Call to Action! Stop Budget Cuts for Bikes and Pedestrian Projects

[Boyd Walker]

I think it is also necessary to make an Economic Argument for why we need to have continued funding for bike paths and programs.  I was struck by the one line in an article in the New York Times on Sunday (http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/10/world/europe/10bike.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=Bike%20sharing&st=cse&oref=slogin)  that for the cost of one bus, a city could start a bike sharing program.  Perhaps they won't need that bus if enough people ride bikes.  Perhaps they won't need a new road.  Perhaps people will be healthier and need less medical care, adults and children will be less obese, etc.  Parking won't be such a problem, etc.  I have saved money personally by not having a car and using my bicycle, and I am sure there are ways that the city might see some cost savings to.  When it comes to the budget, I think in the end it will not just be how many people are advocating for it but whether it makes economic sense.
 
Boyd Walker



Date: Tue, 11 Nov 2008 07:00:10 -0500From: matt at seatryst.comSubject: Call to Action! Stop Budget Cuts for Bikes and Pedestrian ProjectsTo: bsc at bicycle.alexandria.va.usHi everyone,   I just wanted to give everyone a heads up.  The City of Alexandria is looking for ways to cut back in the Capital Improvement Plan.  We need to let them know that capital improvements for bikes and pedestrians are important and should not be cut back.  It is really easy to give this feedback.  Just go to:   http://alexandriava.gov/budget/info/default.aspx?id=17142   and click on Submit Comments.   It will take you about 5 minutes to help protect and expand projects for bikes and pedestrians!     Here is what I wrote:   I just wanted to make sure that Capital funding for Bicycle and Pedestrian improvements continues at the current or higher levels.     For years we have neglected the Bike and Pedestrian infrastructure and funded transportation projects for cars.  The Bike and Pedestrian projects need our support in order to promote alternatives to individuals in automobiles.  Our kids need healthy safe routes to school and our citizens need more safe alternatives to cars.   I would also point out that Alexandria has been very good at getting matching funding from the state and federal governments for Bike and Pedestrian options.  The city of Alexandria gets about $8 in matching funds for every dollar spent.   We really need to think long term here.  For years our society has subidized automobiles over other transportation options.  Now is NOT the time to cut back on the Bike and Pedestrian options.   Thank you for listening,   Matt Gillman 
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