NE Valley Times

Scottsdale, Arizona has once again been acknowledged for its dedication to bicycle-friendly initiatives. The League of American Bicyclists has awarded the city with the prestigious Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community designation, extending its elite status for another four years. With this recognition, Scottsdale joins a select group of only 34 gold-level communities across the United States, placing it in the top 10 percent of cities recognized by the League.

The Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community award highlights Scottsdale's commitment to providing transportation and recreational resources that cater to residents of all ages and abilities while promoting healthier and more sustainable transportation choices. Mayor David D. Ortega proudly expressed the city's achievement, stating, "In Scottsdale every year, more than one million leisure and avid cyclists enjoy our network of bike pathways. Our world-class bicycle amenities set Scottsdale apart and build upon our tourism fame."

Mark Melnychenko, Director of Scottsdale's Transportation & Streets department, emphasized the city's dedication to maintaining and expanding its bicycle and recreation infrastructure. He noted, "The city’s Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community status is a nod towards Scottsdale’s Transportation Action Plan and commitment to maintain bicycle and recreation infrastructure for our residents and visitors. Expansion of the system includes the entire Transportation and Streets department from planning to construction to maintenance of multiuse paths, unpaved trails, and our on-street bike lane systems."

Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists, commended the 58 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Communities for their ongoing efforts to prioritize safe, comfortable, and accessible bicycling experiences. In his words, "Today we celebrate 58 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Communities that exemplify an ongoing commitment to make bicycling safe, comfortable, and accessible to all."

Scottsdale's journey to becoming a gold-level community began in 2005 when it was initially recognized as a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community. This was a significant achievement since Scottsdale was the first silver-level community without a university or major college. The city has since maintained its gold-level status since 2011, bolstered by its extensive network of bicycle amenities. Scottsdale boasts an impressive 123 miles of paved shared-use paths, 156 miles of unpaved trails, and 192 miles of on-street bike lanes.

Scottsdale's recognition as a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community reaffirms its position as a premier destination for cyclists. The city's commitment to creating a bicycle-friendly environment aligns with its Transportation Action Plan, ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy the numerous benefits of cycling while contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.