BFC Steve: City Superlatives

Yesterday, I ranked the Top 10 Bike Facilities for the first 14 cities I’ve traveled to so far. Today, here are some city superlatives for those same dozen or so communities. As I said, infrastructure is important, but ideas, too can become a material force. Check out these city superlatives that might ultimately be a bigger factor in long term success in becoming a Bicycle Friendly America!

NO CLOSED DOORS AWARD 
For spontaneously bringing in video equipment and videographer to record our debriefing session to be aired on cable television!
Phoenix, AZ

VINCENT VAN GOGH AWARD
For most spectacular use of public art to promote bicycling
Tempe, AZ

RIDE WITH THE MAYOR AWARD
For having a Mayor who actually does lead regular rides and joined us for our bike friendly tour
Mayor Rusty Bailey, Riverside, CA

THE MEDIUM IS NOT THE MESSAGE AWARD
For creative use of a billboard promoting bicycling along limited access highway
Tempe Bike Action Group

BEST ARTISTIC STRUCTURE 
“The Bike Church” 
Tucson, AZ, which is also home to the Rattlesnake Bridge that actually makes a rattling noise as you exit!

WHERE ARE THE WOMEN? AWARD
For being a city where women are clearly taking the lead on improving conditions for cycling
Santa Monica, CA

BEST MIX AWARD
For having the perfect representation of advocates, bike dealers, city staff, regional staff, and elected officials on our tour of facilities and debriefing session
San Diego, CA

(And even before the debriefing session, a great mix of people on the tour of facilities, breaking here for lunch).

SERIOUS ABOUT BICYCLING AWARD 
For investing in the most well-designed underpasses and overpasses in Arizona to make cycling as enjoyable and convenient as possible
Scottsdale, AZ

OFFICER (bike) FRIENDLY AWARD 
For Sgt. Troy Gielish, bike commuter, racer, IMPBA leader and League Cycling Instructor who is committed to safer conditions for all road users through education and enforcement
Irvine, CA  

BIKE JERSEY AWARD
For having the coolest bike gear as prizes and incentives
Orange County, CA

BEST BRANDING AWARD
For declaring to be the “Most Bicycle Friendly City in America” – and then setting out to make it true!
Long Beach, CA

Learn about this great work through my updates on the blog, and if you want to get a daily dose of what I’m up to, follow me on twitter @bfc_steve.