Introduction of National Bike Month Resolution

INTRODUCTION OF NATIONAL BIKE MONTH RESOLUTION -- (Extensions of Remarks - May 05, 2005)

SPEECH OF
HON. EARL BLUMENAUER
OF OREGON
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2005

Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a resolution in support of National Bike Month. The League of American Bicyclists has celebrated every May since 1956 as National Bike Month. With this resolution, Congress will recognize the enormous role bicycling has in our lives. This month provides an opportunity to promote the benefits of cycling, appreciate those in the cycling community, and to encourage bicycle safety.

Bicycling is one of the cleanest, healthiest, most efficient, and environmentally friendly modes of transportation that exists. It is the most efficient form of urban transportation in history. There are over 57 million adult cyclists in the United States, 5 million of whom choose to commute to work by bike. This transportation choice helps ease congestion on our roads and reduce environmental pollution while allowing cyclists to incorporate exercise into their everyday lives. In an age of high energy prices, overcrowded roads, and a growing obesity epidemic, biking is more important to the well being of our communities than ever before.

Communities throughout the Nation have reaped the positive benefits of biking. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, bicycles are second only to cars as a preferred mode of transportation. National Bike Month provides the opportunity to recognize the significant impact of this noble invention and to inform others of the healthy, environmental, efficient, and neighborhood-friendly form of transportation.

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