You might have missed it–I did–but Knoxville recently attained Honorable Mention status on the League of American Bicyclists list of Bicycle Friendly Communities.
What merited this recognition? Miles of bike lanes and wide-shouldered roads being constructed in West Knoxville? Sadly, not.
According to a press statement:
The honorable mention recognition marks Knoxville’s growing commitment to improving conditions for bicycling. The Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization’s Regional Bicycle Program works with local governments and citizen groups to improve bicycling conditions and promote bicycling as a transportation option. The recent expansion of bike racks in the city, bicycle safety education in the elementary schools, and successful bike-to-work programs are significant factors in earning the distinction for Knoxville.
“The recent improvement for cyclists took Knoxville to the cusp of receiving an award,” said Andy Clarke, executive director of the League. “We applaud how far Knoxville has come in a short amount of time, and we encourage them to continue strengthening their bicycling program.”
League staff and reviewers consider several factors before granting a community Bicycle Friendly Community status, including:
* The physical environment for bicycling — on-street facilities, trails,
parking etc.
* Education programs to promote a “share the road” ethic among bicyclists and drivers
* Promotional initiatives to persuade people to ride or ride more often
* Enforcement of traffic laws for both motorists and bicyclists
* Future plans and evaluation techniques to improve conditions further
The League’s Bicycle Friendly Community program has become a catalyst for positive change in communities across the country. “We encourage Knoxville to continue its steady work to improve conditions for bicycling-they were very close to bronze this time, and we feel confident they can achieve that designation, or better, with more work in the coming years,” Clarke said.
Well, that’s something. From what I’ve seen, the efforts have been more promotional in nature than any changes in physical infrastructure. But I suppose Rome wasn’t built in a day, either. Perhaps someday K-Town may indeed attain that coveted Bronze award.