As fall begins, there are still lots of activities and events of interest. With bicyclists doing less riding during colder weather and shorter days, fall and winter can actually be quite busy with advocacy events. And, of course, city budget season is just starting, which will give us a peek into what infrastructure and programs are likely to be funded (or not.)
Meetings and news this week
Monday
From UW Transportation, some information about more work on the Lakeshore Path near Limnology:
“Repairs to the retaining wall near the Hasler Laboratory of Limnology, including installation of new landscaping, pavement markings and a path counter, will begin September 14. Expect partial closures and detours in the area, with the heaviest traffic impacts occurring between October 12 and October 15. All bicyclists and pedestrians are asked to follow posted detour signage, be mindful of other path users and stay clear of construction fencing for everyone’s safety.”
Wednesday
Transportation Commission will meet at 5:00 pm online. You can find information on all agenda items, submit comments, register to speak at the meeting, or watch the meeting online at the link above.
The TC will be discussing the citywide Pedestrian Plan and the Safe Routes to School Strategic Plan. These are both important policy documents that will guide what is built, how infrastructure is built, and how walking (and biking) is prioritized for many years. The pedestrian plan was last updated nearly 30 years ago. The Safe Routes to School Strategic Plan will guide policy and plans for the next 10 years.
Also on the TC agenda is the underpass of the WSOR tracks that run next to Old Middleton Rd west of Whitney Way. This underpass would connect Old Middleton Rd with Craig Ave (off University Ave) and the path next to the UW Digestive Health Center. The underpass will be built; the only question is the exact design and route.
TC will also be considering feedback from the Board of Public Works on the planned Rusk Ave path that will connect Rusk Ave to Rimrock Rd north of the Beltline.
Friday
Park(ing) Day. While not directly a bike event, Madison Bikes is a partner for the local celebration of this annual, worldwide event that invites us to look at how we use street parking and think about what else could be in that space. Bike racks? Protected bike lanes? Restaurant seating? Trees? Benches?
Our friends at Strong Towns Madison will be taking over a parking spot on Williamson St to demonstrate that curb space doesn’t have to be only for storing cars. If you’d like to join them, drop by the Madison Greenhouse Labs at 1370 Williamson St between 11 am and 8 pm. More info can be found on the Strong Towns projects page.
Community events this week
You can find more information for these events – time, location, target audience, etc. – on the Madison Bikes Community Calendar.
Tuesday: Fix a front wheel flat workshop at the University Bicycle Resource Center
Tuesday: Madison Women’s Cycling Club Ride
Wednesday: Motorless Motion Taco Ride
Friday: Pick Me Up at the Border
Sunday: Freewheel open house at Neighborhood House
Reminders of upcoming events and deadlines
Bicycle Film Festival is Oct 1 at the Barrymore. While you can get tickets the day of the show, we strongly recommend buying them in advance. It’s cheaper, and it avoids standing in line at the box office, worrying about whether you are going to miss the first film.
October 2 is the deadline to apply to be on the Madison Bikes board of directors. You can find the application form here. If you would like to nominate someone other than yourself, please forward this post/email to them and ask them to apply. More information regarding serving on the board is available here. This is a great opportunity to step up and help move cycling forward in Madison.
Oct 4 is the Ride for Your Life. Join us as we remember those who were lost to traffic violence and work towards specific legislative and policy proposals for a safer future.
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!
