Riding Into The Future
(What You Can Do)
Since Chicago became a cycling city 130 years ago, the protections available for cyclists have come a long way. The fight has moved from convincing the people that bike lanes are important to regulatory legal fights within city council. At the end of the day the aldermen decide where bike lanes should pick up in their ward, and whether to include them at all. I spoke to a representative named Kevin from Bike PAC, a fundraising group that provides money for pro bike candidates, and he told me that a main issue is the sporadic nature of bike lanes. If you want to do something to protect our cyclists you can join in on the fun through several great opportunities.
Write to your alderman
If your neighborhood has no or poor bike lanes, your alderman is the primary person responsible. Create a petition with like minded community members and ask to sit down in your ward office to talk the issue over. Wards are relativly small and if you can generate an audience, your local parties will feel pressured to bend
Donate Money
Donations go a long way for both political campaigns and funding aid. There are many great options including High Fives, a program that helps rehab people from sporting related injuries. Bike PAC Chicago is another great option as they push to place bike friendly canidates in local office
Protest/Demonstrate
There are many weekly and monthly protests that you can join to speak out for cyclists. The photo at the top of this page is from Critical Mass, a multi-nation monthly ride that leaves from Daley Plaza and closes down major streets in the name of cycling safty.