I had the opportunity to sit on a panel for the American Planning Conference in Anchorage last week. The topic was “livability and the bottom line” or, how I interpreted it, “why businesses should cater to cyclists”. I knew right off the bat this wouldn’t be a hard argument to make. I recently visited Mackinac Island in Michigan and got a taste for the way cars (or lack of) can impact a community. Situated in Lake Huron, the island has been car-free since the end of the 19th century. Bikes and horse-drawn carriages are the primary modes of transportation. I spent way more money at local fudge shops while strolling through on foot than I would have zipping through town in a car. The whole island just felt safer and more inviting.

We know Alaskans are hardy, and now we have statistical proof. We commute by bike or foot more often, per capita, than residents of any other state, according to the American Community Survey. Despite freezing temperatures, we log pedal-powered miles all year long. This in-all-kinds-of-weather attitude combined with our world-class trail system could make Anchorage a premier winter mobility city.

Join us on September 23rd-24th as we help the city get a handle on who uses our trails! This data collection effort will aid in the development of the city's new Non-Motorized Plan - an important document that will set priorities for things we care about, like new trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes! 

As part of the upcoming Data Blitz Weekend, Bike Anchorage will be hosting a community ride on Sunday, September 24th from 10am-12pm! We will be joined by Fred Young, Principal Designer with Alta Planning + Design, who will explain how the data collection will inform future city planning. So come along if you're curious about Anchorage's non-motorized future! More details coming soon. 

Ok, I'll admit it. I'm *that bicyclist. This month I bought a neon yellow helmet (like the kind given to tourists), and my confession is that I love it.

I distinctly remember telling my mother two years ago that I would not wear a neon helmet--similar to a conversation we had when I was in the fifth grade about jeans (yuck) vs. sweatpants (yes!). I eventually saw the light. Last spring, I got a neon yellow windbreaker that changed everything.

As I rode, I could see my glowing arms and never felt so visible! I felt more confident that other people could see me better in the morning dusk. A neon helmet is a natural progression, and just in time for winter darkness to sneak up on my morning commute. 

In Alaska, being a highly visible bicyclist is a necessity. Here are a few tips to be seen around town: 

Amazing turnout to this morning's Bike to Work Day treat station celebrations: 4,189 riders throughout Anchorage!

Thanks to everyone who turned out today and every day to make this city a great place for bicycling.