LVBC -

Bicycling included in the Senate transportation bill– Now it is time for grassroots lobbying

For the first time, bicycling as a mode of transportation is included in a transportation funding bill, SB 1, which passed the Senate with bi partisan support.  Also, Penn DOT ‘s leaders have  finally agreed with us that there needs to be a productive bicycle pedestrian program in  Central Office.  We provided recommendations for this office and position/s.    The Keystone Transportation Funding Coalition is  composed of many interests that have been making the case for a comprehensive transportation system which includes bicycling and walking.  Meeting with legislators, their staff, Penn DOT officials and fellow members of the Coalition has required many hours of work.  The American Heart Association and Mission Readiness  are our allies as they support active transportation for health and fitness.    In the photograph are Hans van Naerssen; PA Walks and Bikes; Alex Doty, Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia; Ross Willard, Recycle Bikes; Steve Doster, Mission Readiness; and LVBC’s Pat and Ed Krebs.  We will continue to work at the Capitol but grassroots lobbying is what will bring success.  Please  contact your PA House member and ask him/her to support SB 1.  Explain why bicycling is important for transportation and what needs to be done to make it safer, better and more convenient.  There is very little time left before the summer recess.  It is up to you and hundreds of other Pennsylvania  bicyclists to let House members know that SB 1 should be passed and funding for bicycling not be removed.    If you don’t want to make the phone call or write your personal email, use Pa Walks and Bikes form letter at the following link  http://org2.salsalabs.com/o/5918/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=14407.

2013 Ride of Silence

 Photo by Jeremy Long, Lebanon Daily News

Many members as well as non members participated in the Ride of Silence that travelled on  SR 422.  The Cleona Police assisted our large group in accessing the highway.  Jim Scott of the Quittapahilla Highlanders played Amazing Grace on the bagpipes  in Annville while we passed by.  Erik Gardner led the ride with Ron Birch and Ray Weaver’s  assisting. Rich Barley conducted the remembrance.  Joe Mesics wore Harry Fenton’s sign so that he was there symbolically. Ruth posted four foot safe passing signs on the route.  Having fathers and sons on the Ride was a first.  Lebanon Daily News reported the event.  Everyone showed how much we care about remembering bicyclists who have been killed or injured and that we must do all that we can to have motorists and bicyclists share the roads with respect for each other.