Graphic courtesy of StreetsBlogUSA.
- Bicycling to work can save time and money, improves fitness, and fights pollution and climate change.
- Many people are dependent on biking, walking, and public transportation to access their basic needs, and they deserve a safe and reliable network.
Mobility is necessary for a healthy economy. It’s a fact, however, that cars and trucks get top priority in transportation planning in this country. Fairfax County basically was built to facilitate personal car ownership and living without one can be very difficult.
But, our overreliance on motor vehicles has led to congestion and weak transportation systems that hobble mobility. Now there is an urgent need to encourage more people to bike and create a fairer transportation system that helps those who depend on biking, walking, and public transportation.
Sadly, 1 in 4 US adults and many in our area are unable to move regularly from place to place in a safe or timely manner because they lack the needed resources. In other words, they suffer from transportation insecurity, which has far-reaching effects on employment and schooling opportunities and even necessary errands such as grocery shopping. Transportation insecurity is a cause of social isolation, financial debt, and gaps in local prosperity.
Courtesy Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization
Long-term government investment for bike commuting and active travel can boost economic growth while supporting those suffering from transportation insecurity. FABB is using its annual appeal to ask for support for our efforts to encourage bicycling by making it safer and trouble-free.
We need to address the fact that, for many workers, the geography of our suburban areas creates lengthy commutes that may make bicycling seem impractical. FABB already is fighting hard for the development of multimodal transportation options that facilitate riders’ combining biking and bike share with buses, trains, and even cars. FABB also advocates for adequate bicycle parking and encourages employers to provide shower and locker facilities to encourage bike commuting and its benefits for company bottom lines. In addition, we help riders identify the best routes to arrive quickly and safely.
With your donations and participation, FABB will continue to press government and transportation departments for more equitable transportation options, protected bike lanes, connected trail and bike path networks, and strong traffic law enforcement to make biking safer.
