Biking Saves Money!

Investment in Bicycling and Walking Will Save Billions: Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Releases Active Transportation for America Report to Congress, Rep. Oberstar

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) presents today the "Active Transportation for America" report to Congress via Rep. James Oberstar (D-Minn.), who serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The report quantifies—for the first time—the national benefits of bicycling and walking. Putting figures to facts, the report documents the transportation, energy, climate, public health, and economic benefits of bicycling and walking. Never before has the case been made so clearly that relatively modest federal investment in bicycling and walking can save Americans tens of billions of dollars each year. The report compiles success stories from communities across America to show the potential to realize these benefits. ..

For full report: http://www.railstotrails.org/newsandpubs/news/press/pressreleases/20081020_DC_ActiveTransportationReport.html

Tour de Lights is coming!

Sorry for being out of touch--I am just getting back from maternity leave. I saw a lot of you at the Neighborhood Bike Ride, which was a great success. More than 250 people came out for that. Hopefully we will have that many for the second annual Tour de Lights.

Wed., Dec 17

7 p.m.

(bike safety checks from 6 - 7 p.m.)

Krutch Park, next to Market Square

Experience the beautiful holiday lights of Island Home and downtown by bicycle. Meet at Krutch Park for the Tour de Lights, sponsored by the City of Knoxville and the TPO Bicycle Program. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided after the ride by the Mast General Store. The ride will be less than 6 miles and does not have many hills.

Prizes will be awarded to ride participants for best decorated person, best decorated bicycle and best decorated helmet. Riders should get creative with specialty bike lights or battery-powered LED lights. All ages are welcome. Helmets are required along with a white front light visible from 500 feet and a red rear reflector. Rear lights are recommended.

www.knoxtrans.org for more info