Hey folks… here’s a brief update on what’s been happening recently with A-B bikes…
At our last formal meeting held June 24th… unfortunately our meeting was a bit shorter than expected as we got started late because of the weather (lots of storms that day!) There were some new folks so we spent a decent chunk of our time doing (re)introductions, bringing folks up to speed on the the last meeting and what we’ve been doing since. We also spent some time discussing specific groups/projects, including our online map of bike parking/racks in A-B (thanks again to Zach!), interest in some organized rides, and youth initiatives.
Chris (R.) from Citizen School(s) at the Edison school is the lead on the bike apprenticeship program planned for the fall, and is coordinating the group of volunteers from A-B bikes who are interested in being instructors or otherwise supporting the apprenticeship. He was also soliciting bike and helmet donations, but I understand from him and Nicole that since our last meeting the City of Boston has agreed to lend a number of bikes for the program. See the postings on our website under “Youth” for more detailed information and updates.
Zach’s Rax - thanks again to Zach for his efforts and time and creating the annotated, interactive google map of bike racks in A-B! We’re still looking for a volunteer(s) to complete the small portion of Allston that Zach did not cover… please post on our website to let us know if you’re interested in helping out!
Nicole was unable to attend our last meeting, but provided us with an update on what Boston Bikes (City of Boston) is doing/planning that would be of interest to A-B bikers… The biggest projects she is working on that effect A-B include: installing racks, pushing for bike lanes, creating the Boston Bikes map and launching Bike Fridays (cycling convoys plus breakfasts on City Hall) similar to Bike Week. Here’s more detail from Nicole:
INSTALLING RACKS - Nicole is still accepting any specific requests and anybody from A-B bikes who wants to do so should send her a request. She needs the street address and shop in particular. To make a request, all you have to do is send back the appropriate form(s) (provided by Nicole and to be posted on our website soon - in the meantime please feel free to email Chris D. to get an electronic copy).
BIKE LANES Nicole’s identifying requests for roads that right now could fit a bike lane with minimal work (i.e. just adding lines). The road needs to be at least 46 feet wide (if parking and 1 travel lane) and 68 if two travel lanes. Requests can be emailed directly to Nicole.
BIKE MAP – Nicole would love to have A-B bikers comment on the map draft we have and get their input. The best way to do this is at our next meeting. Nicole can bring a map and have people manually make comments.
BIKE FRIDAYS – Nicole has provided information regarding the event which will be posted separately under “news” and “events” on our website. Nicole would like A-B bikers’ help recruiting 3 ride leaders for the Allston convoy, plus our help in recruiting as many riders as possible for this ride. If A-B bikers are able/willing to flyer Allston/Brighton again (like we do for meetings, etc.), Nicole’s office can pay for the flyers and get them to us. The first “Bike Fridays” event is July 25th, the 2nd is August 22nd. Nicole is working on a police escort which will make the ride really cool!
You can contact Nicole at:
Nicole Freedman
Director of Bicycle Programs
One City Hall Square, Suite 932
Boston, MA 02201
617.429.8440
Nicole.Freedman.bra@CityofBoston.gov
That’s the update for now… stay tuned for more information about our next meeting and other events… and in the meantime, ride safe!
