Bike books on display at the North Portland Library.
(Photo: Josh Berezin)

If we want the next generation to grow up with a fresh perspective on how we get around, then storytime is a powerful place to start. As a bike geek and dad of three I’m always on the lookout for fun children’s books that show cycling in a positive and fun light, so I was thrilled to hear about the City of Portland’s new “Bike to Books” initiative.

It’s a super-smart way to encourage more neighborhood biking and reading among kids.

Bike to Books is part of PDX Bike Month. Also in on the deal is Multnomah Country Library and Metro.

Here’s what they’ve put together: Everyone who bikes to the library will get a free bike light courtesy of Metro; PBOT’s marketing team will give out free bike maps and share family biking info; and the libraries will offer 18 bike-themed storytime sessions at branches throughout the city.
[Read more…]

Bureau of Transportation staff have had their say about grumblings in the community that Portland doesn’t deserve its “Platinum” bicycle-friendly status*.

Now it’s City Hall’s turn.

In an statement to kick off National Bike Month in Portland, PBOT spokesperson Diane Dulken said Portland Mayor Charlie Hales will announce next week that May 10-16th will be Active Transportation Week in Portland. The proclamation was written by PBOT Commissioner Steve Novick and will cite, “Portland as a Platinum bicycle-friendly city, Sunday Parkways’ popularity and that bicycling has changed commute choices, reducing single-commuter trips from 64 percent to 57 percent since 2000.”
[Read more…]