Bicycle Friendly State
Pennsylvania Ranks #15 Bicycle Friendly State
The League of American Bicyclists has released its 2012 Bicycle Friendly States (BFS) Ranking. In the fifth annual assessment, Pennsylvania achieved a #15 ranking nationally. Pennsylvania’s #15 ranking was based on a number of key indicators, including infrastructure and funding that provide on-the-ground bicycle facilities; education and encourage programs that promote cycling; and passage and enforcement of bicycle-friendly laws that make it safe and comfortable for people of all ages to ride.
Pennsylvania has made strides in the past year that boosted its ranking from twenty-five (25) in 2011 to fifteen (15) in 2012. The passage of the Four Foot Passing Law has been the most significant accomplishment over the past year. Pennsylvania continues to advance projects that make bicycling more accessible to more people. Pennsylvania has made a commitment and a significant investment to increase the trail mileage and complete many of the region’s trunk line trails and close gaps. Statewide, advocacy is working and the message of improving bicycle facilities is being heard by our legislators.
The Ohio River Trail Council is pleased with the progress made, however there is still much more work to be done. We look forward to working with the League of American Bicyclists and continue to advocate for increased awareness of bicyclist needs. Passage of the Four Foot Law empowers cyclists to ride more confidently and safely on the roads, but there is still a broad based need to educate the motoring public to our presence.
The BFS program is more than an annual assessment. Throughout the year, the League of American Bicyclists staff work actively with state officials, trail organizations, and advocacy leaders to help Pennsylvania identify and implement the programs, policies and campaigns that will improve conditions for bicyclists.
“We are encouraged to see significant progress in top states like Washington, Minnesota, Colorado and Massachusetts,” said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists. “But, as the scores clearly highlight, there’s much work to be done in critical areas like infrastructure and funding. We look forward to working with Pennsylvania to improve conditions for people who bike for transportation and recreation.”
 Bicycle Friendly State Ranking Chart 2012 | [ ] | 143 Kb |
| Pennsylvania Bicycle Friendly State 2012 | [ ] | 240 Kb |