As 2023 winds down, we at FABB are reflecting on a year marked by significant achievements that underscore this week’s fundraising theme “Wheels of Change” for our annual appeal. Our efforts have been a testament to how strategic advocacy, community involvement, and your unwavering support as a member, donor, or volunteer can bring tangible improvements to the bicycling infrastructure and culture in our community.
A Milestone in Policy: Bike Parking in Zoning Ordinance
A highlight of this year’s progress was the culmination of FABB’s work to ensure the inclusion of relevant bike parking guidance in the county’s new zoning ordinance. This is a huge step forward in integrating bicycling into Fairfax’s urban and suburban fabric, ensuring that new developments consider the needs of cyclists. It’s a change that speaks volumes about our growing recognition as a bike-friendly community.
Celebrating Trail Openings and Groundbreakings
Our persistent advocacy efforts bore fruit with the opening of the Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Trail (Grist Mill Trail) and the I-66 Trail. These trails are more than just paths; they are lifelines for our community, providing safe, accessible routes for commuters and recreational cyclists alike. The groundbreaking of Reston’s Wiehle Avenue W&OD Trail Bridge marked another milestone, promising to enhance connectivity and safety.
Fostering Community through Events and Education
In our mission to build a vibrant biking community, FABB actively partnered with others in hosting the Tour de Mt Vernon, Tour de Hunter Mill, and Tysons Cherry Blossom rides. These events not only celebrated our love for cycling but also showcased the diverse landscapes of our region. Our Adult Learn to Ride Bike classes broke down barriers, empowering new cyclists with the skills and confidence to join our two-wheeled community. Participation in Bike to Work Day and Bike to Market Week further amplified our commitment to sustainable transportation.
Advocacy in Action
Our advocacy in 2023 covered a spectrum of projects essential to enhancing our cycling infrastructure. From the proposed Braddock Road Shared Use Trail to Mount Vernon Trail Rehabilitation, each project we championed was a step towards a safer and more accessible biking environment. We actively engaged in discussions on including bicycle facilities on the proposed I-495 Southside Project and advocated for more bike lanes and safety measures as part of the annual VDOT/FCDOT summer repaving and restriping program.
Looking Ahead
As we bike forward together into the future, FABB remains committed to being at the forefront of advocating for a bike-friendly Fairfax County. The Wheels of Change continue to turn, driven by your support and our collective efforts. Together, we are not just cycling; we are shaping the future of transportation and community in our region.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Help keep the momentum going by donating/joining now and by contacting us at [email protected] to volunteer!
