The Coloradoan: Bike Ambassador program will improve Fort Collins
Bicycle ambassadors will promote safe cycling, culture of cooperation
Apr. 9, 2012Â
With bicycling becoming a growing part of the Fort Collins culture, more efforts to boost awareness, safety and even a sense of shared responsibility are warranted for even the casual cyclists.
Those are just some of the benefits of the Bicycle Ambassador Program, in which trained volunteer advocates will ride Fort Collins’ streets and trails system to educate and assist residents about the benefits and rules regarding biking in our community. Trained in both bicycle regulations and conflict resolution, the ambassadors will reward those they see adhering to safety rules and gently remind those who are not of best practices when it comes to cycling and the rules of the road.
The Bike Ambassador Program addresses five different areas related to bicycling, including CSU, adults, children, community patrol and neighborhood open garages.
In addition to a team of volunteers making up the community patrol, residents can set up designated neighborhood garages in which bicyclists can access basic maintenance service and tools, such as tire repairs. The idea is not to compete with bike shops, but to encourage more people to ride bicycles.
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Education Coalition, city of Fort Collins and biking community are applauded for creating a hands-on, friendly approach toward bolstering the bicycling culture. Far too often, it’s easier to punish or criticize bicyclists rather than offer them the tools they need to ensure a safer ride for themselves and for motorists.
