November 20, 2008 -- Michigan ranks 12th in the nation for bicycle friendliness, according to a recent survey administered by the League of American Bicyclists. Bicycle friendliness is closely connected with perceptions of a high quality of life. According to the League, encouraging bicycling is an effective way to address the challenges of climate change, traffic congestion, rising obesity rates and soaring fuel prices, as well as improve traffic safety and economic development.
"Michigan's high ranking was achieved through the many partnerships we have in our state between state and local government, nonprofit and private agencies, and the thousands of dedicated citizens and bicyclists across the state," said Joshua DeBruyn, bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). "Many Michigan communities have incorporated bike lanes on local roads and constructed hundreds of miles of bike trails with assistance from numerous state departments and nonprofit resources. This creates an infrastructure that encourages bicycling."
Michigan's overall ranking was based on six survey categories: Education and Encouragement - 7th, Infrastructure - 8th (tied), Evaluation and Planning - 14th (tied), Enforcement - 15th (tied), Policies and Programs - 19th (tied), and Legislation - 35th (tied).
The survey was completed by MDOT with information provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Community Health, State Police, Management and Budget, Secretary of State, and the League of Michigan Bicyclists.
For more details on the survey, go to the League's Web site at www.bikeleague.org/programs/bicyclefriendlyamerica/.
To explore all of Michigan's trails, go to www.michigantrails.org and visit the "Michigan Trail Map & Directory" or the Trails Finder.
To learn more about biking in Michigan and to order or view regional bike maps, go to the MDOT biking Web site at www.michigan.gov/mdot-biking.
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