Montana News

Bike Walk Montana hosting summit in Helena

Posted: Mar 15, 2013 11:01 PM by Evan Weborg - MTN News

HELENA - The Bike Walk Montana Summit is underway in Helena, looking into statewide transportation issues.

The educational meeting focuses on new trail systems, bicycle tourism, and networking - specifically fresh ideas on active commuting options in the Treasure State.

"How can we partner together, how can organizations partner, how can communities partner with the Montana Department of Transportation, so that bike facilities and sidewalks are put down with constructions, new ones created, and also how can communities tap into the funding that is available?" Melinda Barnes of Bike Walk Montana said.

The website for Bike Walk Montana states:

Our overriding goal is to make bicycling and walking safe and accessible for all. We believe:

Bicycling and walking are healthy, safe, economical, and fun.

Everyone should feel safe while walking or riding a bicycle.

Everyone has a right to transportation choices.

Bicycling and walking can be made safer through education, appropriate legislation, and improved infrastructure.

Bicycling and walking provide a simple and inexpensive way to promote public health, ease traffic congestion, and improve the environment.

Diversity is critical to developing a strong bicycling and walking community.