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Welcome to the website of the New York Bicycling Coalition, the premier resource for bicycling information in New York State.
This site offers access to information on a number of programs including NYBC’s current efforts to promote Share the Road material, our annual Events Calendar and links to cycling clubs and other bicycling related sites. Check our News page often to stay informed on current issues concerning bicycling & pedestrian advocates in NYS.
What has NYBC Done for Me Lately?
We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished in 2008. Take a moment to review some of the highlights, then join or renew TODAY. Keep in mind: more members means more clout!
December 2008 E-News now published
and available online.
State Energy Planning Board Meeting on Climate Change 12/11/08; NYBC Urges Bicycles to be Included as Part of the Solution
The NY State Energy Planning Board met on December 11th, 2008 in Albany to discuss state policies regarding infrastructure investments, renewable energy development issues, climate change, and long-term planning for the State. While NYBC is thankful the State remembered and invited those representing the interests of bicyclists and pedestrians (which include access to mass transit, carpooling options and ability to safely utilize non-motorized transit), and hope they will continue to do so in the future, the proceedings were a bit underwhelming.
Though staff at the highest levels from the state agencies and the Governor’s office were in attendance, somewhat simplistic and dry reports about alternative energy sources and a model concept for predicting energy costs and availability drew few questions from the Board or the audience. Perhaps after NYSERDA’s staff efforts are advanced, a bit more focused program proposals will be evaluated by the Board.
But not all aspects of attending the meeting were wasted. A very committed ending statement was made by Judy Enck, Deputy Secretary for the Environment–though specific action was directed to the Board. NYBC was able to follow up with Deputy Secretary Enck and NYSDOT representative Bob Zerillo, articulating our position that they should advance a pro-active policy of supporting safer travel for bicyclists and pedestrians to substitute for short automobile trips. Our concern for safer road shoulders and the danger inappropriate placement of “rumble strips” could present for bicyclists was used as the example of what they could easily deliver on selected roads. Affirmative responses and positive conversations with DOT, DEC and DOS staff will be followed up on by NYBC staff and representatives during the 2009 Legislative Session as we continue to advocate the state to adopt a “Complete Streets” policy and continued funding programs that educate and protect the safety of all vulnerable roadway users.
NYBC applauds Governor David A. Paterson’s efforts to combat climate change and recognition that “Global warming is the most pressing environmental issue of our time.” We urge Gov. Paterson to include bicycling in Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiatives and bicycle and pedestrian access when considering infrastructure planning and design, for the health and safety of all New Yorkers.
Dig Out Those Maps & Cue Sheets: ILOVENYBIKING.COM Needs Your Input
Following up on our announcement earlier this year regarding NYBC’s partnership with Explore NY to develop a new website dedicated to improving and enhancing bicycle-based touring opportunities in New York State, www.iloveNYbiking.com is scheduled to go live early in 2009.
In addition to information about safe cycling and cyclo-tourism options throughout NY State, content will include links to existing rides, cue sheets, maps and other useful route planning tools. A user-friendly template will allow the visitor to sort using multiple criteria, including rides by region/tourist destination; length; difficulty; family-friendly options; and those that include unique natural, cultural, historic and gastronomic (yes, good food is key to great cycling!) features. The site will be regularly updated as contributors come forward from adventuresome individuals on and off road bike clubs around the state.
Those of us who regularly ride the roads in New York already know that we have a first class road system that provides a plethora of safe riding - up and down, long and short, along the water, up big mountains and all points between—and this says nothing about the extensive network of off-road trails in an equal variety of settings, remote to urban.
In order for iloveNYbiking.com to tell this story we need high-quality CONTENT—and that’s where you come in. We know some clubs and cycling aficionados have already posted their favorite rides, including cue sheets and GPS information, on their own websites; why not increase your visibility and market your events/fundraisers to a wider audience?
NYBC is looking for one or two top rides from each bicycling club that showcase your area, inc. cue sheets and maps, to be featured on iloveNYbiking.com. Striking digital images that celebrate the legendary beauty and amazing breadth of cycling potential one can experience in are welcomed/encouraged. Share your rides, maps and photos by emailing nybc@nybc.net; call us at 518.436.0889 for more information.
In order for this site to work—and by “work” we mean provide sufficient information and inspiration to ensure visitors from around the state, U.S. and the globe who enjoy riding and spending money in our many communities, however big or small—iloveNYbiking.com needs contributions from cyclists like YOU.
