Our cycling community is eagerly awaiting the return of an enhanced Columbus Bicycle Advisory Committee. The previous body has been dormant for several years and there are many reasons and opinions regarding the dormancy. Rather than waste energy in those issues, let’s get excited and supportive of the upcoming Committee(s).

The Columbus Bicentennial Bikeways Plan has called for the re-creation of a Bike Advisory Committee, under the structure of the existing Transportation & Pedestrian Commission. The primary charge of the (sub)Committee would be the assurance and oversight of the implementation of the Plan, and a body to vet any deviations from the Plan. We are fortunate that the Plan is comprehensive and specific; it provides an easy guide for an oversight Committee. Yes, we very much need a group of competent bicyclists and planner/engineers, to focus on the specifics of making Columbus more bicycle friendly!

As a member of the Columbus Transportation & Pedestrian Commission, I can report that the details of the re-creation of a Bicycle Advisory Subcommittee are well in the works. Legislative steps must be taken to develop this enhanced Bicycle group, and this takes time. Its never as simple as we think. The good news is that the Transportation & Pedestrian Commission is using this legislative opportunity to update other roles and responsibilities of the Commission (beyond just creating a bicycle Advisory Subcommittee. After 3 years of dormancy for the Bike Advisory group…another month won’t hurt.

The additional good news is that surrounding municipalities like Dublin and Westerville are joining the trend, and building Bike Advisory Committees. Dublin’s Bicycle Task Force was appointed last month, and the first meeting was held last week. Westerville is considering the development of an advisory Group, and the first charette meeting is Oct 28th. More here.

Consider Biking is facilitating the discussions among all the surrounding municipalities to coordinate the vision and resources to create a bicycle friendly REGION. One of our strategic goals is that “Central Ohio be recognized for its world class regional network that provides infrastructure, education, safety, comfort and convenience for all bicyclists.” Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices among our energetic regional municipalities is the first step toward achieving that goal.

So, won’t you volunteer to become engaged in a local Bike Advisory Group? Join us in Westerville on the 28th, and/or attend the next Columbus Transportation & Pedestrian Commission on November 12 at 3:30 pm at 109 Front St. Let’s keep the movement with Bike Advisory Groups!