Photo by Luke Fritz

I am working on an endorsement questionnaire for a pedestrian/bicycling advocacy group.

When I think of bicycle facilities, the image that springs to my mind is something like the photo above. My thoughts flash back to the streets of central Cambridge, England, at 8:55 a.m. on weekdays during the academic year. Thousands of bicyclists converged on the lecture halls downtown, every one riding a registered vehicle. Many of us had taken a Cycling Proficiency/Accident Prevention course and test in school. In three years living and bicycling in Cambridge in the late 1970s, I don't recall hearing of a serious bike-auto collision. Car drivers and bicycle riders watched out for and respected each other. We shared the roads. Car and truck drivers recognized that without bicycle commuters, there would be much more congestion. Bicycle riders obeyed traffic signs and wore reflective clothing. Yeah, yeah, I know, "those were the days". But I've seen good bicycle and pedestrian facilities, experienced living in a city valuing and providing them. I know it can be done.

We are far from that scenario in Portland today. As I've asked "What would you like changed in Portland?" whle collecting $5 donations, in SW Portland by far the most prevalent answer is "Bike lanes!" and/or "Sidewalks!" Many people comment they would ride bikes and/or take the bus to work, if they could get to their destination safely. Portland's neighborhoods deserve adequate basic infrastructure. We will maintain our collective commitment to holding the Urban Growth Boundary only by providing urban services within it - throughout the city, not just in selected areas. A Big Picture goal of addressing global warming lacks meaning if kids can't walk to school, and folks can't bike to the local store.

My son took this photo in Oxford. It was taken during the summer, when there are fewer bikes.