Prescott has earned many accolades in 2017, including being named a great place to live and having its downtown recognized as a great destination. In its latest honor, Prescott has been recognized as a great place to ride your bike.
In fact, it has earned the bronze status by the League of American Bicyclists, which provides a road map, hands-on assistance and recognition to those who make bicycling a real transportation and recreation option for all people.
“Prescott is basically one of 400 communities in the nation with this type of designation and one of 13 in Arizona,” said John Heiney, community outreach manager for the City of Prescott. “The bronze represents a commitment to improving conditions for cycling through investment, bicycle promotion, education programs and infrastructure.”
Heiney said city officials were pleasantly surprised by the honor.
“It was the first time applying. It is nice that it gives us recognition and the opportunity to improve to silver or gold status,” he said.
The organization’s website gave Prescott high marks for providing roads and facilities, but suggested it needs improvements in getting bicycle education into schools and adopting bicycle friendly laws and ordinances.
Heiney said the designation came at a good time because a new committee has been formed to oversee bicycling and transportation. The committee will review issues and offer direction for the City Council pertaining to traffic and cycling, he said.
Cina McConaughy and Kate Phelan, co-owners of Soul Ride Bike Shop, believe the new designation will help everyone and that their customers love living in Prescott and enjoy riding all the amazing trails so close to town.
“We are so fortunate to have customers that support our vision of getting more people on bikes,” said McConaughy.
Phelan, co-owner of Soul Ride, a woman-owned mountain bike business said their mission is to give everyone the opportunity to ride bikes.
“We are passionate about creating an inclusive bike culture that mirrors the beautiful trails Prescott offers,” she said.
Heiney said the city is up for the improvement. “We are doing okay, but are making the commitment to improve.” QCBN
By Patty McCormac, QCBN
Leave a Reply