HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 04 2021 May is Bike Month Proclamation-ENMay is Bike Month Proclamation
WHEREAS: the bicycle is an economical, healthy, convenient, and environmentally sound
form of transportation and an excellent tool for enjoyment of Springfield’s scenic beauty that
allows community members to follow social distancing guidelines and travel for essential trips
and exercise purposes during the Covid-19 pandemic; and
WHEREAS: throughout the month of May, the residents of Springfield can experience the joys
of bicycling while supporting community safety by attending virtual events, wearing masks
while riding, maintaining safe distances from others, riding solo or with members of their own
household, choosing less busy times of day and less busy routes for rides; and
WHEREAS: community members can directly support the local economy by purchasing
bicycles from and taking bicycles to local bike shops by appointment while wearing masks; and
WHEREAS: bicycle industry sales and bicycle tourism contribute at least $440 million and
$400 million respectively to Oregon’s economy annually and generate over 7,000 jobs; and
WHEREAS: with the money saved from lower travel costs, people who ride bikes have more
money to spend at local businesses to help grow our local economy and support a vibrant
recovery from Covid-19; and
WHEREAS: creating a bicycling-friendly community has been shown to improve citizens’
health, well-being, and quality of life, grow the economy, improve traffic safety, support student
learning outcomes, and reduce pollution, congestion, and wear and tear on our streets; and
WHEREAS: the City of Springfield and Springfield Safe Routes to School are also promoting
greater public awareness of bicycle operation and safety education in an effort to reduce
collisions, injuries, and fatalities and improve health and safety for everyone on our streets;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean VanGordon, Mayor of the City of Springfield, do hereby proclaim
May 2021 is Bike Month in Springfield, Oregon and I challenge Springfield residents to get out
and ride on our regional paths, test ride an electric assist bike, or visit a local business by bike
during the month of May.
_________________________________
Sean VanGordon
Mayor