GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — According to a press release from the city of Grand Rapids the League of American Bicyclists announced the latest round of Bicycle Friendly Community awards and the City of Grand Rapids has been named a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community.
“The City of Grand Rapids is playing a critical part in creating a truly Bicycle Friendly America,” said Andy Clarke, President of the League of American Bicyclists. “We know Grand Rapids’ investment in bicycling will be returned many times over in the economic, health, and environmental benefits that contribute to a thriving community.”
According to Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell, “Grand Rapids is pleased that our 2009 Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community award has been renewed for four more years. We are making investments in cycling infrastructure and education that will help all of our neighborhoods thrive and become even more desirable places to invest and raise a family. We are committed to an even more bicycle-friendly community and achieving the Silver designation.”
The Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition submitted the Bicycle Friendly Community application in partnership with the City of Grand Rapids. Coalition Executive Director Thomas Tilma, AICP, said “the City of Grand Rapids has made significant progress in the past four years. Major accomplishments include the City Commission’s progressive Complete Streets resolution, the rapid implementation of over 35 miles of on-street bike lanes, the substantial increase in downtown bike parking, and the creative development of mountain biking facilities at Grand Rapids Bike Park, Richmond Park, and Ken-O-Sha Park.”
The Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community award recognizes the City of Grand Rapids’ commitment to improving conditions for bicycling through investment in bicycling promotion, education programs, infrastructure and pro-bicycling policies.
The Bicycle Friendly Community, Bicycle Friendly State, Bicycle Friendly Business and Bicycle Friendly University programs are generously supported by program partner Trek Bicycle. To learn more about building a Bicycle Friendly America, visit http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bicyclefriendlyamerica/
