Greetings all,

It seems evident that 1) there is diversity of opinion as to how to engage those outside the club on transit issues; and 2) there is variation within the club on how to represent ourselves as cyclists to other cyclists as well as non-cyclists.

Having acknowledged that, let me suggest two things that all GCC members can do to express our shared interests as cyclists:

1. Whether you agree with what James put in his editorial, WRITE YOUR OWN -- and write the city and county commissioners and Gainesville Public Works about transit issues like 8th Avenue. The key is that there be a cacophony (if not a symphony) of voices on behalf of cycling. I've written the entities above in support of the restriping of 8th Ave. While I didn't take the line James takes, we both sent the same message -- more infrastructure for bikes is a good thing. This is what local representatives and public works need to be hearing.

2. Whether you ride on club rides or log your miles, RIDE YOUR BIKE -- preferably where there are lots of other people. The point here is to demonstrate the utility and fun of riding. The more cyclists on the streets, the more justification for bike lanes, the more awareness by motorists of cyclists, and so on. The reverse is also true from bike lanes to bike lane use, which is why projects like 8th Ave are important.

Have a great weekend,

Stephen Perz

GCC Member since 1998

LAB LCI #864