When was the last time you thought about the politics of bicycling? It is very likely that you never have – especially if you are new to cycling. A common misperception of cyclists’ rights is that “cyclists have always received a fair shake.”

After all, this is America – Land of the free, home of the brave.

Indeed, you have to be pretty brave to ride a bicycle on some of our public roads , and those bike lanes weren’t free. The truth is that without the willingness of people to express their desire for cyclists to be included on roads, city planners and engineers might still begrudge bicycle facilities as a mere afterthought, and traffic laws might continue to ignore the existence of two-wheeled, human-powered vehicles. It is a fact in this country that the car is king, and the idea that motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians must share the road is not yet embraced by all citizens.   

However, things have improved significantly for cyclists, thanks to the growth of bicycle advocacy organizations throughout California and across the nation.

You will be happy to know that the Bay Area is home to one of the most well organized, dedicated, and effective advocacy networks in the country, and that is why cycling conditions in this region are so welcoming. These gifts did not fall out of the sky – many dedicated citizens, for the love of cycling, have spent their evenings attending meetings and hounding their council members, writing letters and making phone calls, so that all citizens might follow the network of multi-use paths across Marin County, or utilize a bike lane for a Sunday morning training ride.

Are you still wondering “what does bicycle advocacy really achieve?”

To help you understand, the following is a partial list of things that have been accomplished by your local bike advocacy organization – The Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC):

  • Helped Towns, Cities and County to acquire over $30 million for bicycle lanes, paths and racks
  • Designation of Marin as a national model for Safe Routes to Schools in 2000
  • Development and distribution of t he Marin Bicycle Map
  • Bike racks on Golden Gate Transit buses
  • Bike-to-Transit campaign
  • Marin Cycle Corps
  • Approved Bicycle/ Pedestrian Master Plans in Towns and Cities
  • Active Bike/Ped Advisory Committees in Towns and Cities
  • Share the Road campaign
  • A plan for a Rail-with-Trail from San Rafael to Cloverdale
  • A study to open the Alto Tunnel
  • Studies and designs for opening the Cal Park Hill Tunnel
  • A Bicycle Coordinator position for the County of Marin
  • Helped pass Measure A, the Marin Traffic Relief and Better Transportation Act of 2004
  • Designation of Marin as a Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program in 2005
  • Positive media coverage for bicycle transportation
  • Respect and cooperation from government agencies for a 21st century non-motorized transportation system

The Marin County Bicycle Coalition is an active member of the community of regional, state , and national groups that work to make the world a better place for cyclists. They are funded by member fees and donations, grants and contracts and are additionally supported by volunteer time – from people just like you.

Please do what you can to support your local (and state-level) advocacy group. Become a member, a volunteer, get involved, and watch your community thrive!

Marin County Bicycle Coalition:  www.marinbike.org

Other Bay Area Bicycle Organizations:

Statewide:

National: