The answer might surprise you. According to a CNN study, Utah ranks 5th in the US for friendliest bike state! Utah was ranked 8th best in 2014. This increase is because Utah has implemented plans, changed policy, and received funding to make the state accommodating for cyclists.
The League of American Bicyclists, ranked Utah for 5th friendliest bike state for a number of reasons. The League found that Utah ranks high compared to other states in:
- Enforcing bicycle laws to promote safety.
- Creating laws that are in favor of cyclists.
- Implementing programs, such as the GREENbike, to grow the cycling community.
- Educating the youth about proper bicycle safety.
According to the study, Utah has implemented several plans and policies that focus on making cycling more friendly and accessible. For example, Salt Lake City recently passed and implemented the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan, which plans on, among other things, building bike lanes that are better protected from motor traffic. By 2035, Salt Lake City will have a 220 mile system of bike paths. It will cost as much as building a 1.3 mile long freeway.
Utah is also targeting those who don’t cycle. Legislators believe that if bicycle infrastructure was better, people who ordinarily drive, will ride their bike. A study showed that 50-60% of Salt Lake City residents would prefer to ride their bike, but conventional bike paths deter them. In order to help spur growth in the cycling population, Utah recently proposed a handful of programs. Some of these programs include:
- Social rides
- Route mapping
- Designated bike paths
- Bike-friendly business efforts (could include more businesses allowing bike-thru lanes at fast food restaurants)
Here are the top 10 bike-friendliest states in the US.
- Washington
- Minnesota
- Delaware
- Massachusetts
- UtahÂ
- Oregon
- Colorado
- California
- Wisconsin
- Maryland
You can review the entire list here.
As avid Utah cyclists, we are ecstatic about this news! We love seeing our state adapting to an incredible sport and a wonderful lifestyle. As attorneys, we appreciate the policies, programs, and laws that ensure that cyclists of all abilities can enjoy their ride safely. If you have ever been involved in an cycling accident, call us. We know first hand what its like to be involved in a cycling injury, and because of that, we are experts.