Jasmine Goldband | Trib Total Media

Dedicated funding needed to increase Pittsburgh’s bicycle commuter rate

By Megan Harris

Ambitious Pittsburgh leaders clambering for a spot among the nation’s most bicycle-friendly cities point to European cities as the ultimate inspiration.

The sharp ring of bicycle bells dashing across crowded Danish streets. Dutch canals enveloped by dusty, worn-in commuter bikes instead of cars. Children traversing urban alleyways without supervision or fear.
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FUNDED TO EVOLVE
Twenty years ago, Pittsburgh was “kind of the worst” for bicyclists, Peduto said. “Today we’re among the top 30 cities in the nation, but you know what? We can do better.”

With Bike Pittsburgh, a nonprofit advocacy group, the city installed 70 miles of on-street bicycle infrastructure, established bike corrals and valet services at city festivals, and freed up 7,000 bicycle parking spaces.

Leaders spent $22 million in building 20 miles of riverfront trails. Bike share stations and protected lanes are next, Peduto said.

Unlike larger, more bicycle-friendly cities such as Portland, Ore., and Minneapolis, Pittsburgh has no dedicated funding for projects.
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“We have the money,” Roberts said. “We just need a plan.”

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Not a member of BikePGH? Join today! We need you to add your voice! Bike Pittsburgh works to protect cyclist’s rights and promote the vision of making Pittsburgh a safer and more enjoyable place to live and to ride. For more info, check out: www.bikepgh.org/membership