Last week we were thrilled to visit our advocacy partner Oaks & Spokes in Raleigh, NC. Just mention the name Oaks & Spokes to any locals who appreciate safe on street bike routes and your certain to be met with a big smile. The organization, which started in 2012 has a history of getting lots done with a handful of dedicated rotating volunteers, a supportive community, and more recently some part-time staff. Looking to expand, their mission the next goal is to bring on a full-time Executive Director. Most recently Sara Ellis is the driving force behind the effort. A planner by trade, whose passion is building community, Sara sees bikes as an important building block for making cities and communities better. Her affable nature, easy smile, and dedication makes her an excellent champion for the cause. If you’re in Raleigh October 30th sign up to attend Crank For A Cause their annual ride/fundraiser and membership drive.
During our visit we met with businesses and the City of Raleigh to discuss how to make sure bike parking is done right, both long-term (two or more hours) and short-term (less than two hours). We learned about the role of Go Triangle who provides regional public transportation to the rapidly growing research triangle anchored by Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
Each city across the country forges its own unique path in figuring out how to address its bike parking needs. Inevitably it’s a partnership in some configuration of government and a determined staff, political leadership, innovative entrepreneurs, and committed advocates, not to mention a supportive public whose encouragement is essential along the way, whether that’s just utilizing the bike parking and/or making publicly known their appreciation on social media or kind notes to those instrumental in making things happen. Lots of people work tirelessly on these types of initiatives, but usually receive very little credit or recognition. If you’re a bicyclist who relies on good bike parking perfectly located, you know how valuable it is because of the frustration we feel when it’s not there. It’s not to be taken for granted.
We took a moment to be sure to celebrate bike parking with a newly installed fully custom bike rack at the Brookside Bodega. The real-estate developer designed the rack in-house making it look like a truck, reminding everyone how many bikes can fit in a space the size of a pick-up truck. Truly, it was a moment worthy of a ribbon cutting. Raleigh is a beautiful city with lots of little surprises along it’s bike paths and trails. As it continues to experience extraordinary growth the bicycle will be key in keeping Raleigh accessible, charming, and community oriented.
