Missoula ranked among top bicycle friendly cities

Forums:

I am sure this is already well known to those of you who dwell there, but I just learnt from Metaefficient that Missoula was ranked among the top five bicycle friendly towns/small cities in the nation. His description:

"Located in western Montana, the town of Missoula (pop. 67,000) has operated a bike/pedestrian city office for over 25 years. Home to the University of Montana, the town recently opened a bicycle and pedestrian bridge linking the city center with the campus and 2 major bike paths. Missoula boasts a 5.64% bicycle mode share. And, yes, cycling continues even in the winter due to the town’s dedicated plows for bike lanes and bike paths. Other bike innovations include covered bike racks, bicycle detection at intersections, and Bicycle Ambassadors that teach traffic safety. The Missoula school district includes bike safety and skills as part of the physical education curriculum. The League of American Bicyclists has given the town of Missoula, Montana a silver status in bike-friendliness."

Way to go, Missoula!

~ Matthew N., Southern transplant

Paul and Bob Giordano of Free Cycles talk about the shop in this podcast.

They talk about Missoula's rank in bike cities.

Missoula is an amazing place for biking, I agree. I wish, however, the riding on the sidewalk situation could be "friendlier" to all involved. Too many accidents between motorists and sidewalk cyclists, unaware/unsuspecting from both parties involved.

There is a great bicycle safety video, from the 60's, called One Who Got Fat. Check it out - a Missoulian (who shall remain anonymous) is one of the monkeys!