Progress in the Santa Cruz Valley

The Santa Cruz Valley Bicycle Advocate Committee (SCVBAC) has had another successful year. This year's Highlights and Objectives for next year are shown below. We appreciate the continued support and encouragement of Pima County, Sahuarita, ADOT, and the Green Valley Council to make all this happen. For updates to our "Master Plan" and "Projects Completed and Underway" since 2004, pls refer to our website, www.scvbac.org.
Thanks for continuing to make our region a real paradise to live and bike.
-Bill Adamson, Co-Chair SCVBAC

Read more »

Cottonwood Gets Sharrows

Cottonwood, AZ – December 16th, 2011, 12:00 – Bike shop owner Aaron Ruda was the first cyclist to use the sharrows painted on 12th Street in Cottonwood on Friday. The Public Works crew that had just painted the new roadway markings and can be seen driving away.  Shared-use lane markings, or "sharrows", are used on roadways which are too narrow for bike lanes. They help remind motorists to share the road with bicycles, and indicate to cyclists the lawful direction of travel. Sharrows were adopted into the Federal Highway Administration's Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) December 16th, 2009 – two years ago. The new shared-use lane markings in Cottonwood are the first to be installed in the Verde Valley. More info on sharrows can be found here.

photo/text Randy Victory

Meet Mary Kaye Black

Mary Kaye is the Coalition's Eastern Arizona Representative, and currently serves on the Board of Directors. 
I currently live in Gilbert, but I grew up in Graham County. Since I spend a lot of time in Eastern Arizona, I cover that area of the state for the Coalition.
I started cycling a few years ago when I had to use a bike as my means of getting back and forth to school after wrecking my truck. I realized that I just loved the feeling of being able make the bike move faster or slower depending on my effort. One day as I was riding home after class at Mesa Community College, a road cyclist sailed by me with little or no effort, and I realized the cyclist that had just passed had given me a goal.
A few years later I got even more serious about cycling and started tracking my miles, and realized that one of my favorite things about cycling is that it a huge, "humbler." You can ride the same course several days in a row and not have the same experience. Some days are hot, some days you have a head-wind, and some days are cold. The days that keep me cycling and keeping my wanting to learn how to ride better the days are typical sunny Arizona days when the pedals seem to have more than just the power that I give them to turn around, and I feel like I am flying.
I got involved with The Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists when I had progressed enough on my own that I wanted to explore roads / highways outside the metro area and saw changes that needed to be mad to make cycling safer for everyone.
Arizona has some incredibly gorgeous scenary and great places where all types of cyclists, be they mountain bikers, road cyclists, those who participate in BMX, or those who are just out for a short ride on a cruiser can relax and have fun. We simply all need to work together and with our state and local governments and communities to make sure we keep cyclists in mind and make thing safer for all of us.

Ride the Vortex: Sedona Verde Valley

April 14/15, 2012

http://bikeaza.nationalmssociety.org/site/PageServer?pagename=BIKE_AZA_homepage

Meet Ed Beighe

Ed Beighe

Ed is the Coalition's Webmaster. 
Ed has been riding primarily for transportation, and to enjoy the health benefits, from his home in the Ahwatukee area of Phoenix on a daily basis for over 10 years. Ed also enjoys recreational MTB riding on the many trails of nearby South Mountain Park, the "largest urban park in the United States".
A twenty-year computer industry veteran, Ed handles the Coalition's website and technology needs, and also writes a personal blog at azbikelaw.org, covering transportation safety, justice, engineering and other issues, as well as monitoring legal issues of particular interest to Arizona's bicyclists.
Ed was named the Coalition's "Volunteer of the year" in 2009, and currently is serving on the Board of Directors.
.

Meet Sheila Foraker

Sheila Foraker

Sheila is the Coalition's Southern Arizona Representative. 
I love bicycles. If it has at least two wheels, I'll ride it (two wheel minimum, since I haven't figured out unicycles). Knobby, skinny, 20" - 29," fixed, single or geared, its all good. I love to race, but I'm cool with taking it easy on the bike path.
My first bike was a blue and white girl's 24" Murray Missile. When my friends were getting bikes with banana seats I wanted one, too. My parents said there was nothing wrong with my bike. Sorry mom and dad-wrong answer! I bought a can of gray spray paint, a banana seat and high rise handle bars. Off with the fenders and chain guard and on with paint, seat and new bars. Soon I was crashing with the best of them and loving every minute.
Many bikes have taken me many miles since that Murray Missile, but I've never forgotten the freedom it offered. As a League of American Bicyclst's Certified Instructor, I work to revive that feeling in people I teach. Whether working with kids or adults, road bikes or mountain bikes, its all the same. Getting people on bikes is always a good thing.

Traffic Skills 101: Dec 3 THIS SATURDAY

THIS SATURDAY!
This is our Nation's premiere street bicycling program taught by instructors certified by the League of American Bicyclists. Learn the basics of bicycle and helmet fit. Learn state bicycle laws. Learn how to predict and prevent crashes, and how to bail out as a last resort! Learn how to operate your bicycle in a skillful and confident manner, in any traffic -- any time!
This class is designed to be of value to new and veteran cyclists. Class begins at 9am and finishes at 5pm. Global Bikes, 835 N. Gilbert Rd. #111 Gilbert, AZ 85234
Please visit www.meetup.com/Global-Bikes-Meetup/events/41668692/ for full information.

Meet Randy Victory

Randy Victory serves as CAzBike's Northern Arizona Representative.

Chip & Karen Davis discussing
bicycling with Randy 

Known as "Ranger Randy," Victory works at Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood. He often patrols the park on his bicycle, offering his own special brand of friendly assistance to the public. Born in San Francisco, he grew up near Dallas, Texas, not far from six-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong's childhood home. After graduating from Redwood High School in Marin County, California –the birthplace of the mountain bike, Victory began cycling in the Rocky Mountains near Denver, logging 10,000 miles a year on his bike.

Read more »

Phoenix Political Pedal Power (P4) endorses greg Stanton

During the November 1, 2011 meeting of Phoenix Political Pedal Power (P4), the responses from the Candidates for Mayor of Phoenix were evaluated. P4 sincerely appreciates the time and effort given by each candidate.

The objectives of P4 are to influence the elections and decisions of City policy makers towards the betterment of Phoenix so that our favorite mode of transportation and recreation is encouraged, education is provided on safe and effective use of a bicycle, facilities are engineered in the same way, rules of the road are enforced for all users of the roadways, and how these efforts are progressing is evaluated regularly. Some of the questions included aspects of sustainable living. Cycling and sustainability, particularly the public transit aspects, have a strong synergy. Each benefits from the other, hence this topic was included in our questions.

The members found that a few of the answers were equally in line with our objectives. At the same time each candidate's approach to the role of City Government became apparent. We found that the preponderance of answers by Mr. Stanton were substantially more in line with our objectives. Further, Mr. Stanton's track record of cycling considerations vis a vis question number six was clearly ahead in our judgement.

Therefore, Phoenix Political Pedal Power endorses Mr. Greg Stanton for Mayor of Phoenix and encourages anyone eligible to vote in this November 8 election to vote for him.

CAzbike Officers

The (new) Board of Directors elected the following slate of officers at their first meeting which was held October 17, 2010:

• Bob Beane - President 
• Bob Jenson - Vice President 
• Kathy Mills - Vice President of Education 
• Gail Hildebrandt - Treasurer 
• Sheila Foraker - Secretary

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Results of elections for Board of Director seats at the 2011 Annual meeting held Oct 10:

Gene Holmerud, and Alison Van Uum will be stepping down as board members -- the Coalition would like to thank them for all their hard work over the years. Alison will stay on as Membership Chair, and Gene will continue to monitor Rail safety issues relating to bicyclists.

The following board members will retain their seats:

• Sterling Baer, 
• Bob Beane, 
• Sheila Foraker, 
• Bob Jenson, 
• Mike Kitchen, 
• Kathy Mills.

New board members include:

• Ed Beighe; Ed is currently the Coalition's webmaster.
• Mary Kaye Black; Mary Kaye is the Coalitions Eastern Arizona Representative.
• Wayne Churchman; Wayne is also PBAA's event director for El Tour de Mesa.
• Gail Hildebrandt; Gail formerly served as Coalition president.
• Sheryl Keeme; Sheryl is the founder of Girls Gone Riding., and organization to help and encourage women to participate in bicycling.

Officers will be elected at the next board meeting.
For those of you who plan in advance: the Coalition's 2012 Annual Membership Meeting will be held Monday September 10, 2012.

Coalition Board of Directors changes

Thanks to those who came out for our 2011 Annual meeting. An election was held for board of directors positions.
Gene Holmerud, and Alison Van Uum will be stepping down as board members -- the Coalition would like to thank them for all their hard work over the years. Alison will stay on as Membership Chair.

The following board members will retain their seats:

• Sterling Baer, 
• Bob Beane, 
• Sheila Foraker, 
• Bob Jenson, 
• Mike Kitchen, 
• Kathy Mills.

New board members include:

• Ed Beighe; Ed is currently the Coalition's webmaster.
• Mary Kaye Black; Mary Kaye is the Coalitions Eastern Arizona Representative.
• Wayne Churchman; Wayne is also PBAA's event director for El Tour de Mesa.
• Gail Hildebrandt; Gail formerly served as Coalition president.
• Sheryl Keeme; Sheryl is the founder of Girls Gone Riding., and organization to help and encourage women to participate in bicycling.

Officers will be elected at the next board meeting.
For those of you who plan in advance: the Coalition's 2012 Annual Membership Meeting will be held Monday September 10, 2012.

President’s Report – 2011 Annual Meeting

CAzB President’s Report – 2011 Annual Membership Meeting

• Meeting/Committee Participation – e.g. MAG Bicycle Pedestrian Committee, Glendale Bicycle Advisory Committee
• Phoenix Bicycle Summit participation
• Cover Article for League of American Bicyclists Mar/Apr Magazine – Red Rock Road Extreme Road Makeover (Sedona/VOC Hwy 179 Project)
• Executive Director Hired 
• Clear Channel radio interviews – safe cycling, 3-foot safe passing distance, etc. 
•  Meeting with Verde Valley advocates and Yavapai County transportation staff to improve plans for paved shoulders on Cornville Road 
• LAB “Bicycle Friendly State” evaluation LAB “Bicycle Friendly Community” evaluations – Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix 
• Alliance for Biking & Walking Workshop – Tucson (participated and connected with Tucson advocates, ADOT representatives, Tucson Transportation staff and public officials) 
• ADOT Bicycle Safety Action Plan (input) and Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Update Committee (participation and input) - ongoing 
• Submitting programs to MAG for funding: (1) Law Enforcement Officer Training, (2) Adult/Teen “Ready to Ride” program – in progress 
• Active Lifestyle Vehicle competition/fund-raising event (October 22) 

Robert A. Beane  President
Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists

CA 3-foot passing bill vetoed

The Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists supports the passage of California's Senate Bill 910

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Two ADOT Planning Projects

...that Arizona Bicyclists Should Follow

By Bob Beane, President, Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists

Until about two years ago, when I became president of the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists, the portions of ADOT activity that affected bicyclists were a mystery to me. Well, at times, they are still a mystery. But, I can honestly say that the CAzB has been invited to the table to provide input in several meaningful efforts in the last few years. And, that participation has lifted the curtain on some aspects of how things happen in our state. What I have found is that, if we stay engaged and active, we can make a difference.

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Eric Post Law Named Bicyclist Friendly Business

Eric Post serves the Coalition's Legal Advisor:

The League of American Bicyclists announced the Law Office of Eric Post is a Silver Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB), in a diverse and groundbreaking number of 111 new BFBs across the United States. The variety in the type and size of businesses applying for the BFB award shows the many different ways to create a Bicycle Friendly Business. The Law Office of Eric Post has worked hard to increase bicycle friendliness in the workplace... read more from Tucson Endurance Sports | Examiner.com

BFC: Scottsdale gets gold; Tempe renews silver; Phx gets honorable mention

League Announces Fall 2011 Bicycle Friendly Communities

Scottsdale was awarded Gold level, up from Silver. Tempe renewed their Silver level. And Phoenix for the first time received Honorable Mention.

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CAzBike Membership ANNUAL Meeting: Monday October 10

Notices: Our regular September meeting has been cancelled; and our regular October meeting will be held one week earlier than usual.

Our next scheduled meeting will be our ANNUAL meeting:
Monday October 10, 2011. 6:00PM. Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map) 530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

Annual elections for board seats will be held.

Sedona Metric Centuries: Oct 15 and 16

Sedona Metric Centuries: Oct 15 & 16, 2011 TWO DAYS – FOUR ROUTES. All rides will stage from the Big Park Community School... visit www.sedonacentury.com for full info and registration.

Peoria 107th Ave Road Diet in jeopardy

107th Ave, Peoria, AZ road diet

Cyclists, please check out this section of 107th Ave in the city of Peoria and register feedback.

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In July 2011, the City of Peoria implemented a road diet on 107th Avenue from Northern Ave to Olive Ave, reducing the number of travel lanes from two in each direction plus a center lane to one in each direction with a center lane, bike lanes, and a buffer lane between the bike lane and through lane that is not to be used by vehicles.
The City has received a great deal of negative feedback from a group of citizen who want the street back to the old configuration. There is no justification for the extra lanes - it is purely driver preference because they want to have the ability to pass slow moving vehicles (those travelling at the posted speed limit). Unfortunately, the only voice the City is hearing is people opposing the change, as the people who like the change would have no reason to speak up.
The pressure is increasing and the City might be forced to go back to the old striping configuration to the tune of $100,000 of wasted funds (while reversing the progress made by promoting the ideals of Complete Streets). We will be scheduling a public meeting in late October. When I have the date, time, and location of the meeting, would it be possible for the Coalition to get the word out to those who support the current striping configuration with the reduced number of lanes? Any support would be greatly appreciated.

Brandon Forrey, Transportation Planning Engineer
Engineering Department City of Peoria
9875 N. 85th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345
Office: 623-773-7201 Fax: 623-773-7248
E-mail: brandon.forrey@peoriaaz.gov

Adopt-a-Highway

Coalition member Mary Kaye Black has "Adopted" a mile of higway 70 between Ft. Thomas and Pima, in Graham County AZ. Mary Kaye is one of the Coalition's Eastern Arizona representatives.

Flagstaff education and directed enforcement effort

There will be a meeting to discuss Flagstaff PD's education and directed enforcement effort:

Flagstaff Police Auditorium
Law Enforcement Administrative Facility, 911 E. Sawmill Road
Sept 1, 2011
6 - 8PM

AzDailySun story.
FMPO stats from 2005-2009 bike-MV crashes.

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School is back in session: please drive carefully

Back to school safety media day: CAzB president Bob Beane was on hand along with Tempe Police Sgt. Steve Carbajal to remind motorists that school is back in session and to exercise extra care. 

For motorists:

• Please exercise care when passing bicyclists.
• Allow a safe passing distance (at least 3 feet, per AZ law).
• Exercise extra care when making right and left hand turns across traffic and bike routes/lanes. 
• Look both ways at all driveways and intersections

 For bicyclists:

• Make sure your bike is in good working order (brakes, handlebars, etc.) 
• Be visible. If riding after dusk and before dawn, make sure you have a front light and rear reflector that meets AZ legal requirements. We also suggest a rear red light in addition to the required reflector. 
• Ride predictably.
• Ride defensively (don’t assume that motorists see you).
• Ride with traffic (same direction)…it’s safer than riding opposing traffic.
• Wear a bicycle helmet. 

www.azfamily.com

---

The group Active Living Resource Center (ALRC) provides resources and tools to help you make walking and bicycling part of your community's healthy lifestyle.
There is an excellent brief guide there "Bicycle Safety: What every parent should know".

CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday Aug 15

next scheduled meeting: Monday August 15, 2011. 6:00PM.
Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)
530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

AGENDA: MemberMeetingAgenda082011.pdf

Opinion -- The Dutch Way: Bicycles and Fresh Bread

As an American who has been living here for several years, I am struck, every time I go home, by the way American cities remain manacled to the car. While Europe is dealing with congestion and greenhouse gas buildup by turning urban centers into pedestrian zones and finding innovative ways to combine driving with public transportation, many American cities are carving out more parking spaces. It’s all the more bewildering because America’s collapsing infrastructure would seem to cry out for new solutions.  ... read the rest

Tour de Paradise: Oct 15

Tour de Paradise is a fundraising bicycle ride to benefit homebound seniors, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in greater Phoenix. All proceeds benefit Duet - a non-profit 501C(3) organization helping older adults with things such as getting groceries and rides to the doctor, to health promotion activities and support groups. Duet's services are provided free-of-charge. Your donation is 100% tax deductible.... details and registration.

CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday July 18

next scheduled meeting: Monday July 18, 2011. 6:00PM.
Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)
530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

AGENDA...

Read more »

URGENT: Federal Funding for Biking Under Attack

Dedicated funding for biking and walking has been cut in the transportation proposal from the U.S. House of Representatives.
John Mica, chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, would eliminate critical Transportation Enhancements, Safe Routes to School and Recreational Trails programs — programs that Mica referred to as “not in the national interest.” ...read more at peoplepoweredmovement.org.

Freedom and Bicycling

Chris Mosley, Executive Director, Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists

I was free this morning. Free to answer to the alarm at 4:15 am, and free to go chase the youngsters. (Anyone under the age of 50 is a youngster to me!) I was free to ride with a very diverse group of men and women from the east valley, to Fountain Hills / Rio Verde up to Pinnacle Peak and back. Free to be tired at the end of 80 miles. And, free to feel happy about the effort and success of the morning. Whether you wake-up and ride for recreation, ride because it is your means of transportation, or ride for any other reason, you are free to choose. And what a great thing this is, “Freedom”! All of it!

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Critical Mass - Phoenix

As a nationally certified cycling safety instructor I was intrigued by Critical Mass's endeavor to improve cycling in the Valley, so I participated in Friday night's ride. To the consternation of leaders I stopped for red lights, but I also stood up to motorists that were trying to endanger cyclists by not following the rules of the road.

I fully support the effort Critical Mass Phoenix to bring attention to the lawlessness of some motorists relative to the legitimate use of bicycles on the roads, but not by breaking the law ourselves. How many law obeying and innocent motorists were wrongly delayed and inconvenienced and are now generally resentful of all cyclists? I believe it's the wrong message.

One reply I received was that the group was akin to a long limousine, the front of which entered the intersection on green, but the rear completed on the red. No, we are all separate drivers of our bicycles and are not joined by a steel frame. Hence we are individually under the rules of the road. Another reply was that keeping going on a red light kept the group together. I have led and been on other rides that stayed together by lawful means.

We all need to follow the rules of the road.

Gene Holmerud

Share the Road - Buses and Bicycles

"At first glance, it may not seem like a bike and a bus have very much in common, but in fact, they share a lot of things... both are usually in the same space on the roadway, the right lane. And both have slower than average speeds...", view the video presented by ChicgoBikes and the Chicago Transit Authority:

Read more »

LCI Instructor Class: Sept 9, 10, 11 in Gilbert, AZ

There will be an LCI Instructor Class held September 9, 10, and 11, 2011. This is the class to take to become a certified LCI (League Cycling Instructor), more info from the LAB.

The location will be:

Town of Gilbert, Heritage annex, 119 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ 

This location will be empty except for our class and has a door directly from the conference room to the parking lot.

Application and Candidate Expectations.

questions? contact Kathy Mills.

CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday June 20

next scheduled meeting: Monday June 20, 2011. 6:00PM.

Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)
530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

WATCH THIS SPACE

Cycle For Life registration for November open soon

Planning has begun for our next Cycle For Life bike event, organized by the Arizona Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The event has been moved to November where it will remain each year. This year, the ride will offer a 75-mile and 35-mile routes in Pinal County starting at Heritage Park in Florence, AZ on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011.

A focus group held in May helped to shape the future of this event with much potential to grow in a community where cycling is a popular activity. This year's fully-supported Cycle For Life will offer training rides to help beginner road riders prepare for a fun experience. Registration will open soon.

If you would like more information about Cycle For Life or would like to help plan this year's event, contact Sheryl Keeme at Skeeme@cff.org.

Support for Phx's Complete Streets Classification System

Mr. Shane Silsby
Deputy Street Transportation Director
City of Phoenix
200 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Dear Mr. Silsby

The Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists would like to express our support for the City of Phoenix’s application to the FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation Program to create a “Complete Streets” Classification System. I have personally participated in the MAG Bike/Pedestrian Committee efforts to promote the Complete Streets concept in Maricopa County, and believe that this step is integral to, and supportive of, the efforts currently being made to better accommodate multi-modal transportation in our community. The CAzB believes that this will complement and support the following:

• The Complete Streets concept as outlined in the MAG Complete Streets Guide.
• The Phoenix General Plan Update.
• The Central Phoenix Transportation Framework and Sustainable Land Use and Transportation integration studies.

We fully support implementation of Complete Streets and multi-modal concepts in order to create integration of land use and transportation in an effort to improve both the livability and transportation safety attributes of the City of Phoenix and the Valley as a whole.

Sincerely,

Robert Beane
President, Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists
(501 c 3 bicycling advocacy and education organization directly representing over 3,000 individual and club member bicyclists in Arizona)
Member and former officer/board member, Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club (450 member recreational bicycling club)
Phoenix resident (Ahwatukee Foothills)

Report from scvbac Ride of Silence

The Ride of Silence is over for 2011 but will be back on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - always on the third Wednesday. If you have a next year calendar put it down in ink.

In Green Valley the wind scared some people away but turned out to not be a factor affecting the ride. Ridership was down some but spirits were up. Thanks to those who made this a memorable ride!

Read more »

Phx Bicycle Initiative Subcommittee mtg is WEDNESDAY, not Thursday

Flash update -- City of Phx Bicycle Initiative Subcommittee for this month will be WEDNESDAY (tomorrow!) May 25, 2011 at 4:30pm; rather than the usual fourth Thursday. Sorry for the late notice.

The EQC (Environmental Quality Committee) meets once per month on the third Thursday at 8 a.m. in the Phoenix City Hall, 200 W. Washington, 14th Floor, Conference Room 14W (unless otherwise specified).

The Bicycle Initiative Subcommittee meets the fourth Thursday of the month, 4-6 p.m. in the Phoenix City Hall, 200 W. Washington, 1st Floor, Assembly Room D (unless otherwise specified).

Follow the link at phoenix.gov/environment/eqc/meetings/ for current agendas and updated info.

15th Ave Bikeway bridge: info meeting May 23

The City of Phoenix will be constructing a pedestrian and bicycle bridge across the Arizona Canal from the existing ACDC Bicycle Path to the 15th Avenue Bikeway in early summer 2012.
The design for this bridge is now complete and the City of Phoenix Street Transportation Department

Read more »

The Savvy Cyclist Presentation : May 17, Flagstaff

Learn about cyclists’ rights, bicycle safety, riding myths and more!
Presented by Randy Victory, a long-time cycling advocate who spent 32 years car-free and traveled to Washington, D.C. to lobby on the behalf of Arizona cyclists.
Randy is a certified LCI (League Cycling Instructor), and is CAzBike's Northern Arizona Representative.

Tucson Bicycle Attorney, Eric Post will be available via live feed to answer legal questions about cycling and cycling law. Eric serves as the Coalition's legal advisor, and is also an LCI and is licensed to practice law in Arizona and the Federal District of Arizona.

The Savvy Cyclist Presentation, Tuesday May 17, 2011. 5-6:45p FREE
Flagstaff Medical Center, McGee Auditorium, 1200 N. Beaver St.
For specific Information, contact Randy Victory at 928-301-1190 or probike@cableone.net

Flagstaff's Bike to Work Week kicks off May 15 -- see all events.

2012 Ride of Silence: Wed May 16

Hundreds of events are scheduled worldwide on May 16, 2012 in the annual Ride of Silence. (always the third Wednesday in May).
Details of other Arizona rides as they are announced (check back often) can be found at rideofsilence.org .
Currently rides are scheduled around Arizona in Green Valley, Kingman, Mesa-Gilbert, and Tucson.

This is how we roll in Arizona: Mining Country Challenge 2011

here's a video from the PMBC Mining Country Challenge 2011. Warnings: Steep grades and adult language related to same!

CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday May 16

*** watch our guest speaker LIVE via ustream.tv
*** tune in via our facebook page 
*** (click on "ustream live" if necessary)
*** facebook login is not required to view/listen.
*** you can text chat in with questions


Next meeting: Monday May 16, 2011. 6:00PM.

Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)

530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

In addition to a general working session, please join us for a special guest speaker Jim Duncan of Salt River Project will discuss

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New and renewed Arizona LAB Bicycle Friendly Communities

League Announces Spring 2011 Bicycle Friendly Communities

This year, Sedona joined the list at Bronze level. Mesa renews at Bronze, and Cottonwood received honorable mention.

Also, Wandertec, Inc. (Flagstaff) - new Bronze level business, and University of Arizona - new Silver level university

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Arizonas Red Rock Road

How Community and Bicycling Advocacy Achieved an Extreme Road Makeover…
By Bob Beane, Randy Victory and Daniel Paduchowski
Photos by Carla Riedel and Bob Beane
This article originally appeared as the cover story of the Mar/Apr 2011 issue of American Bicyclist magazine.

A certain well-known television show begins with a deserving family in need of a new home. Designers get to know the family’s needs, wishes and desires, and then a village comes together to demolish their dysfunctional house and reconstruct a home that exceeds their expectations.
Apply that concept to a roadway project, and you have some idea of what has just been achieved on one of this country’s most scenic stretches of road: Arizona Highway 179 between the City of Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek. The end product is a well-designed multi-modal corridor that has been designated an All American Road. On August 21,

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Advocacy Alert: $2.5B Funding Rescission Looms

Your state DOT may be getting ready to take away millions of dollars in bicycle and pedestrian funding.
In the latest budget deal between the Republicans and Democrats, the two parties agreed to rescind (read: take back) $2.5 billion in unspent federal transportation funds. Your state DOT has the power to decide which funds they send back. And based upon history we know what happens next.

Your state DOT may try to empty out the funds that pay for your sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, and education programs.

You can learn more and fill out a form that will send a message to Governor Brewer via the LAB's Time To Take Action page.

Our littlest riders

Checking for proper
helmet fit

Coalition of Arizona Bicyclist's Kathy Mills offered a class in bike safety to over 50 pre-school students of the Horizon Presbyterian Church, located in the Ahwatukee Foothills of Phoenix, Arizona. The early basics were stressed -- stopping at stop signs, looking both ways, and helmet fit.

Read more »

More ways to keep up with CAzBike

Receive our blog posts via email; simply fill out your email address, below, or in the right sidebar. You can unsubscribe at any time, of course. You will receive a confirmation request:

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CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday April 18

next meeting: Monday Apr 18, 2011. 6:00PM.

Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)

530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

Agenda: TBD

ABC member killed on organized ride in Florida

Sad, tragic news from ABC:
Bob King, a long-time member of ABC, was killed last Wednesday, March 30th, after being struck from behind by a fast-moving pick-up truck. Bob was on a week-long Bike Florida Spring Tour. The driver, a young man, was said to be distracted using his cell phone when his vehicle drifted into the marked shoulder where Bob had been cycling. We are all saddened and shocked by the passing of Bob! He had many friends in the club. He always seemed to be smiling!

Read more »

April is Valley Bike Month

Remember, April is Valley Bike Month; visit Valley Metro's bike month homepage.
And, Tucson-area residents -- you can win a bike by participating in the 2011 Commuter Challenge at  tucsonaz.gov going on the month of April.

Safe Routes to School Project Approvals

Coalition representative Bill Lazenby reports that on March 24 the SRTS Review Committee met and the following projects were approved. For more info about SRTS, visit saferoutesinfo.org.

Read more »

SanTan Wheelie Jam : April 23

Get ready for a new bike festival on April 23rd at Steele Indian School Park in downtown Phoenix, the SanTan Wheelie Jam. EVERYONE should be there, and bring all your friends too.
This is an all local festival, local bike groups, local beer (SanTan brewing), local food, local bands, local bike shops. TBAG is getting it going, and all beer sales proceeds will go to Phoenix groups.
Event info on facebook.
More info at T.B.A.G.

Livable Communities Coalition day at AZ Transit Assn Conference

The Livable Communities Coalition, of which CAzBike is a participant, is teaming up with the AZ Transit Association (AzTA) and ADOT for participation in their April Conference. We can attend one day for a reduced rate of $100. More info on the program for April 12 and how to register.

Velo-City2011 in Sevilla, España

See how the City of Sevilla, Spain is accomplishing an astounding increase in cycling.

ADOT 5-Year Program available online for review and comment

With limited funding and a need to identify the state’s top transportation priorities, the Arizona Department of Transportation is seeking public input on the Tentative Five-Year Transportation Facilities Construction Program, a work plan outlining highway, transit and aeronautic projects from 2012 to 2016.
Transportation is funded by ALL OF US, so let our voice be heard!

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Bike and Hike: Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers Saturday Mountain Bike Rides / Sunday Hikes

Ranger Randy Victory. Mountain
bike rides will include talks
on Maintenance, Bicycle Physics,
Turning/Braking, Climbing,
Descending, and Riding in Groups.

Beginning Saturday, March 26th and going on until Sunday, May 8th, Park Rangers at Dead Horse Ranch State Park (directions) in Cottonwood will offer guided mountain bike rides on Saturdays and ranger-led hikes on Sundays. The hikes & rides are free, however the regular entrance fees to the park will apply. Annual Passes will also be honored.
"Mountain Bike Basics" will take place every Saturday afternoon at 2:00, and go until 4:00, "or when everyone gets tired", according to Park Ranger Randy Victory. "These will be beginner trail rides on the dirt, with a little instruction on the pavement." Victory, a certified cycling instructor, will offer everything from basic riding techniques to trail etiquette.

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Swap meet a success

Thanks to all those who came out and participated in the 13th annual CAzBike Swap Meet that was held last Saturday at the Phoenix Municipal Stadium. The weather was great, a picture-perfect mid-March Arizona morning. About 100 vendors, and several hundred swappers came out to find a great deal on bikes, parts, and anything else. The Coalition sponsors the event as a service to the bicycling community;

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CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday Mar 21st

next meeting: Monday Feb 21, 2011. 6:00PM.

Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)
530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

This will be a working session to establish priorities 

CAzBike Swap Meet: March 12, 2011

The 13th Annual Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists bike swap meet is going to be held Saturday March 12, 2011, 7AM - Noon,  in the Phoenix Municipal Stadium parking lot.
The Bicycle Swap Meet will be a bargain hunter's paradise. This huge bike garage sale will have great deals on all types and sizes. The swap meet is FREE for buyers and sellers.
For more information please contact Bob or Peter (see flyer).
Link to .pdf for printing.

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Sedona Fat Tire Festival: April 23, 24

Hosted by the Verde Valley Cyclist's Coalition. There are many types of bicycling to be experienced here, one of the most beautiful places in the country.
This grassroots event is focused on Mountain Biking. Many trails are found just off the city streets. The trail system here is world class, deserving care and thoughtful development, as many long time residents and many visitors experience daily. This is an event for the community to say in celebration that Mountain Biking belongs here. You need at least three days to get an idea of what Sedona offers in riding. Meet local and visiting riders to learn about bikes, places to ride, and the many types of riding opportunities found here. Meet the local riding club and riders who are passionate about what we do here. Chat with the US Forest Service about the future of MTB riding locally.... get all the details...

State of Arizona, Communities and Businesses Recognized by LAB

The League of American Bicyclists, in the January/February 2011 issue of American Bicyclist, specifically recognized Gilbert, AZ, for implementing a transportation policy requiring bicycle lanes on ALL arterial streets. The LAB also recognized Pima County for its Diversion/education program for ticketed bicyclists (including a
reference to our very own board member, Sheila Foraker, who is the Pima County Bike Ambassador Project Manager).
In addition, the January/February issue listed Arizona as 9th in the ranking of bicycle friendly states and listed the following as our Bicycle Friendly Communities:

• Gold - Tucson, and East Pima Region
• Silver - Flagstaff, Scottsdale and Tempe
• Bronze - Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa

Listed among Bicycle Friendly Businesses were TriSports.com of Tucson and Banner Health of Mesa.

Success and Lessons Learned: the SCVBAC Story

by Bill Adamson, Co-Chair, Santa Cruz Valley Bicycle Advocate Committee

BACKGROUND
About six years ago our group of local bicyclists from the Santa Cruz Valley area concluded that cycling was becoming less pleasant and significantly less safe along our popular bicycle routes. Increased traffic congestion coupled with significant gaps in the available network of bike lanes caused us serious concern. This lack of safe routes led us to write letters to our government officials, where we received no response,

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CAzB Spring Update

by Bob Beane, President, Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists

As anyone knows who has crossed over from "simply" being a bicyclist to being a bicycling advocate, there are not enough hours in a day...The more you immerse yourself in this world, the more you find that needs to be done. Possibly, that's one of the reasons for the high rate of burnout among advocates.

Personally, I'm not there, yet... But, I can see how it can happen. So, from time-to-time I tell myself that one of the CAzB's biggest priorities should be to increase membership.

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ADOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Program

Be sure to check out the web pages of the ADOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, azbikeped.org . It contains an extensive array of information about bicycling (and walking, of course) in Arizona. Laws, tips, touring, maps, educational materials for young and old -- it's all there. Bicyclist advocates can find load of info in the Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan section including grant information, implementation plans.

Special mention should be made of the pamphlet Arizona Bicycling Street Smarts -- which explains both the laws and how to ride, under all conditions. It is in such great demand that supplies of the printed version, sometimes available at bikes shops, and libraries, etc. can be hard to find, but is always available on the website in its entirety.
In addition to AzBSS, there is additional materials, as well as educational curriculum for both childern and adults.

New video from StreetFilms

Leaders from New York, San Francisco and Portland talk about what bicycling means for their city.

Moving Beyond the Automobile: Biking

Eric Iwersen named Tempe’s 2011 Bike Hero

Eric Iwersen will be presented with the 2011 Tempe Bike Hero Award at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24 at the Tempe City Hall Council Chambers, 31 E. Fifth Street.

The Tempe Bike Hero Award recognizes individuals and organizations who aid in increasing awareness of bicycling and promote bicycling as a viable mode of transportation. The Tempe Transportation Commission received several competitive nominations and selected Eric Iwersen as the recipient on Jan. 11.

Eric Iwersen was nominated for his commitment and dedication to bicycling. His efforts include the organization of bicycle related events, advocacy for bicycle-friendly roads, membership on the Tempe Bicycle Action Group Board and securing federal grant monies for bicycle related projects at the city of Tempe.

“It's an honor to receive the Tempe Bike Hero Award” said Eric Iwersen. “Tempe has a long history of supporting bicycling by helping to create a sustainable, creative, and vibrant Tempe. I'm glad to be a part of that.”

Past Bike Hero Award winners include:
• 2010 - Bicycle Cellar
• 2009 - Sue Fassett
• 2008 - Tempe Bicycle Action Group

Best wishes

Dear Representative Giffords,

     Best wishes for a continuing and complete recovery.

Respectfully,
Your friends in the Arizona bicycling community

CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday Feb 21st

next meeting: Monday Feb 21, 2011. 6:00PM.
Location: Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)
530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

Can't make it to Tempe? ATTEND ONLINE via WebEx or Listen in by phone

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To join the online meeting
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Go to cazbike.webex.com
The meeting password (if requested) is bike

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No computer? No problem! Join by phone
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Call (408)600-3600 -- note this is a CA area-code.
Access code: 800 939 978

Please mute your microphone or phone unless speaking.

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Also, the meetings audio and video will be broadcast (and recorded) via ustream.tv:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/monday-cazbike-meeting
This is one-way only, you can listen/see but you can't speak.

Operation Lifesaver - The Rail Industry Public Safety Program

We strive for safety while cycling, but there is another area of safety that is important to the general public in general and cyclists in particular. That is safety in and around trains. I have been including a portion of the Operation Lifesaver program into each of the Traffic Skills 101 classes for a few years now. I am also a member of the Board of the AZ organization.

AZOL is conducting a presenter class on Tuesday, March 8 in downtown Phoenix. I hope you will consider enrolling. The class is from 7:30AM to 5PM at the AZ Corporation Commission offices, 220 N Central Ave. After the class, your commitment will be four presentations per year, the first of which is a proof your learning. There are a few other benefits as well. Please send me an email and I will get you connected.

Gene

Notes from the MAG Bicycle Pedestrian Committee Meeting on 2/15

• The first annual City of Phoenix Bicycle Summit meeting will take place on Saturday, March 19, from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Burton Barr Library at 1221 N. Central Avenue. Phoenix advocates and those interested in bicycling in Phoenix are invited to attend. As the City of Phoenix has lagged behind other communities in the Valley in bicycling accommodation, it is important for advocates and bicyclists to participate in this summit and come prepared with priority projects, good ideas and positive/pragmatic solutions to help move Phoenix along.
• The Maricopa County Health Department is establishing an Office of Policy, which will include a staff position involved with bicycling and walking as a part of policy development and improving health in Maricopa County. This Office will become a new point of contact for the bicycling community, especially as relates to the health benefits of bicycling and garnering support for bicycling as transportation and recreation/exercise.
• MAG has initiated a study of Sustainable Transportation and Land Use "to define a coordinated, comprehensive approach for promoting sustainable transportation and transit supportive land use patterns in the region." The stakeholders will primarily be MAG member agencies, but organizations such as the Sonoran Institute (which the CAzB is preparing to join) are expected to have input, as well.
• The MAG Bicycle/Pedestrian Committee is addressing the issue of education projects versus infrastructure projects in the current "scoring" system for CMAQ funding. Possibly, a separate portion of funds may be carved out specifically for education projects as the scoring system seems to underweight those projects during the ranking process.

Bob Beane, President
Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists

Hit and Run alert: Silver Kia w/missing mirror

Be on the lookout for a Silver Kia, probably with a missing mirror. From the video the mirror that is missing appears to be the driver's-side. The vehicle was involved in a collision with a cyclist in Central Phoenix near 29th Place and Oak Street. The collision occurred Friday (i think, the report is short on details).

News report from ABC15.

The Phoenix Police response, according to the story, seems lackluster and inappropriate. The Coalition will continue to monitor this situation and will be in touch with the department as soon as possible.

City of Sedona names first bicycle coordinator

The Verde Valley Cyclist's Coalition (VVCC) recently organized a Bicycle Advisory Board for the city of Sedona comprised of Thomas McGoldrick, Doug Copp, Chuck Budden, and Dave Singer.
Dave Singer was also named the first City of Sedona Bicycle Coordinator. The mayor, city manager, the majority of the city council, and Sedona PD have been very supportive of the effort to improve conditions for cyclists. And recently, their application for "Bicycle Friendly Community" was submitted to the League of American Bicyclists.

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In the Midst of Pulling it all Together

By Bob Beane
It might be my "advocate's optimism", or involvement in recent discussions of progress (or lack thereof), but I have recently had visions of Arizona being on the verge of pulling out of a trail network and bike route quagmire. I know that the budget climate is difficult, and that opponents of spending on virtually any public works have recently crawled out of the washes and arroyos in many communities, but I just have this feeling that bicyclists in Arizona are about to score some major victories.

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Sheila on "The Morning Blend"

Check out CAzb southern Arizona representative Sheila Foraker appearance on KGUN's "The Morning Blend"


 

Woman riding a motorized bicycle killed in crosswalk

An article in this morning's AZ Republic reports that a 52-year old woman was riding her motorized bicycle on the sidewalk and proceeded into a crosswalk where she collided with an automobile. The article cites "Authorities" as saying riding a motorized bicycle on the sidewalk is illegal. I hope that was an accurate quote from City or State law. I have been told by a motorized bicycle vendor that there is a Federal Law that puts motorized bicycles (less than 20mph and 100watts power) under the same status as human-only-powered bicycles. The searching I did on this yielded that that Federal Law is applicable to consumer protection laws and policies, not traffic laws. Can anyone elaborate?

Actual article is at http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2011/01/20/20110120Phoenix-motorized-bicyclist-Dies-abrk.html

Dan Gutierrez Gets His Wish

In early December, the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists was contacted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help fulfill the wish of a dying teenaged boy. The wish was that the boy, Dan Gutierrez, wanted to ride a bike with a group of cyclists. Arrangements were made for using the Deck (Margaret Hance) Park for the ride, and cyclists were invited to attend this special event.
Approximately 40 cyclists from several clubs came to render support for Dan. The cyclist clubs brought jerseys, and other swag for Dan to wear and enjoy, and he was thrilled. Make-A-Wish had purchased a special trike that would allow him to pedal and brake, but motive power was provided by pushing the trike, as Dan doesn't have enough strength in his legs to propel the trike.

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Rails-to-Trails delivers over 51,000 signature petition to AAA

On December 13, 2010, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy hand-delivered more than 51,000 signatures in a petition to AAA to support—not oppose—the continuation of established trail, walking and bicycling programs... read more at railstotrails.org ...

CAzBike Membership Meeting: Monday JAN 17th

Please join us for our next membership meeting;
Michael Sanders will speak on ADOT bike policy, five year plans (related to bicyclists) and Highway Safety Improvement Program fund use.

Mike is the Bicycle and Pedestrian coordinator for the State of Arizona / ADOT

next meeting: Monday Jan 17th, 2011. 6:00PM.
Location:  Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill (map)
530 W. Broadway in Tempe AZ 85282, 480.921.9431

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Here's a list of reference material from Mike: http://www.azdot.gov/Org_Charts/ADOT/ADOT_OrgChart.asp http://www.azdot.gov/mpd/systems_planning/index.asp http://www.azbikeped.org/appendix%20c/13_ImpAN>.pdf http://www.azdot.gov/Org_Charts/ITD/ITDOrgChart.asp http://www.azbikeped.org/images/MGT01-2%20Bike%20Policy.pdf http://www.azmag.gov/Documents/pdf/cms.resource/PWB-RBTF_2008_Guide-for-Development-of-Bicycle-Facilities83606.pdf, p. 17 http://tinyurl.com/59pmrr, p. 300-10 http://www.azdot.gov/Highways/Traffic/Standards/signstripe/M-22a.pdf and http://www.azdot.gov/Highways/Traffic/Standards/signstripe/M-22b.pdf http://www.azdot.gov/Highways/Traffic/standards/PGP/TM1030.pdf http://www.azdot.gov/Highways/Traffic/standards/PGP/TM1031.pdf http://www.azbikeped.org/images/2009%2011%2010%20ADOT%205-YR%20PRGM%202010-2014_LIST.pdf  http://www.azbikeped.org/images/2009%2011%2010%20ADOT%205-YR%20PRGM%202010-2014_MAP.pdf http://www.azdot.gov/highways/SWProjMgmt/enhancement_scenic/enhancement/PDF/documents_currently_funded_projects.pdf http://mpd.azdot.gov/mpd/systems_planning/bicycle_safety_study.asp (sorry we don't have this updated)  http://www.azbikeped.org/azbss.htm ...

Important City of Phx meeting tomorrow (Thursday)

Please attend an important meeting this week to show your support for an important bicycle/pedestrian overpass which is on the chopping block. A plan to build a bridge over 19th Avenue, just south of Greenway Road is in jeopardy. The City of Phoenix Street Transportation Department is scheduled to present options for the proposed 19th Avenue Bikeway/Pedestrian Bridge and Multiuse Path project at 10:00 AM Thursday January 6, 2011, to the Transportation, Sustainability, and Infrastructure (TS&I) Subcommittee for their consideration and possible action. This public hearing will be held in the Assembly Rooms in City Hall., 200 W. Washington Street. There is a potential of a change in meeting location, please check the here for additional information on this item and potential changes in location. (scroll down and click on 1/6/2011, 10:00 AM "TRANSPORTATION, INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUSTAINABILITY SUBCOMMITTEE").

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