Bicycle Friendly Communities

The Bicycle Friendly Community campaign recognizes the commitment of communities to "providing safe accommodation and facilities for bicyclists, and for their efforts to encourage bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation" (BFC).

The Action Plan for Bicycle Friendly Communities (PDF) recognizes the benefits of bicycling and outlines ten steps for improving bicycling conditions in communities. This plan was developed during the International Symposium on Bicycle Friendly Communities, held on March 4, 2004 at the World Bank Headquarters.

Before granting a community BFC status, reviewers from the League of American Bicyclists consider several factors including: the physical environment for bicycling, including on-street facilities, trails and parking; education programs to promote a "share the road" ethic; promotional initiatives to persuade people to ride more often; enforcement of traffic laws for motorists and bicyclists ; and future plans and evaluation techniques to further improve conditions.

"The League's Bicycle Friendly Community Campaign is a national grassroots effort to increase the number of trips made by bike, promote physical fitness, and help make communities more livable" (BFC).

"A Bicycle Friendly Community has streets and highways where bicyclists of all ages and levels of experience feel comfortable and safe riding on the road or trail. Facilities are well maintained, and secure, convenient parking is available" (BFC, 2003).

"Given the choice, people will and do ride their bikes. The rewards for residents are huge: greater opportunities to lead active lifestyles; improved air quality, and increased travel choices" (Andy Clarke).

Learn about the Bicycle Friendly Community Campaign and find out how to enter your community.

See League Honors Eleven New Bicycle-Friendly Communities to Kick Off National Bike Month to learn about the most recent award-winning communities or Bicycle Friendly Communities 2003 for details about last year's winners.