Lexington Named Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists

The League of American Bicyclists Wednesday named Lexington a 2014 bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community, adding Lexington to the list of local communities that have received the award, including Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, and Arlington. There are now 303 Bicycle Friendly Communities in 48 states, including 7 in Massachusetts. The Bronze BFC award recognizes Lexington’s commitment to improving conditions for bicycling through investment in bicycling promotion, education programs, infrastructure and pro-bicycling policies. 

The application process was coordinated by Bicycle Advisory Committee chair Peggy Enders, who worked with Town staff and bicycle advocates over the winter to assemble the data needed as part of the comprehensive assessment process required of applicants. 

“The application process was essentially an exercise in benchmarking Lexington’s accomplishments in becoming a more bike friendly community,” Enders said. “There are a number of areas where the town has accomplished a great deal and other areas where there is room for improvement. It would be wonderful to receive a higher level designation in the future; the bronze level award is a great start that demonstrates Lexington’s growing commitment to bicycles and those who ride them.” 

“Making this healthy and active transportation mode safe and easy is of growing importance,” said League President Andy Clarke in his announcement of this year’s BFC awards. “We’re excited that Lexington has made the smart and vital investments to become a designated Bicycle Friendly Community.” 

The BFC program is revolutionizing the way communities evaluate their quality of life, sustainability and transportation networks, while allowing them to assess their progress toward improving their bicycle-friendliness. There are now 303 BFCs in 48 states across America. The Bronze BFC award recognizes Lexington’s commitment to improving conditions for bicycling through investment in bicycling promotion, education programs, infrastructure and pro-bicycling policies. 

An award ceremony is being planned to take place later in the year. 

Last year, Minuteman Bikeway in Lexington was named sixth best urban bike path in America.