I’m the subject of “15 Minutes With…” in the current issue of Community Press Press (scroll until you see my picture because, sadly, the CFP isn’t hip to the whole web thing yet).
The writer, Sarah Bennett, is a student of mine. This is a Q & A feature that, unfortunately, doesn’t demonstrate her ability, which I know to be considerable. The transcription is supposed to be verbatim — hence the discourse bumps.
Something I should have said but failed to (although you’ll find it between the lines): Wow! This whole utility bicycling thing is really really easy in Springfield!
OK, not for everyone. Not for those folks who’ve chosen to live in far-off suburban developments. Not for those with disabilities. I’m aware of the list.
But for many who live in Springfield’s urban core, folks, really, this is easy. Easy I tell you. Easy because:
- We have flat terrain.
- We have a grid street pattern.
- We have slow traffic speeds downtown.
- We have a rather extensive bicycle route system that’s about to get better with the addition of wayfinding signs and sharrows.
- We have a population of respectful drivers. Just type “honk” into my blog search to find my last honk report. I report all honks here. They are rare. And I’m out there in traffic every day.
- We have city officials, planners, and traffic engineers who want to do the right thing.
- We have a pleasant climate most of the year.
- We have educational programs and other sources of help.
- We have great local bicycle shops (re: sidebar) with helpful, knowledgeable employees.
- We have the STAR Team fighting the good fight.
And, finally, there are many people like me willing to help.
Remember, it’s not all or nothing. You can make a big difference in your life just one day per week.