Postcard from Crested Butte: Bicycles as form and function

By David T. Whitaker, AICP, Smart Growth Maryland
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Another interesting observation about Crested Butte is that most bicycle traffic does not occur on trails or even on sidewalks in the town. Adults and children alike ride their bicycles down the middle of streets in Crested Butte. Although some trails exist in and around the town, bicyclists of all ages in Crested Butte ride primarily on town streets. This public acceptance of bicycle travel is a continuation of a town tradition where bicycles are considered functional transportation.
This was not entirely by happenstance. This was the result of policy decisions made by town elected leaders, planners and park and recreation staff. Enhanced bicycle activity in the town supports Crested Butte’s reputation as one of the original locations in the development of the mountain bike. It says to visitors: “If you come to Crested Butte, bring your bike.” Therein lays a story unique to this Colorado community. Town officials in Crested Butte value human travel higher than they do motor vehicular travel.
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https://smartgrowthmd.wordpress.com/2012/06/28/postcard-from-crested-butte-bicycles-as-form-and-function/
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B’ Spokes: I’ll note I miss our rides with the Mayor, I believe it is the political connections that can make biking mainstream.