“After 50 years of framing work around the automobile, retail analysts in both the private and public sectors are shifting to a new consensus: cars don’t spend money — people do.”
The quote above, taken from the report Protected Bike Lanes Mean Business, highlights a significant shift in thinking. People need access to our locally owned stores, whether getting there by foot, bicycle, wheelchair, bus, or personal vehicle. How can we balance each person’s transportation needs with municipal budgets and businesses’ bottom lines? Enter the bicycle.
There’s growing evidence that encouraging people to go by bicycle boosts the local economy. When done correctly, adding bicycle lanes and other cycling amenities can increase retail sales while decreasing parking pressures.
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“Bicycling is more than a practical, cost-effective solution to many municipal challenges,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists. “When local communities invest in making bicycling safer and a real transportation option for more people, the return on investment is clear for individuals and society at large — from cost-savings on public health to small businesses’ growth and more.”
While bicyclists tend to buy smaller amounts when they shop, bicyclists visit each store more often and spend more money overall compared to those who commute by automobile. Also, providing space for bicycle parking costs municipalities less than vehicle parking. A dozen bicycles can fit into one parking space designed for a vehicle.
May is National Bicycle Month, the perfect time to amplify the benefits of bicycling and take more bike rides. Whether you ride for fun, fitness, or take essential trips to work or shop, be part of the movement for safer streets, connected communities, a healthier planet, and happier people.
“Life is better for everyone when more people ride bikes,” said Bill Nesper. “We’re making biking an easier and safer option for more people, because when more people bike, people are happier and healthier, our communities are safer and friendlier, and our planet is greener. Together, we can help more people know the joy of bicycling.”
The American Independent Business Alliance and partners throughout North America will celebrate Bicycling Means Business Month in May, promoting the connections between bicycling and healthy local economies.
Kick off Bike Month at the Kiwanis Kool Wheels Event at the Keene Recreation Center on May 3, from 10 am to 12 pm. Kool Wheels is a free family event where kids of all ages can select a new bicycle helmet (while supplies last) and learn about bike safety.
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Next, get ready to pedal during National Ride a Bike Day on Sunday, May 4. Go for a spin around your neighborhood or to your favorite destination. It’s also Star Wars “May the Fourth Be With You” Day, so here’s a fun idea: Ride to the Colonial Theatre in Keene for their Star Wars Fest. The film Star Wars starts at 11 am, followed by The Empire Strikes Back at 2 pm, and ends with Return of the Jedi at 5 pm. Day passes are available.
Wednesday, May 7, is Bike & Roll to School Day. Over 1,350 schools will participate, calling attention to making routes to schools safer and kids more active. Discover more about Bike & Roll to School Day.
Also, whether you’re a parent, teacher, or advocate, find out how to help grow bicycling education in schools.
Haven’t ridden in a while? Then, register for the Smart Cycling Class on May 10, 12 – 2 pm at the Keene Public Library. Learn and practice safe cycling techniques.
Finally, add this movie to your queue: The Street Project. Get inspired by efforts to keep walkers, riders, and drivers safer by redesigning streets. You’ll hear from author and city planner, Jeff Speck, who spoke in Keene in 2023, plus many others. You can watch the documentary for free here.
Learn more about the film.
Enjoy a series of free guided bicycle tours along our state’s picturesque rail trails called Tour De New Hampshire. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, organizers designed these weekly tours to celebrate the joy of cycling and showcase the natural beauty of New Hampshire’s incredible rail trail system.
Stay tuned for details.
On June 7, enjoy The Tour de Francestown, a beautiful 25- or 50-mile marked course through Francestown and neighboring towns presented by the Francestown Old Meeting House. Registration fees include on-course rest stops and food and drink at the finish line.
Register Today!
Make your bicycle rides count by logging your miles in the Love to Ride app. This new app will help communities make better bicycle infrastructure decisions using real-time, crowdsourced information. Rate your comfort level all along your route. You may even win a prize! Download the Love to Ride app at Love to Ride’s website.
The Bike League’s Bicycle Friendly America program celebrates places that are more welcoming to people who bike. There are currently 480 Bicycle Friendly Communities, 1,480 Bicycle Friendly Businesses, and 220 Bicycle Friendly Universities. Locally, the City of Keene, Keene State College, Monadnock Food Co-op, and Keene Family YMCA received BFA designation. Congrats! View the complete database.
Let’s get rolling!
The Local Crowd Monadnock - Keene, NH
