A lack of infrastructure to support walkers and bicyclers is one of the causes of New York's rising level of obesity. According to a poll, more than half of Americans would like to bike more, walk more and drive less, but the current state of infrastructure in most cities makes that nearly impossible.
In light of these facts, Buffalo has created the Buffalo Complete Streets Policy. The City is responsible for funding, operating and maintaining the majority of the streets in Buffalo. This complete streets policy will ensure the highest quality along with consistent implementation bicycle and pedestrian transportation systems.
The City will support the development of bikeways, pedestrian walkways and shared use paths. Bicycle parking and safe crossings connecting residences, businesses and public places will also be created. The City plans to promote biking and walking for health, helping the environment, transportation and recreation. City offices and public buildings will also supply bike parking, lockers and showers to further accommodate cyclists and promote a healthy lifestyle to all citizens.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Green Options Buffalo Helps Secure Recycled Bike Racks for City
Buffalo, NY stepped up to install a series of bike racks to make it more convenient for citizens to cycle around the community. Green Options Buffalo in conjunction with the City of Buffalo secured $100,000 for the Commercial District Bicycle Parking Program.
Green Options Buffalo has masterminded the installation as part of a mission for a healthy, environmentally sustainable, community-friendly transportation system. Not only are the racks promoting environmental sustainability and healthy living, but the racks themselves are made out of partially recycled materials. The racks themselves are forged out of steel and have been designed to fit on the poles of former parking meters. Each rack can secure two bicycles.
Business and property owners are able to fill out an online form and get the bike racks installed free of charge.
Green Options Buffalo has masterminded the installation as part of a mission for a healthy, environmentally sustainable, community-friendly transportation system. Not only are the racks promoting environmental sustainability and healthy living, but the racks themselves are made out of partially recycled materials. The racks themselves are forged out of steel and have been designed to fit on the poles of former parking meters. Each rack can secure two bicycles.
Business and property owners are able to fill out an online form and get the bike racks installed free of charge.
Dozens of beautiful bike racks have been installed around the city.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Buffalo school tries to ban bicycles
A Buffalo school recently began enforcing a policy that bans bicycles after a bike that was locked to the school fence was stolen. According to school policy bikes cannot be locked to the gates or anywhere else on school property or else they will be taken to City Hall. However, the school did not have adequate bicycle parking available to students and staff who chose to ride their bikes to school.
In October 2008 the city was awarded $550,000 for a Safe Routes to School Grant, which focuses on improving traffic safety, increasing physical activity, promoting healthy lifestyles and protecting the environment in Buffalo’s Public Schools. Infrastructure is supposed to be created around schools that promote walking and biking. According to the Buffalo School District’s transportation policy bikes cannot be stored on school property; however, according to the Safe Routes to School Grant, biking and walking should be encouraged.
According to Senator Antoine Thompson, it is important that school communities are provided with curbs and sidewalks to keep children safe and promote exercise through walking and biking. With the added funding, it gives Buffalo the opportunity to increase safety awareness among both students and parents. This program will lift some of the concerns that parents have of their child’s trip to and from school.
In October 2008 the city was awarded $550,000 for a Safe Routes to School Grant, which focuses on improving traffic safety, increasing physical activity, promoting healthy lifestyles and protecting the environment in Buffalo’s Public Schools. Infrastructure is supposed to be created around schools that promote walking and biking. According to the Buffalo School District’s transportation policy bikes cannot be stored on school property; however, according to the Safe Routes to School Grant, biking and walking should be encouraged.
According to Senator Antoine Thompson, it is important that school communities are provided with curbs and sidewalks to keep children safe and promote exercise through walking and biking. With the added funding, it gives Buffalo the opportunity to increase safety awareness among both students and parents. This program will lift some of the concerns that parents have of their child’s trip to and from school.
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