Although we are deep in winter and low-ridership season, there are always opportunities to meet other bicyclists and learn about groups in the area. This week brings several of these, with GearShift Gathering, the Brazen Dropouts Bike Swap, and two chances to learn to work on your bike.
Not too much going on with city meetings, but there are some follow-up activities from meetings last week. And we now know who will be running for Madison Common Council and Dane County Board. As the candidates are out campaigning, it might be a good time to ask them about issues.
Week in review
Beltline presentation and comments to WisDOT
On Wednesday, the Transportation Commission was asked to provide input to city staff to shape the city’s comments to Wisconsin DOT. You can see the WisDOT-provided slides online.
Although we had many public comments and a robust discussion at the meeting, this is a state-lead project. City staff emphasized that comments need to be submitted to WisDOT to be included in the public record. We urge anyone that wants to weigh in to submit comments via the WisDOT website.
There are many proposed connections, both along and across the Beltline, that are included in the documents that would benefit connectivity for bicyclists. But it’s unclear how many of these would actually be built or paid for with state funding. There are also some significant capacity expansions and safety infrastructure proposed, some of which would require removal of existing housing and commercial buildings.
The deadline to submit comments has been extended until the end of the month. You can find further information and how to submit comments on the WisDOT project page.
East High students help map safe routes
Members of the East Bike Repair Club met with Toole Design Group Thursday to give student input on a collaborative transportation design project with the City of Madison, MMSD, and the Wisconsin Bike Federation. The goal is to improve student transportation safety to and from East High School with a focus on 4th street from East Washington to East Johnson. They also looked at BRT use and bicyclist and pedestrian safety.
The week ahead
Monday CORP will host a clinic at Slow Roll on Monona Dr to teach you how to do simple adjustments to get the saddle, bars, brakes adjusted to be in the right position, tire pressure suggestions based on your setup, and shock adjustments. Registration is required.
Wednesday, the Queer Bike Ride will host its monthly ride. All bodies welcome. The ride is at a party pace and leaves from Law Park at 6:00 pm
Friday, from 4:00-6:30 pm is the GearShift Gathering, at Bikes for Kids Wisconsin space on Coyne Ln. This is a chance to meet representatives of local bike non-profits, including Madison Bikes and others, and build community. More information can be found via the Facebook event.
Saturday, the Brazen Dropouts Bike Swap is at the Alliant Energy Center, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. This is a chance to buy both new and used bikes, bike equipment, parts, accessories, and clothing. There’s always stuff for other outdoor activities, like hiking, camping, skiing, and generally being an outdoor person. There are over 150 vendors and non-profit booths, and you’re sure to find something you want.
Sunday, there is an open shop at Neighborhood House, 31 S Mills St, noon-4:00 pm. Bring your bike or work on donated bikes at Freewheel’s Open Shop. Experienced instructors are here to help.
All skill levels welcome from beginner to pro. Everyone’s a learner, everyone’s a teacher.
Job opportunity
Wisconsin Bike Fed is hiring an Education Coordinator for Dane and Rock Counties. This is a part-time position most of the year, with up to 40 hours in summer. The position includes leading coordination for adult programs in both counties as well as seasonal responsibilities as an instructor in the Wisconsin Bike Fed’s existing youth education and Safe Routes to Schools programs in Dane County. If you or someone you know are interested, you can find more information on the Bike Fed page.
As always, you can find an overview of all bike events on our Community Bike Calendar. Email us at info@madisonbikes.org to add your events. And if you value our newsletter and other work, consider donating to Madison Bikes. For construction updates, check out the city’s Bike Madison page.
Thanks to our sponsors who make our events possible!
