Perimeter Bicycling Association of America
Submitted by:
Richard J. DeBernardis, President & Founder
After reading the recent report from RTA Board re: the 20-year transportation plan for the Pima County Community, Perimeter Bicycling Association of America, Inc. would like to highly endorse this plan for adoption by the voters of Pima County.
Perimeter Bicycling produces, directs and promotes El Tour de Tucson, the largest cycling event in the State of Arizona and 7th largest in America. “El Tour” started back in 1983 with its primary objective to develop our City and County into the leading cycling community in America. In order for Tucson/Pima County to achieve its goal of being the #1 bicycling community in America and reach the highest level of “bicycle Friendly community” designation, the Platinum Level, the RTA plan needs to be adopted.
This plan allows for the addition of 550 miles of new bicycle lanes including 38 miles of shared use paths with pedestrians, inline skaters, runners, etc. Another major feature of the RTA plan is approximately $50 Million is set aside for bicycle development and expansion, which is an unprecedented amount set aside for bicycle development in the history of our county. This clearly demonstrates a commitment from our county, not only to make us more bicycle friendly community, but also brings us closer to our primary goal of becoming recognized as the “wellness center” of America.
El Tour has a $16-$20 Million economic impact on the Pima County Community on Ride weekend; and contributes to an estimated $200-$250 Million Bicycle Industry impact throughout the year.
I highly encourage the voters of Pima County to adopt and pass this resolution to help make our community more bicycle friendly, and a safer and more attractive community for all – us and our visitors.
