National Association of Counties * Washington, DC / Vol. 30, No. 8 * April 27, 1998

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Portland, Ore. is considered one of the country's most bicycle-friendly cities. During the NACo '98 Conference we hope you'll consider exploring the area ... by bicycle. In October 1995, Portland was selected by Bicycling Magazine as the most bicycle-friendly city in the United States. So, how did we get there?

Portland's first bicycle plan was developed in 1973 by a residents' task force. The effort led to the creation of the Portland Office of Transportation's Bicycle Program (one of the country's oldest) and the Bicycle Advisory Committee, a group of residents appointed by the city council to advise on all matters related to bicycling. The bicycle is a key means of transportation for thousands of Portland residents.

More than half of Portland residents own a bicycle and ride at least occasionally. Bicycle use is rising rapidly. The bicycle share of trips is about 2 percent in Portland and 3.3 percent in the inner, more dense areas of town. While only 200 cyclists per day were recorded on the Hawthorne Bridge in 1975, by 1995 this number climbed to 2,000.

Many aspects of Portland encourage bicycle use. Portland's current bikeway network consists of more than 150 miles of bicycle lanes, bicycle boulevards and off-street paths. Our entire bus fleet is equipped with bicycle racks. During a recently recorded one-year period, close to 80,000 bicycles were taken on our buses and light rail.

Cyclists can park at more than 1,400 publicly installed bicycle racks or rent longer term space at one of 190 bicycle lockers. Bicycle commuters can take advantage of "Bike Central," stations which provide showers, changing facilities and long-term bicycle storage.

The energy and commitment of many organizations and businesses improve the bicycle environment. Portland's Parks Bureau and Metro Greenspaces Program are installing dozens of miles of off-street paths, such as the Springwater Corridor and Eastside Esplanade.

More than a dozen bicycle shops provide crucial services to Portland cyclists. There is an impressive array of advocacy, education and riding groups, including the Bicycle Transportation Alliance, Community Cycling Center, Critical Mass, Kaiser Permanente's Injury Prevention Program, Portland United Mountain Pedalers, Portland Wheelman Touring Club and the Yellow Bike Program.

Finally, a diverse coalition of educators, administrators, bicycle advocates and government agencies are working to make bicycling a more viable and safe option for children.

Others involved include Portland Public Schools, parents, educators, the Community Cycling Center (teaching children bicycle safety, repair and riding skills) and numerous groups to increase helmet use.

Bicycles require a small fraction of the investment needed for cars and reduce wear to road surfaces. Twelve bikes can fit into one auto parking space, using valuable space more efficiently. Bicycling provides mobility for those who are too young to drive and saves lots of money.

Cycling short distances is good exercise; cyclists arrive at work alert and invigorated. Many daily trips are as fast - or faster - by bicycle and it's much easier to park. And cycling is thoroughly enjoyable. Once you get started, it's hard to stop.

For more information on bicycling in Portland, contact the City of Portland Bicycle Program 503/823-CYCL (2935). Their Web page address is: www.trans.ci.portland.or.us/traffic_management/bicycle_program.