Safe Cycling Tips Worth Following

Harrison Park Community Center in Illinois is an example of how communities can embrace safe cycling. In January the center will host a special Bicycle Friendly America seminar! The Bicycle Friendly America program assists communities, business and universities to make bicycling a real transportation and recreation option! Topics will include exploring safe routes to ride, making cycling accessible for all, planning for bicycling as a viable transportation option, and teaching basic cycling safety practices. The center's resource guide is an excellent guide for families and individuals interested in safer, more enjoyable cycling. 

Mercer Island Bike Skills Area is Now Open

The city's new Bicycle Skills Area is now open at Deane’s Children’s Park, at 5701 Island Crest Way in the northeast corner of Island Crest Park.The BSA is a new skill-building course for riders of all ages. Designed by American Ramp Company, the BSA includes beginner and intermediate bike trails with jumps and other features, as well as a bicycle playground area for less-experienced riders
.

Mercer Island Seeking Replacement for Transportation Engineer

Lia Klien, the city's former Transportation Engineer, has taken a position with the City of Seattle. According to Jason Kitner, the city's Chief of Operations, the city is in the "midst of hiring a new Transportation Engineer now".   We wish Lia well in her new position. 

Dangerous Tracks on Burke-Gilman Trail To Be Paved Over

 Dangerous section of tracks in Ballard has been source of numerous accidents and law suits.  

Washington Bikes and Transportation for Washington Endorse MI Candidates

Transportation advocacy groups Washing Bikes and Transportation for Washington (T4WA) have endorsed Craig Reynolds, Wendy Welker, and David Rosenbaum for Mercer Island City Council.  

"Transportation for Washington endorses candidates throughout Washington State that support creating healthy, safe and affordable communities connected by transit, walking, and biking programs."

Washington Bikes's "endorsement and support are given to candidates who commit to or have a record of making communities better for people on bikes — through growing local economies, improving health outcomes, or creating safer streets and roadways. "

The East Lake Sammamish Trail is Now Open!

This 11-mile, paved trail is a critical part of the 44-mile Locks to Lakes Corridor from Golden Gardens Park in Ballard to the shores of Lake Sammamish and beyond. 

Bike Skills Area Construction Beginning Soon

Work is progressing on the Island's Bike Skills Area. The City's contractor, American Ramp Company, is ready to kick off construction this week to build the new Bike Skills Area at Deane’s Children’s Park. Islanders should be aware that parking areas at Deane’s and Island Crest Park will be impacted periodically throughout construction, and access to the playground areas at Deane’s is limited - please plan accordingly. You can learn more about this work and see the design for the new Bike Skills Area on Let’s Talk. Information about Mercer Islands Mountain Biking Team can be found here.