The current state of American cities is heavily reliant on cars, resulting in traffic congestion, air pollution, and the wasting of valuable land on parking lots.
However, with the growing threats of climate change and the need to reduce carbon emissions, it is time to reconsider our dependence on cars. Visualizing life without cars may seem daunting, but it presents an opportunity to reimagine our cities and create a more sustainable future. American cities need to find ways to encourage alternative modes of transportation, such as biking, walking, and public transit, and invest in infrastructure that supports these options.
By doing so, we can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and reclaim valuable land that is currently being used for parking. It is time for American cities to prioritize people over cars and work towards a future that is both sustainable and equitable.
"Biking is a simple solution to climate change, congestion and the massive health crisis we have in this nation.”
Our society has long been focused on treating diseases, rather than preventing them. However, it's time we change our approach. We need to start taking action on various aspects of our lives that can contribute to better health. This includes healthy air, healthy water, healthy food and healthy ways of getting around.
BIKE SATURDAYS is more than just riding a bike, or Saturdays - its a movement that aims to promote healthier living by encouraging people to cycle, walk or use public transportation. It's not just more lip servce about the benefits of riding a bike, we take our message to the streets. LITERALLY!
"It is clear that increasing active transportation, and in particular cycling, will bring about significant health benefits through increased physical activity, reduced air pollution, and increased resistance to communicable disease help in the fight against climate change"
The Initiative for Health-Oriented Transportation
University of Wisconsin-Madison Global Health Institute
Nobody likes sitting in traffic. Commuting is one of the least pleasant things we do. But, we created it. We are the traffic we hate. it’s not just an annoying time waster — it’s also a major public health issue. We live in a world of commuters. Because of our love of cars and big suburban houses, 75% of Americans drive to work. Long distances. The average American travels 16 miles each way to their office and 220 million spend at least 1.5 hours a day in their cars.
THE BIKE SATURDAYS SOLUTION
PART I: Saturday Group Rides
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Not a race, or any form of competition
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Held weekly
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The purpose is to familiarize trail systems, trail etiquette, and safety
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The target audience are those who own bikes but rarely ride them and are part of the majority who feel it's unsafe to ride city streets.
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Each ride is sponsored by a local business
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No fees to sponsor the ride, or to participate
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Sponsor own ride date can promote anyway desired
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Click here to open your STRAVA page
PART II: Merchant Incentives
Encourages residents and visitors to travel by bike and to patronize local businesses. Participating businesses place a special BIKE SATURDAYS decal in their storefront which lets customers know they are participating in the program and are offering discounts."
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No fees to participate
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Decals provided
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Discounts and other incentives at the discretion of the merchant