This week, Delaware was named by the League of American Bicyclists as the 5th most bicycle-friendly state in the country, ranking number one in the northeastern US. That’s something we should feel really good about – because it shows the progress we’ve been making to expand trails and pathways and ultimately, leave the state better than we found it for our kids and grandchildren. It’s about connecting communities and giving people new paths to travel, but it’s also about improving our quality of life and health, giving Delawareans more options to discover the scenic beauty of our state by linking workplaces, schools, parks, libraries, and businesses. And, it’s about jobs and our economy.
When we started this effort in 2008, Delaware ranked 31st among bicycle-friendly states in the nation. Then, we were ranked tenth. Now, at number five, we’re showing that it can be done. We’re building a world-class interconnected network of pathways and trails between neighborhoods, towns and cities. We’re on the road to making our quality of life in Delaware #1 in the country – a win for all those growing up here, raising families here, moving or visiting here. We also want entrepreneurs and companies who want to grow their businesses here. A walkable, bikeable state is very much part of our efforts to keep Delaware moving forward.