Recycle biking community's positive energy

Credit: Times-Dispatch

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By: Tom Silvestri | tsilvestri@timesdispatch.com
Published: September 30, 2012 Updated: September 30, 2012 - 12:00 AM

Advocates for a bike-friendly Richmond Region should get what they want for the community.

Smooth roads.

Surfaces that don't blow out tires.

Clearly marked bike paths, safe from cars and trucks.

A coordinated regional network that unites urban, suburban and rural; cities and counties.

One major revitalized route that goes north and south. Another that travels east and west.

Completion of the Virginia Capital Trail from Richmond to Williamsburg.

A universal commitment to a healthier Richmond.

A welcoming environment just in time for the 2015 UCI Road World Championships.

* * * * *

For those worried about a free ride here, there's a return on the region's investment:

A fitter Richmond that better combats obesity and disease with exercise and the encouragement to move around.

A big lift to amenities sought by generations seeking to be less car-dependent.

An incentive to counter sprawl with more efficient community planning that rewards convenience and utility.

Lesser chances of bike-car accidents.

The land complement to the 2012 distinction of being the nation's top river town.

There's also a bonus reason that was on display at the 41st Public Square: Advocates of bike-friendly roads are Richmond Region super champions in the wings.

This is a group that wants our region to excel.

They could go elsewhere to cities that already demonstrate what they seek.

But they choose to propel Richmond. They see it as a developing canvas that can be turned into a masterpiece.

That's got to be a carrot for any government administrator or elected official, employer or nonprofit chief.

Turn on these folks with a biking network that's a crown jewel, and you'll have a supporter for life.

A pride team that can't be beat.

Regional promoters who will volunteer at the drop of an email call for action.

A group of people who will tell the world that this is best place to live.

And more importantly, a bunch of critical thinkers who will point out a problem and, in short order, offer a solution.

* * * * *

If anything separated this crowd from other Public Square gatherings, it was this achievement alone.

They didn't stop at noting shortcomings, though they did a good job of selling the problems.

They moved to a recommended improvement.

It's not a cynical, carping crowd.

Rather, it's a refreshing, reinventing, rewarding community ready to work shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbors on the concept, plan, installation and use.

In a poignant way, they get the value of a Richmond on the go.

Don't disappoint or frustrate this community of special interest.

Give them what they want.

Source: http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/commentary/2012/sep/30/tdcomm01-recycle-biking-communitys-positive-energy-ar-2243387/

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