Cycling Touches Everyone

Executive Director of the Texas Bicycle Coalition Robin Stallings and Local Outreach Coordinators Joyce Cunningham and Fernando Martinez recently met with Amarillo Mayor Debra McCartt.

During the meeting Mayor McCartt shared with the TBC staff her vision for a bicycle-friendly city. Mayor McCartt’s vision is already showing signs of progress with Phase I of the Hike and Bike Master Plan nearly completed. Included in Phase I are new bike lanes for elementary schools. Ideas as to how the lanes should be introduced were discussed with the mayor.

Currently in the planning phase is a “Bike with the Mayor” event which will introduce the Bike Texas Safe Routes to School Program. Rod Schroeder, Superintendent for Amarillo Independent School District, approved the Safe Routes to School Program last month. Thanks goes to AISD Program Director Denise Blanchard whose assistance was instrumental in obtaining approval for the program.

Local farmer, PTA leader and Bicycle Advocate Steve Hayward gave TBC staff an expert tour of the historic Rock Island Rail Trail and the Phase I bike plan. During the tour, Hayward said he saw the potential for two excellent bicycle trails for Amarillo.

Later, TBC staff visited with Larry Offerdahl, Director of Parks and Recreation. Mr. Offerdahl updated them on the Hike and Bike Master Plan, comparing Amarillo to various other cities within the US that have functioning bicycle-friendly plans.

Amarillo City engineers were diligent in answering questions regarding the City of Amarillo’s Hike and Bike Master Plan. While attending a meeting of the Hike and Bike Development Committee, TBC staff was able to see first-hand some of the methods necessary to proceed with a comprehensive plan for all.

Texas Bicycle Coalition wishes to extend our gratitude and appreciation to all involved for their cooperation in helping the Amarillo area become a Bike-Friendly Amarillo.