Monday, August 31, 2009

CaZBike on the radio


On August 13, City of Phoenix Traffic Engineer Kerry Wilcoxon and Coalition Board Member Gene Holmerud were interviewed by Nick Richert of KillRadio.org. Kill Radio is associated with KPFK-FM Los Angeles which is operated by Pacifica Foundation, an independent, listener-supported (alternative) organization.

Kill Radio has a number of cycling oriented programs, specifically at 10AM, for two hours on every Saturday is regular program “Bike Talk”. Kerry & Gene's interview was broadcast on August 15 as part of that show.

Nick and his associates had heard comments questioning the bicycle friendliness of Phoenix, so he decided to find out. Kerry is the City Traffic Engineer most responsible for land and intersection design, and is himself a cycling commuter. Gene is a League Cycling Instructor and concentrates his efforts on Bike Ed and Rail/Cycle issues.

The program begins with introductions and then Nick asks “How is Phoenix rated?” Although Phoenix does not have a LAB rating as do other nearby cities, Kerry outlined the efforts of the city and Gene discussed our education efforts.

City efforts:
  • We have a grid system where section streets (mile apart) and collector streets (in-between) either have bike lanes or lanes are planned
  • City advocacy was lost during the recent budget adjustments cut the Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator position. To be restored when economics allow.
  • Council districts do vary as some Council members are more supportive.
  • Light Rail, although a multi-city endeavor, is very supportive of cyclists.
  • Looking to integrate Bus routes and Bike Paths into Google mapping.
  • Recent “traffic calming” street re-design has improved bicycle use.
  • Major difficulty is that Phoenix “grew up” in the automobile-is-king era, now we're trying to retro-fit.
  • Model cities are Portland and others in Northwest part of US, the Tempe and Scottsdale.
  • Wants to thank the cycling community for their strong input over the years.
Bike Ed:
  • Making it safer to use the streets by learning skills, and following the laws, wearing bright clothes and driving consistently.

LISTEN TO THE SHOW via KPFK ARCHIVES (look for Bike Talk, 8/15/2009)
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Saturday, August 22, 2009

CAzBike Annual Membership Meeting: Sept 21

Date: Monday, September 21st

Location:

The loft at the Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)

530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282. 480.921.9431

Events:

6:30 – 7:00

Social Time - music, soft drinks and appetizers

7:00 – 8:00

Membership meeting agenda: vote on Board of Directors and Award Ceremony

8:00 – Closing

Social time for all

Action Requested: Put it on your calendars now!

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Be a part of Bike Town

Bicycling Magazine has once again named the Phoenix Metro area as a BikeTown USA. This means that there are 30 new Jamis Bicycles available to people who enter the contest. Important details:

  • Entries are due by September 16th.
  • Enter online at www.bicycling.com/biketown
  • Winners will receive their new bikes at a ceremony September 26th at the Tempe Transportation Center College Avenue & Veteran's Way in Tempe. A free bicycle safety rodeo will also be held there.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

PHX police seek driver of Silver BMW

Cyclist killed in north Phoenix this weekend by a hit-and-run driver. If you have ANY info contact numbers are at the bottom of the article from azcentral.com.

UPDATE: police say they have apprehened the man they believe to be responsible for the killing -- Police say an anonymous tip lead to the apprehension and arrest of 23 y.o. Timothy Kissida after he traded (via the "Cash for Clunkers" program) a light blue 1992 BMW 325i w/damage consistent with hit-and-run. He was booked into the Maricopa County jail and charged with leaving the scene of a fatal collision and tampering with evidence. (KPHO story on arrest)

Friday, August 7, 2009

PAT "Pedals and Pumps" Gala: Sept 26

Save The Date !! Saturday September 26, 6 p.m
Crossroads Center at Prescott College

First Annual Pedals & Pumps Gala!
Join us in celebrating individuals and businesses/organizations who have demonstrated a commitment to a higher quality of life by supporting a bicycle and pedestrian friendly community - while also enjoying a three-course meal, live entertainment, open bar and the 'funnest fundraiser' Prescott has seen ! See prescottbikeped.org for more info.