help us show AAA that trail, walking and bicycling programs actually benefit everyone, very much including their own members!
Send a message to AAA and sign the petition today.AAA Mid-Atlantic suggests that an $89 billion annual highway fund shortfall can be blamed on investments in walking and bicycling. But those investments total less than $1 billion annually and produce tremendous benefits for everyone, including drivers.
The reality is that many bicyclists drive, support AAA, pay gas taxes and want balanced transportation systems that provide the choice to get around in a variety of ways—for commuting or daily errands, or for fun and exercise.
If AAA's false ideas take root, America’s transportation future—one where communities are more livable and people have safe and convenient choices for getting around—is in jeopardy.
Help us show AAA that trail, walking and bicycling programs actually benefit everyone, very much including their own members!
Labels: AAA, aaa mid-atlantic
Monday, May 18, 2015
AAA provides bicycle roadside assistance to members
AAA recently announced that it will provide bicycle roadside assistance to all members starting May 1. According to the Bicycle FAQ, recumbents, trikes, and other bikes that cannot be transported on a standard bike rack are not included. If you are towing a trailer, it is covered if it can fit into the service vehicle.The service is available on a "normally traveled road." If you're riding on the W&OD Trail or some other major trail and you break down, you'll need to move the bike to the nearest road.
From AAA:
Benefits:
- There is no additional charge to Members for bicycle coverage. Any of the Members roadside assistance calls can be used for bicycles
- AAA Bicycle coverage is included in all membership levels - Basic, Plus, Premier & RV!
- The bicycle towing mileage is the same as vehicle towing mileage - 3 miles for Basic, 100 miles for Plus/Premier and one 200 mile tow for a Premier household.
- Member must be present at the time of service and have a valid AAA Mid-Atlantic card.
- Bicycle service is not available to Members of other AAA clubs.
- Bicycle service applies to all 2-wheeled bicycles, including rental bicycles & tandem/trailers pulled by bicycles.
- Bicycle service is limited to transporting a bicycle (Back home, to bike repair shop etc.) due to breakdown disablement. Mechanical repairs not included, including bicycle lock service.
- Service is provided only along a normally traveled road or street.
- AAA Bicycle Service is provided to AAA Mid-Atlantic Members only within the AAA Mid-Atlantic territories.*
- Bicycle service is provided for the rider whose bicycle is disabled and accompanying minors.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Share the Road video from LAB and AAA
AAA and the League of American Bicyclists joined forces to produce a good video showing that "cyclists" are people: fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, husbands, and wives. See the Streetsblogs post AAA Releases Bike Safety PSA at Bike Summit.We're hopeful that AAA is sincere in their partnership with the League. AAA Mid-Atlantic has been one of the most consistently anti-bike organizations around. For details, search the term "AAA" on the WashCycle. We're hoping that the Mid-Atlantic office is just out of step with the rest of AAA.
Anyway, we like the video and hope it's seen by lots of people.
We're working on a recap of the bike summit; we'll post it any day now.
Labels: AAA, aaa mid-atlantic, the wash cycle
Friday, May 7, 2010
AAA Mid-Atlantic responds
See comments on the earlier post AAA Mid-Atlantic bashes Pennsylvania Ave. bike lanes. One is from someone who works for AAA Mid-Atlantic and the other is an official response received from AAA Mid-Atlantic. Both claim there was not enough public review of the project which has been part of the DC Bicycle Master Plan since 2005. That process included considerable public comment and review. Calling for an Environmental Impact Study now is the same tactic used in San Francisco to block any new bike projects for three years.Bike lanes to allow more people to use bicycles for transportation (20% of all drivers want to go by bike according to AAA Mid-Atlantic) should be a win-win for all users of the transportation system. We hope AAA Mid-Atlantic recognizes that and supports future bike lane projects.
Labels: aaa mid-atlantic, bike lanes, pennsylvania ave.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
New survey shows overwhelming support for bike facilities
The national survey, performed by Princeton Survey Research Associates International, asked 1,003 adults in the United States about their opinions on federal funding for sidewalks, bike lanes, and bike paths. The results were astounding — and bipartisan:
- 83 percent of all respondents support maintaining or growing the federal funding streams that pay for sidewalks, bikeways, and bike paths.
- 80 percent of Republican respondents and 88 percent of Democrat respondents think Congress should maintain or increase federal funds for biking and walking.
- 91 percent of respondents between the ages of 18 and 29 support continuing or increasing biking and walking funds.
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| Congressman Blumenauer |
Update-May 10: Post transportation reporter Ashley Halsey III wrote an article about the survey, Advocacy group says public supports federal fuuding for bikes, pedestrians. The first quote is from well-known cycling expert, AAA's John B. Townsend II. I don't recall AAA ever being called an "advocacy group" in the many Halsey articles that quote from AAA press releases and yet those are the first two words Halsey's article on the America Bikes survey.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
AAA to offer bicycle roadside assistance
As far as I know, Better World Club is the only roadside assistance organization that includes bicycles. That could change according to the BikePortland post entitled AAA will extend roadside assistance to bicycles.The Oregon/Idaho chapter of the American Automobile Association (a.k.a. “Triple A”) is set to announce that their legendary roadside assistance plan will now cover people riding bicycles. "You've been riding to save gas or stay in shape. For that, you deserve credit. Now AAA Plus provides you with added benefits to recognize your efforts and your lifestyle."
The service is to be announced tomorrow.Labels: roadside assistance
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Bike/Car/Bus Challenge
To prove that bicycling is a good option for short trips we've challenged some local officials to compare travel time for bike/car/bus for a 3 mile trip to the Reston Town Center. Starting near South Lakes HS I will be bicycling on roads and trails. Delegate Ken Plum will drive his hybrid car, and Kathleen Driscoll McKee will take the bus. We'll compare travel times and we'll compare the cost of the trips, including the direct cost of the trip (breakfast for me, gas for Del. Plum, and bus fare for Ms. McKee), the cost of annual maintenance (bike/car), and other indirect costs such as "free" parking and air pollution. See our news release for more info:
Bike/Car/Bus Challenge to be held on Monday, May 2, 2011
Reston, VA, April 26, 2011 - Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 20 at the Reston Town Center Pavilion. To promote traveling by bicycle, on Monday, May 2, several residents of Reston are holding a bike/car/bus commute challenge. The purpose of the challenge is to compare the cost and travel time of the three modes during a typical short commute within Reston. For short trips, bicycle travel time compares favorably to car and bus travel times, and the cost of the trip is much less. National surveys indicate that nearly 50 percent of all trips are 3 miles or less.
The event will begin at 8:15 a.m. on May 2 and will last approximately an hour. The participants will leave from Cobblestone Lane in south Reston and travel to the Reston Town Center Pavilion, slightly more than 3 miles away. Each participant will be timed. The motorist must park in long term parking, as if he is going to be working at the Town Center for the day, and walk to the Pavilion. The bicyclist must also park and lock his bike and walk to the Pavilion. The bus rider’s time includes walking to and from the bus stop. People can choose their own route and must obey traffic rules.
Bruce Wright, Chairman of Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling, will ride his bicycle, Del. Ken Plum will drive his hybrid car, and Reston Association President Kathleen Driscoll McKee will ride the bus. "I'm confident I can get to the Town Center before Ken and Kathleen. On a bicycle I'm not affected as much by congestion on the road," said Bruce. "Plus, I'll have fun, save money, and get a workout at the same time." Hunter Mill District Supervisor Cathy Hudgins has been invited to meet everyone at the Town Center.
The cost of maintaining a bike is around $200/year. By comparison AAA estimates that the cost of maintaining a car is about $8,000/year, more than most people spend on clothing, health care and entertainment combined. Driving also has many indirect costs as well. Nationwide, motorist user fees pay for about half the cost of building and maintaining roads. All of us pay for the rest of the cost. Most of us also pay for “free” parking by paying higher prices for goods and services. The cost of one structured car parking space is around $15,000. The cost of a bicycle rack is approximately $300 installed. Transit costs are more difficult to quantify, varying by type and usage.
For more information contact Bruce Wright at 703-328-9619, chairman@fabb-bikes.org.
Resources
Bicycle trip planning:
Google Maps: http://maps.google.com/
Walk Score: http://www.walkscore.com/
Ride the City DC Metro: http://www.ridethecity.com/dc
Transit:
WMATA’s Trip Planner: http://www.wmata.com/rider_tools/tripplanner/
Reston, VA, April 26, 2011 - Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 20 at the Reston Town Center Pavilion. To promote traveling by bicycle, on Monday, May 2, several residents of Reston are holding a bike/car/bus commute challenge. The purpose of the challenge is to compare the cost and travel time of the three modes during a typical short commute within Reston. For short trips, bicycle travel time compares favorably to car and bus travel times, and the cost of the trip is much less. National surveys indicate that nearly 50 percent of all trips are 3 miles or less.
The event will begin at 8:15 a.m. on May 2 and will last approximately an hour. The participants will leave from Cobblestone Lane in south Reston and travel to the Reston Town Center Pavilion, slightly more than 3 miles away. Each participant will be timed. The motorist must park in long term parking, as if he is going to be working at the Town Center for the day, and walk to the Pavilion. The bicyclist must also park and lock his bike and walk to the Pavilion. The bus rider’s time includes walking to and from the bus stop. People can choose their own route and must obey traffic rules.
Bruce Wright, Chairman of Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling, will ride his bicycle, Del. Ken Plum will drive his hybrid car, and Reston Association President Kathleen Driscoll McKee will ride the bus. "I'm confident I can get to the Town Center before Ken and Kathleen. On a bicycle I'm not affected as much by congestion on the road," said Bruce. "Plus, I'll have fun, save money, and get a workout at the same time." Hunter Mill District Supervisor Cathy Hudgins has been invited to meet everyone at the Town Center.
The cost of maintaining a bike is around $200/year. By comparison AAA estimates that the cost of maintaining a car is about $8,000/year, more than most people spend on clothing, health care and entertainment combined. Driving also has many indirect costs as well. Nationwide, motorist user fees pay for about half the cost of building and maintaining roads. All of us pay for the rest of the cost. Most of us also pay for “free” parking by paying higher prices for goods and services. The cost of one structured car parking space is around $15,000. The cost of a bicycle rack is approximately $300 installed. Transit costs are more difficult to quantify, varying by type and usage.
For more information contact Bruce Wright at 703-328-9619, chairman@fabb-bikes.org.
Resources
Bicycle trip planning:
Google Maps: http://maps.google.com/
Walk Score: http://www.walkscore.com/
Ride the City DC Metro: http://www.ridethecity.com/dc
Transit:
WMATA’s Trip Planner: http://www.wmata.com/rider_tools/tripplanner/
Update: See Dr. Gridlock's blog post on the challenge
Wright is hoping that the Reston competition will encourage commuters not only to participate in the annual Bike to Work Day on May 20 but also to consider biking as a realistic alternative to motor vehicles.
He says the annual cost of maintaining a bike is about $200. (Which tells me he maintains his bike a lot better than I maintain mine.) By comparison, he says, it costs about $8,000 a year to keep a car, citing an AAA estimate.
"Wright has challenged me several times now to set up one of our Post "Which Way?" commuting features as a bike vs. car competition, and I do plan to take him up on that."
He says the annual cost of maintaining a bike is about $200. (Which tells me he maintains his bike a lot better than I maintain mine.) By comparison, he says, it costs about $8,000 a year to keep a car, citing an AAA estimate.
"Wright has challenged me several times now to set up one of our Post "Which Way?" commuting features as a bike vs. car competition, and I do plan to take him up on that."
Labels: bike to work day, bike/car/bus challenge
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
VDOT Six-Year Plan public hearing tonight
The Commonwealth Transportation Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP or Six-Year Plan) tonight, Wednesday, May 4 at the new VDOT District Office, Potomac Conference Center, 4975 Alliance Drive, Suite 1N201, Fairfax, VA 22030 starting at 7 p.m. This is a chance for cyclists to ask for better bicycle facilities in Northern Virginia.There is bike parking at the new VDOT location. Unfortunately it's a large wave rack located across the road from the main building. (Does anyone else think the bike community should start a campaign to get ride of wave racks? Capacity is always overstated, there's only one contact point with the bike, and they are awkward to use.)
Below are draft FABB comments on the plan that we will present tonight. If you would like to make comments send them to six-yearprogram@vdot.virginia.gov.
SIX-YEAR IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM COMMENTS
Bruce Wright, Chairman, Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling
May 4, 2011
Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the Six Year Plan. We all know that maintenance of our roads and trails continues to be a problem. It's embarrassing how poorly our roads are maintained, with crumbling pavement and unswept debris that is a hazard to motorists and bicyclists, and vegetation blocking sight distance in many places. Bicyclists are affected more than most road users by these unsafe road hazards. When we hit a pothole, crack in the pavement, or debris we suffer much greater consequences than a motorist in a heavy vehicle.
The FFX Co Parkway trail has never been repaved. It has grass growing in cracks and has no wayfinding signage in several places where the trail diverges from the parkway. Our group has asked that the trail be signed for the past 5 years without success.
VDOT’s number one priority should be to repair and maintain our existing roads and trails. Maintenance crews are not to blame; they are likely just as frustrated as the rest of us. They need adequate funds to get their job done.
In many areas, VDOT is not adhering to their bike/ped policy which states that bike lanes and paved shoulders will be repaired, replaced and cleared of debris and snow and ice. It also states that shared use paths in the department right-of-way will be maintained through replacement and repair. We need a better plan to fix the billion+ in structurally deficient pavement on our roads and trails.
Crash mitigation is another way to reduce congestion without building more capacity. According to AAA, “Forty to 50 percent of all nonrecurring congestion is associated with traffic incidents.” This should be obvious after listening to morning traffic reports on congestion and crashes in our area. From my reading of the SYIP, only $3M is devoted to this work in all of VA in FY2012, and nothing in FY13-17. We need to do a better job of mitigating these crashes by devoting appropriate resources to reduce their impact on congestion.
We also hope that you will fully fund multi-modal access improvements in the Tysons area (Tysons Metrorail Access Improvement project (UPC 100469). In the SYIP only $19M of the requested $56M is being funded through 2017. Only $4M of the needed $14M for preliminary engineering in 2012 will be funded even though the Silver line Metro stations will open in 2013. In order for Metrorail to be successful, access to the stations needs to be improved for all modes. The county now has a plan for future bike facilities in Tysons and these facilities should be funded before the stations open.
We agree with Governor McDonnell who said “Virginians must begin a fundamental shift in the way we travel to take greater advantage of the transportation options available to us today.” We do need better options, and bicycle facilities are an inexpensive, sustainable way to provide some of those options.
And finally, to repeat comments from last year, it's time VDOT hired a bike coordinator and finalized the State Bicycle Policy Plan. It's inexcusable that the coordinator position has been vacant for nearly a year and a half.
Labels: six year plan, vdot
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Long commute? Try biking part of your route on Bike to Work Day
Many people have long commutes and think that biking to work is not possible for them. However, there are many options for using your bike for part of your commute to work. During a bike commuting seminar in Tysons last week we heard about one employee who takes his bike on the commuter bus from Ashburn in the morning and then rides home after work. The one-way 16 mile commute home is a great way to reduce stress and get a workout, and he's not as concerned about being sweaty.See the Commuter Connections press release on ways to use bikes for part of your commute:
Long Commute? Cycle to Metrorail, Metrobus and Park and Ride Lots on Bike to Work Day
Commuter Connections Provides Options for Every Commuter at May 20 Regional Event
Washington, D.C. - Commuter Connections urges commuters whose trip to work is too far to travel by bicycle alone to participate in Bike to Work Day (BTWD) on May 20 by cycling to their local Metro station, bus stop or park and ride lot. With 1,700 free bike racks and 1,280 lockers available for rental in the Metro system and every Metrobus equipped with a rack for two bikes, even those with a long commute can enjoy the health-, environment- and cost-saving benefits of cycling to work. Metrorail's Bike ‘N Ride program also permits cyclists to bring their bikes on railcars during certain hours.
"Bike to Work Day is an option even for those with long commutes," said Nicholas Ramfos, Director of Commuter Connections. A 2007 State of the Commute Survey by MWCOG found that drive-alone commuters traveled on average 16.4 miles one way and commuter rail riders traveled an average of 27 miles each way. "Our goal is to encourage commuters to think of ways to substitute their bicycles for the portion of their commute they may travel alone by car."
Thousands of commuters have already registered for this year's BTWD event, and Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) are inviting all commuters to explore the many car-free commute options the area has to offer. There is still time to be among the first 9,000 bicyclists who register at www.waba.org to receive a free Bike to Work Day t-shirt and be entered into a raffle for prizes that include bicycles from Brompton, Giant, Jamis, and Linus, plus bike accessories.
Last year a record number of commuters left their cars behind for a day to promote bicycling to work as a fun, healthy, environmentally friendly, and low-cost alternative to drive-alone commuting. This year, 49 pit stops will be available across the Washington Metropolitan region, offering cyclists food, beverages, speakers and chances to win prizes. When registering online at www.waba.org, cyclists will select which pit stop they will visit to pick up their free Bike to Work Day t-shirt.
Cyclists can also choose to join one of over two dozen bicycle Commuter Convoys that are now being organized for Bike to Work Day. Commuter convoys are led by experienced bicycle commuters and will travel throughout the region. All bicyclists both new and experienced are welcome to join any of the convoys. Find a convenient convoy route to your work place here.
The generous contributions of these major sponsors help to make Bike to Work Day a successful event - Marriott International, ICF International, DC Lottery, goDCgo, Whole Foods Market, AAA Mid-Atlantic, Bike Arlington, City of Alexandria, City Bikes and BicycleSPACE.
Gear Up and register for Bike to Work Day at www.waba.org or by calling 202-518-0524.
Commuter Connections Provides Options for Every Commuter at May 20 Regional Event
Washington, D.C. - Commuter Connections urges commuters whose trip to work is too far to travel by bicycle alone to participate in Bike to Work Day (BTWD) on May 20 by cycling to their local Metro station, bus stop or park and ride lot. With 1,700 free bike racks and 1,280 lockers available for rental in the Metro system and every Metrobus equipped with a rack for two bikes, even those with a long commute can enjoy the health-, environment- and cost-saving benefits of cycling to work. Metrorail's Bike ‘N Ride program also permits cyclists to bring their bikes on railcars during certain hours.
"Bike to Work Day is an option even for those with long commutes," said Nicholas Ramfos, Director of Commuter Connections. A 2007 State of the Commute Survey by MWCOG found that drive-alone commuters traveled on average 16.4 miles one way and commuter rail riders traveled an average of 27 miles each way. "Our goal is to encourage commuters to think of ways to substitute their bicycles for the portion of their commute they may travel alone by car."
Thousands of commuters have already registered for this year's BTWD event, and Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) are inviting all commuters to explore the many car-free commute options the area has to offer. There is still time to be among the first 9,000 bicyclists who register at www.waba.org to receive a free Bike to Work Day t-shirt and be entered into a raffle for prizes that include bicycles from Brompton, Giant, Jamis, and Linus, plus bike accessories.
Last year a record number of commuters left their cars behind for a day to promote bicycling to work as a fun, healthy, environmentally friendly, and low-cost alternative to drive-alone commuting. This year, 49 pit stops will be available across the Washington Metropolitan region, offering cyclists food, beverages, speakers and chances to win prizes. When registering online at www.waba.org, cyclists will select which pit stop they will visit to pick up their free Bike to Work Day t-shirt.
Cyclists can also choose to join one of over two dozen bicycle Commuter Convoys that are now being organized for Bike to Work Day. Commuter convoys are led by experienced bicycle commuters and will travel throughout the region. All bicyclists both new and experienced are welcome to join any of the convoys. Find a convenient convoy route to your work place here.
The generous contributions of these major sponsors help to make Bike to Work Day a successful event - Marriott International, ICF International, DC Lottery, goDCgo, Whole Foods Market, AAA Mid-Atlantic, Bike Arlington, City of Alexandria, City Bikes and BicycleSPACE.
Gear Up and register for Bike to Work Day at www.waba.org or by calling 202-518-0524.
Labels: bike to work day
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
March-April 2017 FABB News
A bi-monthly publication of the Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling
Board of Supervisors Endorses Bicycle Parking Guidelines
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recently endorsed the county's Bicycle Parking Guidelines that have been in development for almost 10 years. Kudos to the Board, and to FCDOT staff for their work over the years developing the guidelines and working them through the approval process.
FABB began advocating for these guidelines in 2007 when we met with Supervisor Smyth to discuss the importance of the county having guidelines for developers and others to implement safe, convenient bike parking. The guidelines will be applied to all new developments in the county. While existing developments are not required to install bike parking, they now have guidelines to use when bike parking is provided. Please refer to the guidelines when asking for bike parking.
New bike lanes -- and a sidewalk! -- connect GMU and downtown Fairfax
In February, the City of Fairfax added bike lanes to a three-block section of University Drive between George Mason University and downtown. Fairfax opted for a road diet, converting the four-lane road to two through lanes with a center two-way turn lane and 5.5’ bike lanes. The road diet begins just north of City Hall and ends a few blocks south of downtown. In another piece of good news, the City also addressed a major safety hazard for pedestrians by adding a new sidewalk on the west side.
Representatives from FABB, George Mason University and other community members supported the road diet, and the City Council approved it in 2015 as a one-year pilot project to calm traffic, improve safety and increase bicycling. The new configuration will be evaluated for safety. Other road diets in Fairfax County, and throughout the U.S., have measurably improved safety for all users.
Virginia 2017 General Assembly Wrap Up
The 2017 Virginia legislative session ended with a win for bike lanes. Legislation ensuring highway maintenance payments are not reduced to municipalities who choose to reconfigure their roadways with road diets and bike lanes passed unanimously in both the House and Senate. This is an important win for bicyclists as it chips away at putting cycling needs on par with motor vehicles.
It was an odd mix of legislation this year with several bipartisan bills put forward in the House and Senate. Other bills that passed included legislation that tightened vision test standards for drivers and another that addressed dog bites. Unfortunately, bills addressing distracted driving, vulnerable users and handheld phone usage all failed to get out of committee. Read more at the Virginia Bicycling Federation.
Vote for FABB as Most Valuable Clean Air Partner
FABB is excited to have been nominated by Clean Air Partners as a Most Valuable Partner in their Best in Air awards. Clean Air Partners recognize FABB’s work promoting bicycling and that more people biking would have a positive impact on our regional air quality. We need your help to win! Please vote for FABB here.
FABB is excited to have been nominated by Clean Air Partners as a Most Valuable Partner in their Best in Air awards. Clean Air Partners recognize FABB’s work promoting bicycling and that more people biking would have a positive impact on our regional air quality. We need your help to win! Please vote for FABB here.
Clean Air Partners is a regional group working to educate the Washington-Baltimore region on ways to reduce their environmental impact and exposure to air pollution. FABB has worked with Clean Air Partners in the past, using their Air Quality Forecast widget to notify cyclists about Code Red and Code Orange air quality warnings.
Regional Vision Zero Summit Planned
The DC region’s inaugural Vision Zero Summit is being held on March 31 at GW University's Milken Institute of Public Health. Hear from leaders in the Vision Zero movement and learn about the latest regional efforts in ending traffic deaths. According the summit website, “Vision Zero is a public commitment to ending all traffic deaths and serious injuries. The data-driven initiative works by designing safer streets, effective traffic enforcement, and increased public education and outreach.” The Washington Area Bicycling Association is holding the summit in conjuction with GW University Hospital and AAA-Mid Atlantic.
Around the region, Washington D.C. and the City of Alexandria have embraced Vision Zero. Fairfax County has not yet enacted a Vision Zero policy. However, VDOT has adopted a similar effort and as we know, the State of Virginia owns our roads. It's not as rigorous as Vision Zero but is a good start.
FABB will sponsor a couple people to attend the summit so if you’re interested in attending, please drop us an email.
FABB will sponsor a couple people to attend the summit so if you’re interested in attending, please drop us an email.
FCDOT Holds Meetings on Roadway Safety Improvements
Fairfax County is off to a productive start in 2017 holding several community meetings in January and February on proposed bike lanes and safety improvements to roadways around the county. The improvements are part of VDOT’s 2017 repaving program. Proposals include enhancements to Greeley Boulevard, Hillside Road, and Braeburn Drive in Springfield and Braddock districts.
In the Mason District, they hope to build out more of the network laid down last summer in Annandale with the addition of bike lanes on Hummer Road, Sleepy Hollow Road and sharrows on Little River Turnpike service roads. Several roads in the Lee District could see bike infrastructure including sections of Harrison Lane, Memorial Street, Bedrock Road, Vantage Drive, and Rolling Stone Way.
The Hunter Mill Street Design Improvements community meeting is coming up on March 16th. FCDOT and VDOT representatives will be on hand to discuss proposed traffic, bicycling and pedestrian safety improvements in the Reston area, including sections of North Shore Drive, Twin Branches Road and Colts Neck Road. Support is needed to ensure these safety improvements happen. Please consider attending the meeting or submitting comments. For more information check out FABB’s Reston Bike Meeting blog post.
Fairfax County Budget Meetings Scheduled
Fairfax County is holding town hall meetings to allow citizens to learn about the proposed budget and a chance to tell your county representatives about your priorities. We encourage cyclists to attend one of these meetings to tell county representatives that our trails are in very poor condition and we shouldn't ignore needed maintenance any longer. Check out FABB’s blog for a list of town hall dates. If you can't attend a meeting, consider writing to your County Supervisor and Chairman Bulova.
FABB Meeting in Oakton March 15, Falls Church in April
Join FABB at our monthly meeting on March 15th to hear from Fionnuala Quinn about the great things going on at the Bureau of Good Roads. We’ll also discuss the latest bike news and county update. FABB’s meeting will be held at the Oakton Public library (10304 Lynnhaven Pl, Oakton, VA), starting at 7:30.
Mark your calendars! In April, the FABB meeting will be in Falls Church. We’re meeting at the City Hall Dogwood Room, 300 Park Ave. Hope you can join us.
FABB Board Convenes for Annual Strategy Session
FABB’s Board of Directors met on Saturday, Feb 18th for a strategy and planning session. This half-day working meeting included a review of the 2016 results before outlining our goals and objectives for 2017. Additionally, the team took some time to conduct a SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threats) analysis to help identify areas of growth. The objectives and activities discussed support FABB’s goals of expanding outreach, advocacy and public support throughout the County.
The board will review this plan in six months to assess progress and make updates as needed. A high-level version of the plan will be shared at an upcoming FABB monthly meeting!
FABB at SpringFest 2017
FABB will once again participate in SpringFest 2017, a free, all-day celebration of Earth and Arbor Days sponsored by the Clean Fairfax Council. The event will be held April 29th and offer plentiful entertainment for children, environmental exhibitors, farmers market and much more. Temporary bicycle parking will be available. This year Springfest has a new location at the Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way in Chantilly.
FABB is looking for volunteers for Springfest. Are you interested in organizing rides to/from the event, or helping at FABB’s table? Contact Howard Albers for more information.
Fairfax County is off to a productive start in 2017 holding several community meetings in January and February on proposed bike lanes and safety improvements to roadways around the county. The improvements are part of VDOT’s 2017 repaving program. Proposals include enhancements to Greeley Boulevard, Hillside Road, and Braeburn Drive in Springfield and Braddock districts. In the Mason District, they hope to build out more of the network laid down last summer in Annandale with the addition of bike lanes on Hummer Road, Sleepy Hollow Road and sharrows on Little River Turnpike service roads. Several roads in the Lee District could see bike infrastructure including sections of Harrison Lane, Memorial Street, Bedrock Road, Vantage Drive, and Rolling Stone Way.
The Hunter Mill Street Design Improvements community meeting is coming up on March 16th. FCDOT and VDOT representatives will be on hand to discuss proposed traffic, bicycling and pedestrian safety improvements in the Reston area, including sections of North Shore Drive, Twin Branches Road and Colts Neck Road. Support is needed to ensure these safety improvements happen. Please consider attending the meeting or submitting comments. For more information check out FABB’s Reston Bike Meeting blog post.
Fairfax County Budget Meetings Scheduled
Fairfax County is holding town hall meetings to allow citizens to learn about the proposed budget and a chance to tell your county representatives about your priorities. We encourage cyclists to attend one of these meetings to tell county representatives that our trails are in very poor condition and we shouldn't ignore needed maintenance any longer. Check out FABB’s blog for a list of town hall dates. If you can't attend a meeting, consider writing to your County Supervisor and Chairman Bulova.
FABB Meeting in Oakton March 15, Falls Church in April
Join FABB at our monthly meeting on March 15th to hear from Fionnuala Quinn about the great things going on at the Bureau of Good Roads. We’ll also discuss the latest bike news and county update. FABB’s meeting will be held at the Oakton Public library (10304 Lynnhaven Pl, Oakton, VA), starting at 7:30.
Mark your calendars! In April, the FABB meeting will be in Falls Church. We’re meeting at the City Hall Dogwood Room, 300 Park Ave. Hope you can join us.
FABB Board Convenes for Annual Strategy Session
FABB’s Board of Directors met on Saturday, Feb 18th for a strategy and planning session. This half-day working meeting included a review of the 2016 results before outlining our goals and objectives for 2017. Additionally, the team took some time to conduct a SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threats) analysis to help identify areas of growth. The objectives and activities discussed support FABB’s goals of expanding outreach, advocacy and public support throughout the County.
The board will review this plan in six months to assess progress and make updates as needed. A high-level version of the plan will be shared at an upcoming FABB monthly meeting!
FABB at SpringFest 2017
FABB will once again participate in SpringFest 2017, a free, all-day celebration of Earth and Arbor Days sponsored by the Clean Fairfax Council. The event will be held April 29th and offer plentiful entertainment for children, environmental exhibitors, farmers market and much more. Temporary bicycle parking will be available. This year Springfest has a new location at the Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way in Chantilly.
FABB is looking for volunteers for Springfest. Are you interested in organizing rides to/from the event, or helping at FABB’s table? Contact Howard Albers for more information.
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If you don't already, please Like us on Facebook and follow our Twitter feed. If you have news about bicycling in Fairfax to share with our readers, please submit brief articles to news@fabb-bikes.org
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
- March 6-9 - 2017 National Bike Summit, Washington, D.C.
- March 9 - Burke VRE Connector Trail Meeting, 6:30pm, 6060 Burke Centre Pkwy, Burke, VA
- March 15 - FABB Monthly Meeting, 7:30pm, Oakton Public Library, 10304 Lynnhaven Pl, Oakton, VA
- March 16 - Reston Bike Lane Meeting, 6:30pm, Dogwood Elementary School, 12300 State Rte 4721, Reston, VA
- March 22 - FABB Board meeting, 7pm, location TBD
- March 28, Lee District Bike Lane Meeting, 6:30pm, Crestwood Elementary School, 6010 Hanover Ave., Springfield, VA
- March 31 - Vision Zero Summit, 9am – 5pm, George Washington University Hospital 900 23rd St NW, Washington, DC
- April 8 - Opening Days for Trails 5K Fun Run, 8am, Bluemont Park, N Manchester St & 4th St N, Arlington, VA
- April 19 - FABB Monthly Meeting, 7:30pm, Dogwood Room, Falls Church City Hall, 300 Park Ave. Falls Church, VA
- April 29 - SpringFest, The Sully Historic Site, 3650 Sully Historic Way
Labels: bicycle parking guidelines, fabb newsletter, vision zero
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Millennials in Motion
This trend has major implications for how we spend our transportation dollars in the future. Most local jurisdictions are now basing their spending on outdated models that assume nearly everyone will drive in the future. Numerous road projects will be built in the near future based on these projections.
From the Executive Summary:
Now is the time for the nation’s transportation policies to acknowledge, accommodate and support Millennials’ demands for a greater array of transportation choices.
Millennials are less car-focused than older Americans and previous generations of young people, and their transportation behaviors continue to change in ways that reduce driving.
Millennials are less car-focused than older Americans and previous generations of young people, and their transportation behaviors continue to change in ways that reduce driving.
- Between 2001 and 2009, the average number of miles driven by 16 to 34 year-olds dropped by 23 percent, as a result of young people taking fewer trips, shorter trips, and a larger share of trips by modes other than driving. Young Americans drive less than older Americans and use public transpor- tation more, and often use multiple modes of travel during a typical day or week.
- In recent years, young people appear to have continued to shift away from driving:
- Census data show that the share of 16 to 24 year-olds traveling to work by car declined by 1.5 percentage points between 2006 and 2013, while the share of young people getting to work by public transportation, on foot or by bi- cycle, or else working from home, had increased.
- Young people aged 20 to 30 are less likely to move from central cities to suburbs than a decade ago.
- Driver’s licensing among young people has continued to decline. The percentage of high school seniors with driver’s licenses declined from 85 percent to 73 percent between 1996 and 2010, according to the AAA Founda- tion for Highway Safety, with federal data suggesting that the decline has continued since 2010.
- Young people are not the only Americans who are driving less. The number of miles driven by the average American has declined nearly continuously since 2004. Americans now drive no more in total than we did in 2005 and no more on average than we did at the beginning of President Bill Clinton’s second term in office.
Labels: millennials
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Slow down, and pipe down
The Post has a good response to motorists who complain because they get caught driving at least 10 mph over the speed limit in DC: Slow down, and pipe down: Traffic scofflaws have no standing to object to candid cameras. Only the worst of the worst traffic offenders are ever caught speeding, and when they do they (and their enablers at AAA Mid Atlantic) complain about the unfairness of speed cameras (in typical Post fashion, the online headline is different that than the print headline). The Post has no sympathy for those drivers:
HERE’S AN IDEA for motorists who complain about having to pay the fines assessed by the District’s traffic cameras: Obey the laws. Driving the speed limit, stopping at red lights and not making prohibited right turns on red are the best defense against getting a ticket. More important, compliance with traffic laws—something indisputably boosted by these much-maligned cameras—enhances safety.
Labels: speed cameras
Friday, April 1, 2016
Active Transportation Study: Bike-Friendly Communities in Demand
It is good to see The Washington Post reporting this week on findings from a recently published Urban Land Institute study on active transportation and real estate that focused on a trend in developers building more “trail-oriented” communities to meet a growing demand for bike-friendly and walkable places to live and work. According to the report, the developers are taking advantage of government investments in recreational trails, a shift toward more urban and car-free lifestyles, and demand from people who can’t afford a car or choose to forego driving for health or environmental reasons. Developments profiled in the study, including the nearby The Flats at Bethesda Avenue, offer amenities such as bicycle storage, extra-wide hallways and elevators, bike cleaning stations, bike “valets,” bike-share systems and shower or locker facilities.
FABB hopes Fairfax County developers, property managers, designers, and public officials will take a close look at the ULI report, Active Transportation and Real Estate: The Next Frontier, and learn from its case studies about supporting and leveraging investments in bike lanes and trails to create real estate value and promote economic, environmental, and public health goals. County homeowners, especially those near the planned improvements for the I-66 Outside-the-Beltway Project, should also note the study’s finding that numerous studies have shown that real estate values increase with proximity to bicycle paths and walking trails.
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| Courtesy of Urban Land Institute |
Other interesting findings in the study include:
- U.S. census figures show that bicycle commuting jumped by 62 percent between 2000 and 2014.
- Economic considerations, such as the high cost of owning, operating, and insuring a car—which averaged nearly $8,700 in the United States in 2015, according to AAA—as well as environmental, social, and health factors, have caused a boom in bicycling.
- When cities invest in bicycle infrastructure residents and visitors begin to use bicycles at rates that exceed the national average.
- Active transportation infrastructure can catalyze real estate development. Trails, bike lanes, and bicycle-sharing systems can improve pedestrian and bicyclist access to employment centers, recreational destinations, and public transit facilities, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of developments along active transportation corridors.
- As bicycling and walking networks have grown, so have active transportation–oriented developments and bike-friendly businesses. The bicycle industry sold over $6 billion worth of bikes and equipment in 2014, according to the National Bicycle Dealers Association.
- More people ride bikes than play golf or ski and bicycle-friendly communities are finding that bike trails and other active transportation infrastructure encourage visitors to stay longer, spend more, and come back more often.
- In addition, bicycle infrastructure can help tourism-oriented communities maximize the benefits of tourism while minimizing burdens such as traffic congestion.
Labels: biking, real estate, trail-oriented development, trails, transit-oriented development
Friday, February 26, 2016
Motorist Survey: They say one thing, do something else
According to the Post article Why more than 1 million Americans have died in car crashes since 1990:
“When you do something dangerous time and time again without any negative consequences, it’s easy to become conditioned to repeat that same behavior,” said Jonathan Adkins, executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association. “That’s why strong laws and sustained, high-visibility enforcement are so critical.”
In the past few weeks I've been driving more than usual. Other driver's behavior seems to be getting worse. I drive the speed limit and I would guess that over 80% of other drivers are exceeding the speed limit. Many will tailgate and pass dangerously. Even when conditions are bad with water and snow and ice on roads motorists were driving faster than was safe. Almost no one stops at red lights when turning right or at STOP signs.- Almost everyone thinks drinking and driving don’t mix, but 1 out of 8 drivers admitted that they have been close to or above the legal limit in the past year.
- Almost 90 percent of people think texting or emailing while driving is dangerous, but 42 percent said they had read a text or email while driving in the past month.
- Most people said that distracted driving has become a bigger problem in the past three years, but 70 percent said they had talked on the phone while driving in the past month.
- Although speeding is a factor in about 10,000 deaths per year, close to half of those surveyed said they were guilty of it on freeways and residential streets.
- Intersection collisions cause nearly 700 deaths and 125,000 injuries, and drivers deplore people who run red lights, but 39 percent of those surveyed said that in the past month they had run a light that had just turned red, even though they could have stopped safely.
- Virtually everyone sees drowsy driving as a serious threat to their safety, but more than 30 percent said they have had trouble keeping their eyes open while driving in the past 30 days.
Maybe police have given up. I think our political leaders need to use the bully pulpit and ask motorists to begin to obey the law and drive more safely. It's better for them and safer for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Labels: AAA, motorist behavior, scofflaw motorists
Friday, September 14, 2012
TheWashCycle on the Milloy's column on DC speed cameras
You may have read the Post's Courtland Milloy's column Speed cameras: Traffic enforcement or highway robbery? The first sentence gives you a flavor of the rest of the column: "I confess, I enjoy driving fast." He thinks speed cameras "kill that feeling" of being alive, as expressed in a Mercedes commercial. Later Milloy quotes AAA's John Townsend who berates the city for promoting cycling and walking.The title of TheWashCycle response says it all: I'd rather kill the feeling of aliveness that speeding creates, than kill a mother of three. Courtland Milloy feels differently. The post corrects many of the factual errors in the column. I suggest taking the time to read the it. Here's a brief excerpt:
But unlike scofflaw cyclists, who break the law sometimes for safety or need, and sometimes out of expediency, drivers - it appears - break the law for the sheer joy of it.
I enjoy driving fast. Not reckless driving, just cruising at speeds more appropriate for road conditions than the posted speed limit sometimes permits.
OK, so you like breaking the law. How adorable.
Lately, though, some jurisdictions have ramped up efforts to kill that feeling — to actually steal the joy of driving altogether — by “getting people out of their cars,” as D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray (D) likes to say.
Why, drivers just want to enjoy the fun of breaking the law and here come the mean old cyclists who want to take that away just because they selfishly want to make it home without having their pelvises crushed. If "killing the feeling" is what it takes to avoid killing our neighbors, that seems like a fair trade to me. His claim that the "joy of driving" is being stolen is also pretty over the top. Cry me a river. What exactly is it about promoting roadway safety for vulnerable users does Milloy find objectionable?
Labels: courtland milloy, speed cameras
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Road lobby hates Region Forward 2050
See the excellent post at Greater Greater Washington entitled Plan for bikes, peds, transit as well as cars? Heresy! to read about why it is important to weigh in on the MWCOG report on the future of the region, Region Forward 2050 (also known as the Greater Washington 2050 report). The road lobby is aghast that MWCOG would have the audacity to suggest the DC regional grow smarter, with more public transit, with compact development where residents can easily walk and bike.Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance and AAA Mid-Atlantic are fighting those recommendations because it doesn't support their vision of more and wider roads covering the region. It's important that the rest of us provide comments supporting the MWCOG vision for the future.
Labels: AAA, greater washington 2050, northern virginia transportation alliance
Monday, July 20, 2015
Shane Farthing on biking in DC
A brief segment of the interview is contained on the referenced page. To hear more of the interview click on "Play" at the top of the page.
See our earlier FABB post about Shane leaving WABA.
Shane discusses the need to connect existing bike infrastructure to ensure that people can safely and conveniently get around by bike, the impact of Capital Bikeshare on cycling on the region, and other topics.
Besides Shane leaving WABA, WABA's nemesis when it comes to the car vs. bike debate, Lon Anderson of Mid-Atlantic AAA, recently announced his retirement. Anderson talked to Dr Gridlock recently on his thoughts about transportation in the region. See some examples of Anderson's statements in the past.
Labels: shane farthing, waba
Saturday, March 17, 2018
March-April 2018 FABB News
FABB News
March-April 2018
A bi-monthly publication of Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling
Volunteers Needed for Springfest and Bike to Work Day
Spring is coming and FABB needs your help! Volunteers are needed to staff FABB tables at Springfest on April 21 and Bike to Work Day on May 18. Help FABB get out in the community and promote bicycling as a fun and healthy way to run errands, commute to work and get excercise. Sign up now for Springfest or Bike to Work Day!
Upcoming Repaving Meetings and Comment Deadlines
VDOT and FCDOT continues to hold district specfic public meetings on their plans for 2018 repaving and restriping projects, which include bicycle and other safety improvements. Upcoming meetings will be held in the Mason District on Tuesday, March 13; Hunter Mill District on Monday, March 19; and Springfield District on Thursday, April 5. You're encouraged to attend to speak up in support of the planned addition of new bicycling infrastructure.
There is still time to submit comments on proposed improvements in the Braddock District, comment deadline is March 16, and Lee District, comment deadline is March 23. Learn more about the 2018 Paving and Restriping Program here.
County Budget Meetings: Speak Up for Bikes
Fairfax County is seeking public input on its proposed FY2019 budget and is hosting several town hall meetings around the county. This is a great opportunity to speak out for better bicycling in the county. Consider attending a meeting near you one and speaking up or writing in support of: maintaining Safe Routes to School funding for a full-time Coordinator to work with county schools to improve bicycling and walking to school; and increasing funding for maintenance and repair of bicycle facilities.
Budget Town Hall meetings will be held at the following locations and times:
Budget Town Hall meetings will be held at the following locations and times:
- GREAT FALLS: Monday, March 12 at 7:30 PM, Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike
- PROVIDENCE: Wednesday, March 14 at 7:00 PM, Providence Community Center, 3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax
- BRADDOCK: Wednesday, March 14 at 7:30 PM, location TBD.
- MASON: Thursday, March 15 at 7:00 PM, Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale
- MOUNT VERNON: Monday, March 19 at 7:00 PM, Whitman Middle School, 2500 Parkers Lane, Alexandria
- LEE: Wednesday, March 21 at 7:00 PM, Franconia Governmental Center, 6121 Franconia Road, Alexandria
- SPRINGFIELD: Thursday, March 22 at 7:00 PM, Springfield Governmental Center, 6140 Rolling Road, Springfield
Visit the County’s webpage on the proposed budget for more information. You can also contact your local district Supervisor to express your support for expanded funding for better bicycling. Find their contact information here.
Park E-Bike Policies Under Review
Electric bikes (E-Bikes) are growing in popularity and now park groups in Fairfax County are considering how best to manage the bikes use and safety on trails. The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Authority are considering whether to allow e-bikes on shared use park trails.Shared-used trails in our parks are key transportation links so local jurisdictions are determining how best to accommodate e-bikes, while hopefully providing some consistency in the rules between jurisdictions. Currently under Virginia law, e-bikes are treated as bicycles if they have a maximum power of 1,000 watts, and a top speed of 25 mph. They’re subject to the same rules of the road as human-powered bicycles, and are allowed on sidewalks and paths where traditional bikes are allowed. However, shared use trails in our parks are subject to different rules, which currently prohibit motor vehicles on trails.
If you’re unfamiliar with e-bikes, they are bikes and trikes with an electric motor that can be used to assist the rider’s pedaling efforts. People for Bikes developed model legislation categorizing e-bikes into three classifications. The Class I pedal-assist bike has a motor that kicks on only when pedaling. Class II has a throttle and the motor engages on demand. Both of these types have a 750 watt motor that cuts out at 20 mph. There is also a Class III pedal assist that tops out at 28 mph.The FABB Board is looking into the impact of the small yet growing numbers of e-bikes. E-bikes can help make the benefits of bicycling accessible to more people and encourage more trips by bike instead of a car. At the same time, we want to make sure increased e-bike use is safe on our trails. What do you think? Take FABB's quick survey on E-Bikes.
Distracted Driving Bill Moves in Virginia General Assembly
Distracted driving legislation was the one bicycling related bill to move in the Virginia General Assembly this year. The distracted driving legislation, HB181, states that the use of a cellphone that “substantially diverts the driver’s attention from the operation of the motor vehicle is guilty of distracted driving.” The bill would make distracted driving a primary motoring offense (a driver can be stopped solely for the offense) with fines of up to $500.While HB181 passed the House, the bill was amended in the Senate to address concerns about the potential for racial profiling. The new language would require development of best practices and that law enforcement keep a record of citations. With the amended language, the bill passed the Senate, but is now in conference committee to reconcile the different versions of the legislation. Given the legislative session is over, time may have run out on the bill for this year.
Due to this increase in distracted-driving related deaths, bike advocacy groups, as well as AAA, Drive Smart Virginia, and police groups have called for revisions to Virginia’s distracted driving laws. According to The Virginian-Pilot, since 2012 as smart phones became more widely used, there have been 949 distracted driving-related fatalities in Virginia. This compares to 1,380 drivers who have been killed as a result of alcohol-related crashes during the same period.
I-66 Parallel Trail Update
While initial construction activities on the I-66 Outside the Beltway Project are set to begin, there are no new developments to report on the parallel bike trail. The contractor is working to finalize design plans for the trail as they complete engineering surveys of the corridor. Fairfax County DOT, meanwhile, is focusing on the off-corridor portions of the planned parallel trail, developing the scope of work documents and revising cost estimates. The good news is that the county will be able to begin the design process using existing funds. The bad news is that more money will be needed to complete the projects, and this funding must be identified and allocated. VDOT and FCDOT continue to assert that the entire I-66 parallel trail will be complete and open when the overall highway project is delivered.
Save the Date! Join Us at FABB's March and April Meetings
The March FABB meeting will be in Alexandria focusing on bicycling developments in the Lee and Mount Vernon Districts. Join us at 7:30 pm, Wednesday, March 21 at the Mount Vernon Government Center. We'll hear the latest updates from the Fairfax County bike program, Lee District Supervisor Jeff McKay's staff and, tentatively, Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck. This meeting is a great opportunity to get updates on projects such as the EMBARK Richmond Highway Project and raise concerns about bicycling and other multimodal transportation options in the district.
At the April meeting, FABB will provide an introduction to basic techniques and approaches for effective bicycle advocacy. If you've been contemplating becoming more involved in bicycle advocacy, this meeting can help jumpstart your participation. Join us at 7:30pm on Wednesday, April 18 at Patrick Henry Library in Vienna. Consider bringing a friend who may be interested in getting involved too!
Springfest Fairfax in April
Join FABB at Springfest 2018, Fairfax County’s annual Earth Day and Arbor Day event. This year’s FREE festival will be on April 21, from 10-4 pm at the Sully Historic Site. FABB is proud Springfest partner. Stop by FABB's table or join one of our social rides to the event. Stay tuned for more details. Interested in volunteering with FABB at Springfest? Sign up today!
Springfest 2018 will include workshops, exhibitors, and activities to help people take action to make a “Healthy Planet-Healthy People.” Activities include a petting zoo, an environmental obstacle course, and arts and crafts. You check out the bees and the trees exhibit, consult with Master Gardeners,and buy plants for your garden.
Join Us for National Bike Challenge
Are you ready for the challenge? After FABB's successful advocacy challenge last year as part of the National Bike Challenge, we're getting ready to do it again! Will you join us? Register today! Invite your friends and neighbors too! We're gearing up for the challenge which starts May 1st. The goal is get people out on their bikes to reap the benefits that come from an active, healthy, and fun means of recreation and transportation.
National Bike Summit A Success
The 2018 National Bike Summit wrapped up this week in Washington, D.C. Sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists, the Summit featured speakers, workshops and panel discussions on a variety of bicycle education and advocacy efforts around the country. FABB was represented by President Jeff Anderson, Vice President Sonya Breehey, and Reston advocate Mario Martin-Alciati.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao opened the summit on Monday highlighting the administration's efforts to address bicycle safety, announcing the Federal Highway Administration's release of guidelines for Measureing Multi-Modal Network Connectivity, and touched on the Trump administration's infrastructure plan. Over the two days, there were workshops on developing e-bike policies, working with law enforcement, autonomous vehicles, bicycle friendly driver training, and many other topics. On Wednesday, FABB joined Bike Arlington, the Virginia Bicycling Federation and other advocates from around the state meeting with legislators on Capital Hill to advoacte for better bicycling in Virginia.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao opened the summit on Monday highlighting the administration's efforts to address bicycle safety, announcing the Federal Highway Administration's release of guidelines for Measureing Multi-Modal Network Connectivity, and touched on the Trump administration's infrastructure plan. Over the two days, there were workshops on developing e-bike policies, working with law enforcement, autonomous vehicles, bicycle friendly driver training, and many other topics. On Wednesday, FABB joined Bike Arlington, the Virginia Bicycling Federation and other advocates from around the state meeting with legislators on Capital Hill to advoacte for better bicycling in Virginia.
2018 FABB Planning, Volunteers Needed
FABB held two planning meetings in February to develop a 2018 work plan. The first meeting was among the Board members and the second involved a larger group of other key volunteers. In the first meeting, the board reviewed the organization’s overall objectives over the years and agreed to condense these into five priority areas. In the second meeting, the broader group of FABB volunteers broke into groups to develop goals, activities, and timelines for 2018 under each of the priority areas. The five priority areas are:- Advocacy for Better Bicycle Infrastructure and Multimodal Transportation
- Bike Ridership and Education
- Alliances with Regional, Government, and Private Sector Partners
- Inclusive Outreach to All Fairfax County Communities
- Legal Rights for Cyclists
A board member was assigned to lead each priority area and will work with a broader team of volunteers to meet the objectives for each priority area. But, we need more help! If you would like to learn more about any of these priority areas or contribute to them in any way, please contact info@fabb-bikes.org.
If you don't already, please Like us on Facebook and follow our Twitter feed. If you have news about bicycling in Fairfax to share with our readers, please submit brief articles to news@fabb-bikes.org.
Labels: bike to work day, budget, e-bikes, fabb newsletter, i-66, national bike summit, repaving, springfest
