A reader just pointed out to that the New York Times has mentioned Portland’s bike scene yet again in their Saturday edition.
The first time is was all about our “cult-like” allegiance to cyclocross racing and now they cite a new report from Atlanta that says our “pedestrian and biker friendly” city is the main reason for our top-five standing in the “battle” to attract “rare and desirable” 25-34 year olds to our city.
Check out this graphic that ran with the story, Cities Compete in Hipness Battle to Attract Young:
I have heard from numerous people that our bike-friendliness was a major factor in choosing to live in Portland. Now this article backs up that anecdotal evidence.
This is an important story for Portland bike advocates and bureaucrats to tell because “young hipsters” do much more than just help coffee shops and thrift stores thrive.
The secret is out: Portland’s bike friendly amenities attract smart and creative people who not only add to our city’s character, but also have a serious impact on our economy.
The article says 25-34 year olds are “increasingly viewed as the key to an economic future.”
It’s time for Portland (and other American cities) to stop seeing bike-friendly facilities as a “concession” to advocates and start seeing them as a top priority that deserves equitable consideration in every stage of transportation and traffic planning.