Missouri Bicycle News

So far in the Missouri legislature this year there is one proposed law that explicitly mentions bicycle/pedestrian projects.

It is a proposed updating of the law regarding Transportation Development Districts. This is a special district where a tax can be levied in order to help build certain transportation projects.

The bike/ped change is just one of many proposed in this law, but it is very simple. The current law has a long list of transportation projects that may be funded by Transportation Development Districts. The proposed new law would add "bicycle or pedestrian facilities" to the list.

Bill sponsor is Jon Dolan Chair of the Missouri Senate's Transportation Committee. permanent link to article: "Proposed bill may help funding of bicycle & pedestrian facilities in Missouri"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/31/2005 12:50:00 AM |comment on this article

Missouri bicyclists,

You may be interested to know that our current fund raising drive will end at the end of January. That's the good news--I won't be pestering you about it any more!

So far we have raised $3945 and added 80 new or renewing members.

As you know, the main reason we are fund raising right now is to raise $5000 needed to pay for a representative who is in Jefferson City full time during the legislative session to work for the interests of bicyclists and move forward our bicycle safety legislation.

Before we wrap up our campaign January 31st, I would really like to have the $5000 in hand, or at least be really close to it.

So if you have been thinking about donating but haven't gotten around to it--well, now would be a really good time:

http://MoBikeFed.org/donate

Keep in mind that every little bit helps--almost half the money we have raised so far is from small donations, like $50 or less.

Speaking for the entire board of the Missouri Bicycle Federation, I can see that we deeply appreciate the support the bicycling community has given MoBikeFed. This represents a huge step forward for MoBikeFed and for bicycling in Missouri.

Many, many individual bicyclists and many bicycle clubs and groups have stepped up and shown their support.

Thank you!

--Brent

What has MoBikeFed done for you lately?

What are MoBikeFed's plans for the future?

permanent link to article: "MoBikeFed fund raising drive wraps up January 31st--can we reach our $5000 goal?"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/30/2005 01:17:00 PM |comment on this article

Today's STLToday has an article about a relatively new Missouri law that allows people who know of a person who is (or is becoming) an unsafe driver, to ask the MO Department of Revenue to test the person:

Years after two grieving parents lobbied for a Missouri law to help clear the roads of dangerous drivers, the couple wonder whether the law is doing enough good. . . .

Under the law, anyone with intimate knowledge that a person's driving skills are diminishing can file what's known as a driver condition report. Family members, doctors, police, state employees, even friends and neighbors can fill out the reports, which are kept confidential. . . .

The Suroffs, of Creve Coeur, pushed lawmakers to pass a law that allows people to report bad driving. But six years after the law took effect, observers wonder why more people aren't using it.

The Jefferson City Tribune had an article with more details about the program.

The form to report an unsafe driver is provided by the Missouri Department of Revenue. permanent link to article: "Unsafe drivers in Missouri may be reported"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/26/2005 12:50:00 PM |comment on this article

Ken Miner, Kansas State Representative of the International Mountain Bicycling Association sent this message:
On Tuesday, January 25, the Kansas Senate introduced Senate Bill 87 that would provide for a different (and better) way to fund state parks. Montana has successfully used a similar funding system.

SB 87 provides that state parks would be funded through a $5 "outdoor registration fee" levied with the purchase of a vehicle tag. $4 of the $5 fee would be used for park operations and $1 would be used for the outdoor grant program which has not been funded in recent years. The grant program would be a potential funding source for trail projects. State park access would be "free" because the $5 tag fee would replace the $35.50 state park passes we now buy. Out-of-state park users would continue to pay fees for access to the state parks.

Some might argue that this is just another tax to pay and it is paid by all vehicle owners even if they do not use the state parks. The bill addresses these two issues squarely. First, the $5 fee would replace the current general budget funding. It is not a new tax, it replaces tax dollars from the general fund. Second, if a taxpayer does not use the state parks or just disagrees with the idea, they can request a refund of the $5 fee.

We believe this is a better way to fully fund the state park system which has in recent years struggled for adequate funding. If you agree, we hope you will contact your Senator and Representative. The bill was referred to the Senate Ways and Means Committee whose members include: Umbarger, Emler, McGinn, Morris, V. Schmidt, Schodorf, Taddiken, Teichman, Wysong, Barone, Betts, Kelly and Steineger.

You can download a pdf of SB 87 here.

To identify your Senator you may log onto the Legislature's website.

SB 87 progress can be tracked here.

Letters, email and phone calls are all useful means of contacting your legislative representatives.

Thanks for your support of Kansas trails! Please feel free to forward this email on to other Kansas outdoor enthusiasts or lists. permanent link to article: "Kansas legislation would make a better way to fund state parks & trails"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/26/2005 09:54:00 AM |comment on this article

A Sun-News of the Northland article this week talks about the results of the Ed Chasteen "No Bicycle Zone" case, in which Ed challenged the no bicycle zone in Lawson, Missouri:

Lawson won the bicycle battle, but lost the war for public opinion with the decision rendered last week by that community's municipal judge, Tom Fincham. . . .

The case of Lawson v. Chasteen had been slated to go to municipal court in December, but the city's prosecutor, Tom McGiffin, said he examined the city's poorly written anti-bicycle-pushing ordinance and decided prosecuting the offense made no sense legally.

"The ordinance seemed to apply to other individuals ... to hold parents responsible for their kids maybe riding their bikes or causing disturbances on the main street," McGiffin said.

Sun-News also had a separate news story about the issue.

The Kansas City Star had a news article about the situation.

Dirt Rag weighed in with this opinion:

The biggest Endo, no wait, a Double Endo goes to the town of Lawson, Missouri for actually enforcing their “No Bikes” law, and fining a man with MS, no less! Recently, the city fined Ed Chasteen for pushing his bicycle in a place he’s been riding for years. Chasteen has MS and has difficulty walking, but finds riding his bike a much easier mode of transportation. Instead of realizing that their policy was ridiculous, the city prosecuted Chasteen and fined him $75 plus court costs.

Let’s see, a town essentially tells its kids (that’s who the ban was aimed at in the first place) that they should be fat and lazy and reliant on their parents, and then fines a man who has no better way to get around. I’m boycotting Lawson.

More info about the Lawson situation background, trial, media coverage, and aftermath. permanent link to article: "Further fallout from the Lawson, MO, "No Bicycle Zone" case"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/23/2005 11:41:00 AM |comment on this article

The League of American Bicyclists exists to promote bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation and works through advocacy and education to create a bicycle-friendly America. They accomplish this by representing the interests of the nation's 57 million cyclists. They have a current membership of 300,000 affiliated cyclists, including 40,000 individuals and 600 affiliated organizations, the League works to bring better bicycling to all communities.

The League was founded as the League of American Wheelmen in 1880. Bicyclists, known then as "wheelmen", were challenged by rutted roads of gravel and dirt and faced antagonism from horsemen, wagon drivers, and pedestrians.

In an effort to improve riding conditions so they might better enjoy their newly discovered sport, over 100,000 cyclists from across the United States joined the League to advocate for paved roads. The success of the League in its first advocacy efforts ultimately led to our national highway system.

Today, joining the League is a critical first step in creating a bicycle-friendly America. Along with the good feeling you'll get knowing your supporting the organization that supports your rights to safe and enjoyable cycling you will receive a subscription to Bicycling magazine, discounts and special offers on travel, cycling products, and more. You'll also get the League's Annual Almanac of Cycling, Tourfinder & Ride Guide, the League's magazine covering the world of cycling, the Bikes Fly Free program (when you book your travel through the League's travel agency) and discount prices at League events, including our National Rally of Cyclists.

You can join today at www.bikeleague.org or by phone at (202) 822-1333.
permanent link to article: "League of American Bicyclists encourages bicyclists to support a bicycle friendly America"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/19/2005 07:37:00 PM |comment on this article

TrailNet and Great Rivers Greenway, two major organizations working to create the network of recreational trails in St. Louis, have reached an agreement about an undeveloped section of Grant's Trail and the two-mile West Alton Trail:

According to a St. Louis Post-Dispatch article:

The district bought the sections from Trailnet Inc. Both organizations work toward developing and promoting an interconnected system of greenways, parks and trails in the area. The Greenway District is taxpayer-funded, and Trailnet is a nonprofit group.

Just over a year ago, the district abruptly pulled its offer to purchase the two-mile section of Grant's Trail after learning from a Post-Dispatch reporter that Trailnet paid far less for the land than the district planned to pay for it. The district had budgeted $1.6 million, and Trailnet had paid $330,000 about two years previously. . . .


"I think it did help the deal along," Janet Wilding, project manager for the Greenway District, said of the West Alton trail. "A lot of things were discussed ... Our organizations came to a bigger understanding of what our roles would be. It kind of defined our missions more of us being in the trail-building business and Trailnet being more in advocacy and programming."

Curtis said the Greenway District is in a better position to develop the trails system, since they get about $10 million in sales tax money a year.

"They build the trails, and we get people out to them and do the programs," Curtis said.

Trailnet will use the money to pay off other projects and to speed along others, such as refurbishing the Old Laclede Power Building on the riverfront just north of the Arch. The building will feature offices, bike rentals and serve as a trailhead for the Riverfront Trail, Curtis said.

permanent link to article: "TrailNet and Great Rivers Greenway find a new relationsip in St. Louis"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/18/2005 11:17:00 PM |comment on this article

The Insight Race Across America is pleased to announce a two-hour NBC Sports airing of the 2004 edition of RAAM on Saturday, January 22, 2005, 2.30 p.m. - 4.30 p.m. EST (check your listings for any local variations).

The NBC broadcast adds to a host of feature-length shows focusing on the event internationally, and in its 24th year, RAAM is now receiving worldwide recognition beyond the wildest dreams of the race's founders. As it approaches its quarter-century milestone, RAAM is gradually becoming an international tradition. A key observer of RAAM's development is Jim Lampley, who hosted ABC's Wide World of Sports telecasts of the first five RAAM editions and who is one of the Executive Producers of the upcoming telecast. Lampley's company, Crystal Spring Productions, was hard at work on RAAM even as he worked his twelfth Olympics as a broadcaster for NBC in Athens.

The Insight Race Across America starts in San Diego on June 19th and ends in Atlantic City on June 28th. The planned 3,000 mile route passes through California, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illiniois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey, and includes about 150,000 feet of climbing. Up to 150 cyclists from 15 nations are expected to participate in the 2005 edition. permanent link to article: "Race Across America (RAAM) to be covered on NBC Sports Jan 22nd"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/18/2005 07:48:00 PM |comment on this article

Lawson, MO, city officials have been inundated with mail and email from across the country after national media outlets picked up on the story that a bicyclist with MS had been ticketed for pushing a bicycle in a "no bicycle zone" in Lawson.

Here is some of the fallout.

Sun-News of the Northland detailed the trial, including this tidbit:

The charge facing Chasteen proved so weak that in December Lawson City Prosecutor Tom McGiffin, now a former prosecutor, had refused to take the case into court.

"It was not the type of case that I thought needed to be prosecuted," McGiffin says later. "The ordinance seemed to apply to other individuals ... to hold parents responsible for their kids maybe riding their bikes or causing disturbances on the main street."

The case should have gone to trial last month, but because McGiffin refused to prosecute, the court delayed the case. In the meantime, city leaders canned McGiffin.

KCStar columnist Mike Hendricks says: "Well, after six months, the saga ended this week. Chasteen couldn't convince Lawson leaders their law was unfair. Instead, a city judge fined him $75, plus court costs. Says Ed about any future plans to return to his favorite Lawson cafe on two wheels: 'More friendly places beckon.'"

KMBC-TV also had a followup piece.

For cyclists wanting to see this law changed, probably the most effective thing right now would be to write or fax Lawson Mayor George Green:

George Green, Mayor
City of Lawson
PO Box 185
Lawson, MO 64062
Phone: 816-580-3217
Fax: 816-296-4013

permanent link to article: "Fallout from Lawson, MO, "no bicycle zone" conviction"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/14/2005 03:30:00 PM |comment on this article

The new policy for applying for Transportation Enhancements funds has been approved by MoDOT.

All information and forms can be found online at MoDOT's web site.

Local governments and agencies can apply for Transportation Enhancements funds using this procedure.

Enhancements funds, which come from the federal transportation fund, are most often used for bicycle and pedestrian projects like multi-use trails, adding bicycle lanes to existing or proposed streets, and the like. permanent link to article: "MoDOT approves new Transportation Enhancements application procedure"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/14/2005 02:43:00 PM |comment on this article

The Missouri Bicycle Federation encourages local clubs, groups, and individuals to organize a local "Ride of Silence" to bring awareness of bicyclists and pedestrians sharing the roadway with motorists in Missouri.

Below is a sample press release you may use with your local press:

Press Release

www.rideofsilence.org

[local] contact: [insert local contact info: name, address, email, phone]

Who: Cyclists especially, but also runners, and others who legally share the road

What: The Ride Of Silence

When: Wednesday, May 18, 2004, 7pm

Where: [insert info about where local ride will start/end]

Where (some of the 2004 locations): Kansas City, MO ; Springfield, MO ; St. Louis, MO ; Flagstaff and Phoenix, AZ ; Irvine, CA ; Santa Rosa, CA - Corporate Center ; San Diego, CA ; Los Angeles, CA Two rides ; Modesto, CA ; Boulder, CO - Boulder Reservoir ; Golden, CO ; Hartford, CT ; Valdosta, GA. ; Hawaii ; Rockford, IL Alpine Park ; Fitchburg, MA - Princeton Road off Rte. 2 ; Ann Arbor, MI ; Detroit, MI ; Missoula, MT ; Ashville, NC ; Charlotte, NC ; Las Vegas, NV ; Columbus, OH ; Oklahoma City, OK ; Stillwater, OK ; Tulsa, OK Riverside Drive ; Pittsburg, PA ; Memphis, TN ; Murfreesboro, TN ; Nashville, TN ; Austin, TX ; Conroe, TX ; Dallas, TX White Rock Lake ; Ft. Worth Texas Motorspeedway ; Houston, TX downtown ; Killeen, TX ; San Antonio, TX past the Alamo ; St. George, Utah ; Milwaukee/Madison, WI ; Montreal, Canada two locations ; Ontario, Canada ; Ottawa, Canada ; Sherbrooke, Quebec ; Munich, Germany

Why: to mourn those cyclists already killed by motorists

to raise awareness (among motorists, police, and city officials) of cyclists on the road

to have motorists know we only want to share the road we ride on

to show that cyclists are not going away


THE RIDE OF SILENCE WILL NOT BE QUIET

On May 18, at 7 PM around the country, cyclists will take to the roads in a silent protest of what they call, carnage, taking place on the streets. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public doesn't seem aware they are there. The Dallas, Texas area is known throughout the country as being hostile toward cyclists, as evidenced of cyclists recent deaths and injuries due to motorists.

Chris Phelan organized the first Ride Of Silence in Dallas last May after endurance cyclists Larry Schwartz was killed by a bus mirror on an empty road.

The Ride Of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph and remain silent during the ride.

The ride hopes to raise cycling awareness during bike safety month to motorists, police, and city officials. The ride is also a chance to mourn, in funeral procession style, those who have already been killed. The ride also requests black arm bands be worn, red if you have had a bike/motor vehicle accident.

Phelan is looking for as many cyclists are possible to join him at White Rock Lake in Dallas, or one of the other 35 locations in the US and Canada, including locations in Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield, MO. People can also be listed as endorsing the ride without financial obligation or responsibility.

He can be reached at coachphelan@sbcglobal.net

The web site is www.rideofsilence.org

[insert info about local contact]

permanent link to article: "Sample Press Release for the "Ride of Silence", May 18th, 2005"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/14/2005 12:55:00 PM |comment on this article

Ed Barsotti, Executive Director of the League of Illinois Bicyclists sent this announcement:

Yesterday, Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn held a press conference kicking off a petition drive and
administrative request to allow bikes on Metra trains during off-peak hours. The administrative
petition was signed by Quinn, Chicagoland Bicycle Federation's Randy Neufeld, Chicago Critical Mass'
Michael Burton, and myself. A Chicago Tribune story is below.

Cyclists are encouraged to sign the on-line petition at http://www.bikesonmetra.com

Metra is a light rail system serving 230 stations in the northeastern Illinois counties of Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will, McHenry and Kane.

In Missouri, the St. Louis-area light rail system has one of the best bicycle roll-on policies in the U.S--roll-on the trains at all hours (space permitting, of course).

permanent link to article: "Illinois bicyclists petition for bike roll-on on Metra trains"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/14/2005 10:28:00 AM |comment on this article

The St. Louis Regional Bicycle Federation has shown its support for the statewide advocacy efforts of the Missouri Bicycle Federation with two $500 contributions, one in 2004 and one in 2005.

The Missouri Bicycle Racing Association (MOBRA) has shown similar support with a $500 contribution.

"People in the St. Louis region certainly benefit from improved cycling conditions around the state, so we are pleased to make this investment in Missouri's cycling future," said Bob Foster, chair of the St. Louis Regional Bicycle Federation. "We appreciate the MBF's leadership in working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, as well as statewide education, tourism and economic development agencies. By partnering with like-minded organizations, the St. Louis Regional Bicycle Federation is ensuring that cyclists' interests are well represented."

"The Missouri Bicycle Federation deeply appreciates the vision of these two organizations in understanding the value of supporting statewide education and advocacy," said Missouri Bicycle Federation President Brent Hugh. "Bicycle organizations are not wealthy and these contributions represent a significant amount of sacrifice and work by the members and leaders of these groups."

The donations will be used to move forward the Missouri Bicycle Federation's stated mission of advocating advancement of bicycling access, safety and education on the statewide level in Missouri. permanent link to article: "MoBikeFed announces major contributions from the St. Louis Regional Bicycle Federation and the Missouri Bicycle Racing Association"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/12/2005 03:12:00 PM |comment on this article

Today the Missouri Bicycle Federation, in cooperation with bicycle clubs, advocacy organizations, and individual bicyclists around the state, announced that it has hired James Farrell of Policy Solutions, LLC, to represent Missouri bicyclists and defend bicyclists right to the road before the Missouri legislature.

"This is the most exciting step the Missouri Bicycle Federation has ever taken," says Missouri Bicycle Federation President Brent Hugh. "Advocacy organizations in other states report that hiring someone to work full time on behalf of bicyclists in the 'halls of power' can make a dramatic difference in defending bicyclist right to use the public roadways, increase funding for bicycle accommodations and recreational trails, and move bicycle-friendly legislation forward."

This move could not have been made without significant support of the Missouri Bicycle Federation from Missouri bicycle clubs, advocacy groups, and individuals.

MoBikeFed is devoted to advocating advancement of bicycling access, safety and education on the statewide level in Missouri. "What happens at the statewide level, with the Missouri legislature and MoDOT, affects bicyclists in every city and town in Missouri," says Hugh. "By the same token, we cannot do anything at the statewide level without working in cooperation with local and regional bicycle clubs and advocacy groups."

More on MoBikeFed's ongoing advocacy campaign is at MoBikeFed.org/donate.

permanent link to article: "MoBikeFed hires lobbyist to defend bicyclist rights before the Missouri legislature"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/12/2005 03:01:00 PM |comment on this article

A message from MoBikeFed President Brent Hugh:

Missouri Cyclists,

You should know that the MoBikeFed board is in revolt and I am in danger of being toppled from the pinnacle of power (yes, the awesome power and authority that comes with being president of MBF . . . ) by a palace coup.

Reason is, the board voted to raise MoBikeFed dues to $20 starting January 1st. But I wanted to be sure the EVERYONE had a chance to join or renew at the old rate of $15.

So I have taken it upon myself to extend the $15 membership rate until January 15th. That is Saturday!

Click here save $5 and join MoBikeFed at the "old" rate.

But the dire threats from board members mean I ABSOLUTELY cannot extend it even one minute past Saturday . . . or I risk losing my GRIP on POWER.

Incidentally--for those of you in clubs--your club can join now for $30. After Saturday it will be $50.

Click here to join, or send name, address, phone, and email address along with your check, to

MOBikeFed
Post Office Box 104871
Jefferson City, MO 65110-4871

Thank you!

Dry trails and warm tailwinds,

--Brent

permanent link to article: "Last chance to save $5 and join MoBikeFed for only $15"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/12/2005 02:26:00 PM |comment on this article

Springfield is re-configuring East Trafficway, a major thoroughfare, to be more appealing and attractive to bicyclists and pedestrians. According to a News-Leader article:

The centerpiece is construction of a landscaped median, which traffic engineers say will make the roadway safer for pedestrians near Hammons Field and Jordan Valley Park.

"Right now, you have a 63-foot slab of asphalt," Haynes described East Trafficway. "We want to break that up. ... That's the purpose of the median — more for beautification."

The median also reduces the width of each of East Trafficway's lanes, from 12 feet to 10 feet. Haynes said that will make drivers instinctively slow down.

"It provides a more safe feeling for the pedestrian to cross," he said.

Among the improvements are five-foot bicycle lanes on each side, sidewalks, and buried power lines. permanent link to article: "Major Springfield trafficway gets landscaping, narrower lanes, and bike lanes"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/12/2005 09:18:00 AM |comment on this article

Missouri Bicyclists,

The Missouri Bicycle Federation, in cooperation with MoDOT Bike/Ped Coordinator Caryn Giarratano, has released a new set of maps showing shoulders on Missouri highways.

These maps should be very useful for planning the more rural segments of any bicycle trip or route, and particularly for planning cross-state bicycle trips.

Last year, MOBikeFed released a previous set of shoulder maps and solicited bicyclist feedback on them. Thanks to your responses, the new shoulder maps should be far more accurate. Every bicyclist comment about the previous shoulder maps was carefully checked out and, in addition, routes were doubled checked to improve the quality of the underlying data.

The new maps show more detail, too, indicating width of shoulders in feet, showing roads that have shoulders on one side only, and indicating paved or unpaved condition.

Although we feel the new maps are far, far more accurate than the old, at this time we are officially releasing the maps for comment and feedback only. Please do take the time to look over the roads you know and let us know whether the map is accurate or not.

You can make comments about the map here.

Please keep in mind that your membership in MoBikeFed helps make projects like the Missouri Shoulder Map possible.

No one but MoBikeFed is working at the statewide level to protect--and expand!--bicyclist and pedestrian rights and funding.

Click here to find out more about joining MoBikeFed.

--Brent

permanent link to article: "MoBikeFed releases new maps showing Missouri highway shoulders"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/10/2005 05:11:00 PM |comment on this article

The University of Kansas and KLM Marketing Solutions will host the US Collegiate Road National Championships for the next three years, USA Cycling announced today. The event was originally intended for New Haven, Connecticut, but when the promoter ran into some unforeseen issues, the '05 Nationals were left without a host. The KU Cycling Club and KLM Marketing Solutions stepped in and despite having only five months to plan, the preparations are well under way.

Competition will consist of a road race, criterium, and team time trial offering challenges to riders of all calibres. The road course is a 23 mile loop around Lake Perry. "It's a very hilly and challenging course," said KLM Marketing Solutions President Bill Marshall. "Anyone who says Kansas is flat has only driven their car there - not ridden a bike."

Registration information and other details for the 2005 event, scheduled for May 13-15, will soon be available at www.usacycling.org and at www.klmmarketingsolutions.com.

[via Bill Crawford on Cycling-N-JC]
permanent link to article: "Kansas to host 2005-2007 Collegiate National Cycling Championships"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/10/2005 10:32:00 AM |comment on this article

Steve Patterson, cyclist and author of the Urban Review-St. Louis blog, made this announcement today:

I have it on very good authority that a candidate has filed today, the last day, for the 25th Ward Aldermanic seat against incumbent Dorothy Kirner. And how do I know this?

The candidate is me. Yes, I have decided to run for the St. Louis Board of Alderman.

MoBikeFed's own treasurer, Paul Wojciechowski, successfully ran for the city council in Wildwood. John Robinson, director of the Missouri Division of Tourism, is a cyclist.

Are there any other cyclists sitting on city councils or holding public office in Missouri? I would love to hear about them . . . email president@mobikefed.org.

MoBikeFed members provide the support that keeps MoBikeFed.org on the air . . . support MoBikeFed.org by joining today! permanent link to article: "Cyclist to run for St. Louis alderman position"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/07/2005 04:46:00 PM |comment on this article

The Missouri Bicycle Federation is asking Missouri bicyclists, its own members, and bicycle clubs and groups around the state to support its current fund drive.

What is MoBikeFed currently doing? How will the funds we raise help MoBikeFed better serve Missouri bicyclists?

In short, what will we do with the money we raise?

MoBikeFed President Brent Hugh has posted a detailed list of MoBikeFed's current activities, showing what will continue and what will expand if we raise the funds.
permanent link to article: "MoBikeFed's current and future plans and programs"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/07/2005 01:43:00 AM |comment on this article

According to Men's Fitness magazine's yearly rankings, Kansas City is the 18th fattest city in the U.S. The only good news is that KC was even lower--14th--in 2004:

Kansas City climbed up four positions, due to better sports participation, less TV watching, and a good commute. However, the city is held back by poor nutrition statewide and a higher than average health risk related to residents with weight issues, according to the CDC. Kansas City does have some hope — fast food and donut shops number merely average, and its commute rate is the third best in the nation. And don't forget the parks: Kansas City ranks in the top ten in acres of city parks and open space among our cities surveyed.

According to a Center for Disease Control study, about 6 out of 10 residents of K.C. residents weigh enough to raise their risk for health problems. Almost 27 percent of Missourians haven't been physically active at all for the past 30 days.

Kansas City has been in the fattest cities list every year since at least 2000 (the first year online results are available). It has ranked as low as 2nd fattest (2000). permanent link to article: "Kansas City 18th fattest city in U.S., according to magazine"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/06/2005 04:06:00 PM |comment on this article

The case against bicyclist Ed Chasteen, who has MS, proceeded in Lawson municipal court Monday evening.

Chasteen was charged with "pushing a bicycle" in an area where that was not allowed.

"No other city in the U.S. has a law against pushing your bicycle on a sidewalk," said Missouri Bicycle Federation President Brent Hugh. "We applaud the intention of Lawson's leaders to revise and modernize this outdated law."

Lawson's mayor, chief of police, and the officer who wrote Chasteen's ticket all testified against Chasteen. Chasteen's attorney asked questions during the trial indicating that Lawson's previous city prosecutor had refused to file the case as unprosecutable. Although the judge refused to allow the questions, a different prosecutor was, indeed, handling the case.

Chasteen's attorney argued that the law is unconstitutionally vague, includes an inappropriate penalty designed for parents of children, and violates the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The judge will consider the case and issue a verdict within 10 days.

Ed's friends and supporters packed the courtroom. Representatives from the Greater Kansas City Bicycle Federation and the Missouri Bicycle Federation were there.

Local media reports erroneously indicated that Lawson's mayor is against any changes to the "no bicycle zone" law. Lawson City Manager John Tracy indicates that, in fact, an update to the law is on the agenda for this spring. Lawson is looking at bicycle law in nearby cities as a model.

However, at least some Lawson residents oppose any change in the "no bicycle" restriction.

Chasteen is from nearby Liberty, MO.

Chasteen's group bicycles to Lawson for breakfast about once every 5 weeks.

Lawson is on Adventure Cycling's "Lewis and Clark Trail", a popular bicycle touring route reaching from Hartford, IL, to Astoria, OR.

Background on the Lawson "no bicycle zone" issue.

You can contact Lawson officials:

John Tracy, City Manager
City of Lawson
PO Box 185
Lawson, MO 64062
Phone: 816-580-3217
Fax: 816-296-4013
Email: lawsoncityclerk@aol.com

George Green, Mayor
City of Lawson
PO Box 185
Lawson, MO 64062

January is MoBikeFed's membership drive. If you visit MoBikeFed.org more than once a month, you should seriously consider joining. Why do we need your help right now? What are the benefits of membership? permanent link to article: "Cyclist with multiple sclerosis tried for "pushing bicycle""
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/04/2005 04:52:00 PM |comment on this article

At least 51 local television stations around the country and some newspapers have picked up a story originating at Kansas City's KMBC:

Cyclists in Lawson are supporting a fellow rider's push to change a "no bicycle" ordinance.

In July, Ed Chasteen rode into the small town northeast of Kansas City and received a ticket for parking his bike outside a restaurant in the no-bike zone. . . .

Chasteen is fighting his ticket and is trying to get the town's law changed.

Note that the video version of the story is both more accurate and more complete than the condensed web write-up. (The video version can be viewed from KMBC's web site--look for a small photo with the heading "Video".)

Please note, however, that in both the print and video versions of the story is one major inaccuracy. The story says, "Lawson's mayor told KMBC that there are no plans to change the bike rule." I just discussed this with Lawson City Manager John Tracy, who indicated that, although they do not feel that they can make a special exception to current law just for Ed, revising Lawson's bicycle ordinance is certainly still on the table.

Lawson is planning to revitalize its downtown and amenities like bicycle parking will likely be part of that plan. Lawson is looking at bicycle ordinances from surrounding communities and will likely end up with an ordinance similar to theirs (though Tracy made it clear that any possible changes must go through an unpredictable legislative process).

At least some people in Lawson are opposed to removing the no bicycle zone, however, and one solution that has been proposed is to allow an exception for disabled people while retaining the general bicycle ban for everyone else.

TV stations in major markets around the country have picked up the story, including Washington, DC, San Diego, Jacksonville, FL, New Orleans, Houston, Omaha, Milwaukee, Louisville, Pittsburgh, Denver, and Honolulu.

MoBikeFed news has covered this story:

• Ed received the ticket
• article by KCStar's Mike Hendricks about Ed and Lawson
• what has happened in other cities across the country that have tried to restrict non-motorized travel by disabled persons
• first court date (advocacy alert)
• second court date (advocacy alert)
• results of second court date

Contact info for Lawson city officials:

John Tracy, City Manager
City of Lawson
PO Box 185
Lawson, MO 64062
Phone: 816-580-3217
Fax: 816-296-4013
Email: lawsoncityclerk@aol.com

George Green, Mayor
City of Lawson
PO Box 185
Lawson, MO 64062

January is MoBikeFed's membership drive. If you visit MoBikeFed.org more than once a month, you should seriously consider joining. Why do we need your help right now? What are the benefits of membership?
permanent link to article: "National news picks up on Missouri "no bicycle zone" story"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/04/2005 04:10:00 PM |comment on this article

A part of the current discussion about a street in Lawson, Missouri, where bicycles are banned, is the issue of access by people with disabilities. Ed Chasteen, who was charged with pushing his bicycle in a zone where bicycle pushing was not allowed, has multiple sclerosis.

Many small towns have tried in one way or another to ban disabled persons from using "alternative" vehicles--wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs, scooters, golf carts, and so on--to move around town.

The efforts to curtail this travel have almost always been unsuccessful in the end. The dangers feared by city officials almost always turn out to be greatly exaggerated. Where real, they are easily solved--for instance, by requiring blinky lights after dark. Public opinion and federal law favor disabled citizens, as well.

A CNN article covers the situation in Laurens, IA (with a roundup of other similar cases around the country).

A Marshall News story covers the brouhaha in Sweet Springs, Missouri. A Google search reveals a many more articles covering the Sweet Springs situation.

January is MoBikeFed's membership drive. If you visit MoBikeFed.org more than once a month, you should seriously consider joining. Why do we need your help right now? What are the benefits of membership?
permanent link to article: "Access for people with disabilities"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/04/2005 03:25:00 AM |comment on this article

MoDOT will sweep shoulders of MoDOT roads upon request.

Call 1-888-ASK-MODOT (toll free) to request that a particular shoulder be swept.

Be prepared to explain which district (D1-St. Joe, D2-north central, D3-Hannibal, D4-KC, D5-central, D6-St.L, D7-Joplin, D8-Springfield, D9-south central, D10-Cape Girardeau) and the section of roadway.

See MoBikeFed's maps section for maps showing various districts.

Keep in mind that MoDOT roads include all federal freeways and highways in Missouri (with numbers like I-70, US Hwy 40) and all state highways and roads (with numbers like 350 Hwy, Route V, Route JJ). Basically, any road with a highway number or letter is a MoDOT road.

This service would be particularly helpful if a group ride is planned that will use a particular road shoulder.

January is MoBikeFed's membership drive. If you visit MoBikeFed.org more than once a month, you should seriously consider joining. Why do we need your help right now? What are the benefits of membership? permanent link to article: "MoDOT will sweep road shoulders upon request"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/02/2005 10:32:00 PM |comment on this article

The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation has put together a draft bicycle benchmarking report that puts together various facts and statistics about bicycling in different cities and states around the U.S.

The report shows very clearly that better, larger, and better-funded bicycle advocacy organizations were generally associated with more bicycling, more bicycle accommodations, more funding for bicycle accommodations, more funding for bicycle safety, and lower bicycle injury and fatality rates.

Will you become a member of the Missouri Bicycle Federation or donate to MoBikeFed's current fund raising drive and make Missouri a better place to bicycle?

It really works. permanent link to article: "Better bicycle advocacy means better bicycling"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/02/2005 12:39:00 PM |comment on this article

Shirley Winkler of the Kansas City Bicycle Club (KCBC) asks:

We have three opening with the KCBC for next year. One is an officer position.

Do you know anyone that might be interested in KCBC's VP of Touring for 2005? We are also looking for a hospitality coordinator and volunteer coordinator.

KCBC is also looking for volunteers for 4 of our events each year, the Fountain Tour, Northland Delights, Summer Breeze and Brew to Brew Relay Run for the KC Track Club.

You can join KCBC online and find out more about the open positions, at www.kcbc.org.

permanent link to article: "Kansas City Bicycle Club needs YOU"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/02/2005 11:47:00 AM |comment on this article

The following materials are available free from MoDOT:

About Pedestrian Safety, Bicycle Safety Tips, From A to Z by Bike, Missouri Bicycle Statutes, Missouri Pedestrian Statutes, Pedestrian and Bus Safety Tips, Protecting Your Child's Head, and Street Smarts by John S. Allen.

Click here for more details and information on ordering.


January is MoBikeFed's membership drive. If you visit MoBikeFed.org more than once a month, you should seriously consider joining. Why do we need your help right now? What are the benefits of membership?
permanent link to article: "Free MoDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Educational and Safety Materials"
posted by Brent Hugh at 1/01/2005 11:41:00 PM |comment on this article