Advocacy Group for Fresno County Cyclists Seeks Improved Cycling Infrastructure and Safety Measures
Fresno County Bicycle Coalition Advancing Cycling in the Fresno Area
Spring and Earth Day arrival marks an opportune moment to delve into the workings of the Fresno County Bicycle Coalition (FCBC), an organization that has captured the interest of Lorie Lewis Ham during her research for a new mystery novel in the Tower District.
As the planet deserves a helping hand, the FCBC endeavors to encourage cycling throughout the Fresno area. Having been established in 2001, the coalition regards bicycles as vessels for change and strives to promote cycling for all through community engagement, activism, donation drives, and coordinating cycling events within Fresno County.
In a recent conversation with Edna Pedroza, the chair of FCBC, we gained valuable insights into the organization's mission. "I am honored to lead this organization while collaborating with individuals who are fiercely dedicated to promoting cycling throughout Fresno," Pedroza said.
Our question-and-answer session with Pedroza revealed the following:
Q: Can you elaborate on the nature and origin of Fresno County Bicycle Coalition?
A: Founded in 2001 by a group of passionate cyclists and advocates, the Fresno County Bicycle Coalition (FCBC) is a nonprofit organization that champions cycling infrastructure, promotes cycling as a transportation option, and fosters camaraderie among cyclists. The coalition collaborates with local governments, businesses, and other organizations to ensure that cycling is safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.
Q: How did you become part of the coalition, and how long have you been cycling?
A: Growing up in Fresno, I observed the city's limited cycling infrastructure and opportunities for safe cycling. I was compelled to contribute to addressing this issue. I have been an avid cyclist for most of my life, and over time, I have recognized just how much cycling can improve not only my health but also the environment and the community.
My commitment to the FCBC stemmed from this passion for change. Since joining the coalition in 2016, I have been steadfast in advocating for safe cycling infrastructure, raising awareness, and cultivating a stronger cycling community.
Q: Are all members of the coalition volunteers?
A: Yes, the Fresno County Bicycle Coalition consists of volunteers who range from cyclists to community members who are passionate about safe, accessible cycling.
Q: Can you tell us about the Bike Station and why it is significant? Where and when does it take place, and how can the public get involved?
A: The Bike Station program offers support to cyclists who commute by bike or rely on their bikes for primary transportation by teaching them how to tune up their bicycle free of charge. The program is managed by board member Julie Conji. The Bike Station is crucial because it provides essential support systems to motivate people to bike more frequently and ensure that their bicycles remain in safe working condition. The Bike Station can be found at local events, near popular cycling routes, and usually in front of Tower Velo. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the coalition via the website or social media for more information.
Q: How do you decide the type of rides the coalition will sponsor?
A: We make every effort to organize rides that cater to a diverse group of cyclists, whether they are beginners or seasoned bikers. Rides are often chosen based on community feedback, seasonal considerations, local events, and advocacy opportunities. We aim to create rides that cater to various skill levels, emphasize safety, and are accessible to all participants.
Q: Why is cycling important, and what are its advantages?
A: Cycling delivers numerous benefits that extend beyond personal health. It encourages physical activity, decreases stress, and aids in combating chronic health conditions. From a broader perspective, cycling contributes to reducing traffic congestion, emissions, and creating cleaner, safer streets. It is an affordable and sustainable mode of transportation that is accessible to many people.
Q: Does the coalition host an Earth Day Ride every year? What role does cycling play in safeguarding the environment?
A: Yes, we organize an Earth Day Ride annually. This year's ride will take place on April 12, starting at City Hall and concluding at Fresno City College. The ride offers an opportunity to raise awareness about the environmental advantages of cycling and inspire people to embrace this zero-emission transportation method. By cycling instead of driving, we can diminish air pollution, alleviate traffic congestion, and foster more sustainable communities.
Q: What are the goals of the coalition?
The goals of the coalition include advocating for cycling infrastructure, promoting cycling as a viable transportation option, and building a strong cycling community.
Q: Where can the public find more information about the coalition, its events, and membership opportunities?
More information about the coalition, including upcoming events and methods to become a member, can be found on the FCBC website or on the organization's Facebook and Instagram accounts.
With numerous events in store, including the Earth Day Ride, Coffee Outside rides, and the November Bike Prom ride, the Fresno County Bicycle Coalition consistently demonstrates its dedication to promoting cycling as a safe and sustainable transportation method in Fresno.
- In addition to promoting cycling, the Fresno County Bicycle Coalition (FCBC) also extends its reach to diverse aspects of community living, such as fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, relationships, pets, travel, and cars.
- As the chair of FCBC, Edna Pedroza underscores the importance of cycling in various spheres of life, stating, "Cycling is more than just a mode of transportation; it affects our lifestyles, relationships, and even impacts our pets and travel experiences."
- The FCBC's Bike Station program not only focuses on cycling but also extends to food-and-drink, as it often sets up stations near popular cycling routes to provide cyclists with refreshments while ensuring their bikes remain in good condition.
- During their conversation, Edna Pedroza shared her vision for an integrated lifestyle that incorporates cycling, explaining, "I envision a future where our homes-and-gardens are connected through safe, accessible cycling paths, fostering a harmonious balance between our physical health, relationships, pets, and environmental footprint."
