Bicycle Boulevards create a quiet, safe space for cyclists of all stripes to get from point A to point B to point C and so on without having to deal with gobs of traffic. The BTA is working to create a network of these low-traffic alternatives for cyclists in N/NE Portland. Over the summer we conducted a series of monthly rides to introduce folks to the potential bike boulevards in their neighborhoods and hear input from the community on the proposed routes and traffic calming treatments.

Forty people attended at least 1 of the 4 rides this summer, and over the course of the summer we ended up riding all of the 14 streets that we think have the most potential to become bicycle boulevards. In addition to monthly rides, we have also been visiting with the neighborhood associations throughout N/NE Portland. People are very supportive of bicycle boulevards in general, and the specific routes that we were touring. Two major concerns that we heard repeatedly were the need for neighborhood traffic calming, and for boulevards to include safe crossings at busy intersections. Contact Emily to get a copy of the potential boulevards map.

Filming of the bicycle boulevard movie is coming along nicely and should be done by the end of October. The most exciting adventure so far was riding a 4-person tandem (Quadem?) on a potential bike boulevard in NE Portland. Check out a short clip at Crank My Chain, search for “4-seat tandem bike, landshark and attack banana!” Yes, it is as kooky as it sounds.

Finally, if you haven’t heard already, Commissioner Sam Adams is hosting a series of public meetings to discuss his Safe, Sound and Green Streets campaign. The campaign involves several city and county specific fees that if approved, would create a chunk of money to be used on transportation maintenance and safety projects. Of particular interest to all you bikey-folks is the potential for $51 million in safety improvements, including over 100 miles of new bicycle boulevards throughout the city. To find out more about this campaign, check the website, or attend one of Commissioner Adams’ Townhall meetings during the month of October, schedule available on the website.

You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.