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For more information, contact: Maine Named Sixth Best State for Biking The League of American Bicyclists has announced its first annual ranking of Bicycle Friendly States, scoring all 50 states on more than 70 factors. Maine ranked as the sixth best state for bicycling. States were scored on responses to a questionnaire evaluating their commitment to bicycling that covered six key areas: legislation, policies and programs, infrastructure, education and encouragement, evaluation and planning and enforcement. "Our ranking is a tribute to the hard work done by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM), bicycle advocates, MaineDOT and others to improve cycling conditions in our state," said Allison Vogt, BCM's executive director. "We still have much to accomplish to improve safety and access," she added. The League ranked the highest states overall, beginning at the top, as: Washington, Wisconsin, Arizona, Oregon?and Minnesota. The bottom five, in descending order, were North Dakota, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and West Virginia. Andy Clarke, president of the League, said, "While every state has room to improve in making bicycling a preferred mode of transportation and accessible form of recreation, Washington is making the greatest strides to make this a reality." Clarke points to Washington's model bike laws, signed and mapped statewide bike route network, dedicated funding from the state for bicycle related programs and projects and an active statewide bicycle advisory committee. The bottom end of the ranking paints a different picture. "West Virginia may offer some great trails and mountain biking resources, but otherwise fell short in every category," said Clarke. "Their low bicycle usage rates and high cyclist crash and fatality rates are indicative of a state that does not adequately provide for the needs of cyclists." The annual state rankings are the first part of a new League program. States are encouraged to further apply for award recognition of bronze, silver, gold or platinum status, similar to the League's popular Bicycle Friendly Community program, now recognizing 85 communities across 32 states. Award recognition will be accompanied by technical assistance and further support as states work to become more bicycle-friendly. The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of 57 million American cyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org. Formed in 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine is working to make Maine accessible and safe for all residents and visitors so they may comfortably and responsibly bicycle. The BCM also promotes bicycling for transportation, health, recreation and fun to enhance our communities, environment and economy. # # #
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