CalBike report

The League of American Bicyclists, the Alliance for Biking & Walking, and Bikes Belong announced they are giving serious consideration to merging into a single organization. We commend these allies for courageously exploring ways to improve our movement's efficiency and effectiveness.

 We recognize the potential impact of pooling the combined resources of these three organizations to create a single national bike advocacy powerhouse. We understand there are many important details to iron out, but we urge the boards of these organizations to give their prompt and full consideration to the proposed merger.

 Under any scenario, state-level advocacy will remain an essential component of a comprehensive national strategy. It's at the state level where key decisions regarding funding, bicyclists' rights and standards for bicycle-friendly roads and trails are made. California has an especially esteemed history in this regard: For decades, the Golden State's bicycling advocates have been pioneers in establishing bike lane and bike trail design guidance, using state gas tax dollars for dedicated bike project funding, enacting safe routes to school and complete streets laws and more. 

 After one of the best years in our history, CBC stands ready to continue establishing California as a place that matters to bike advocates around the nation. We take inspiration from our national allies for their willingness to confront the need for organizational change. California has 15 local advocacy organizations with paid staff and dozens of other groups and clubs led by dedicated volunteers. We aim to make 2012 a year of unprecedented collaboration with these local groups as we unite around a vision for a healthier, safer, more livable California, thanks to bicycling.

 All of us at CBC greatly appreciate your commitment to bicycle advocacy in your own community and with us at the California Bicycle Coalition. We look forward to the many benefits of our future collaborations.

Chris Morfas, CBC President