Harrisburg, July 1, 2016 − Already ranked as the most bike-friendly city in America, Philadelphia will be receiving $1.2 million in state grants to improve its bicycle infrastructure, state Sen. Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia/Delaware) announced today.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved the funding at its meeting in Harrisburg today.
“Philadelphia leads the nation in commuting to work by bicycle and these grants should keep that momentum going for years to come,” Williams said. “Cycling to work is not only healthy for the rider, but taking cars off our congested roads improves the health of everyone who lives here.”
The grants will fund 24 new bike stations in West, Southwest and South Philadelphia, along with other biking infrastructure projects, Williams said.
“Cycling is a healthy and cost-effective way to get around,” he said. “These grants will help make sure it continues to be a safe and convenient way as well.”
The sites for the bike stations will be chosen with community input and are expected to be open next year.
Of cities with population of more than 1 million, Philadelphia was recently named the most bike friendly city by the real estate company Redfin, based in Seattle, WA. According to the League of American Bicyclists, 1.9 percent of the city’s commuters travel by bicycle, the highest percentage in the country.
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Contact: Hugh Baird
Phone: 717 787-5166
Email: hbaird@pasenate.com