Alabama Bike Month

Proclamation
By the Governor of Alabama
WHEREAS, the bicycle has been an important part of the lives of many Americans for more than a century and still to this day residents of all ages throughout our great State engage in bicycling for transportation, recreation, and fitness; and
WHEREAS, the use of bicycles for transportation benefits all residents of Alabama as it eases traffic congestion, and produces no air pollution, and reduces the public funds needed for highway maintenance and construction; and
WHEREAS, Alabama Bike Month provides an opportunity to increase public awareness of the many benefits of bicycling, and it promotes road safety education for bicyclists and motorists; and
WHEREAS, three Alabama communities, including a total population of more than half a million, are now officially recognized as Bicycle Friendly Communities that create programs, policies, and routes inviting to bicycling; and
WHEREAS, Alabama’s Chief Ladiga Trail and the Alabama Backroads Century Series attract thousands of bicyclists each year from all 50 states and from across the globe; and
WHEREAS, these bicycling activities and attractions have a positive impact on Alabama’s economy and tourism industry, and stimulate economic development by making the state attractive to businesses and citizens who enjoy the outdoors and a healthy lifestyle; and
WHEREAS, bicycling offers a unique perspective from which residents and visitors discover Alabama’s natural beauty, its history and culture, several thousand miles of scenic rural roads, and year-round pleasant weather; all making Alabama a favorite tourist destination for bicycling enthusiasts; and
WHEREAS, the League of American Bicyclists, the Alabama Bicycle Coalition, bicycle clubs, schools, parks and recreation departments, police departments, hospitals, companies and civic groups throughout Alabama will promote bicycling as a leisure activity as well as an environmentally friendly alternative to the automobile during the month of May 2017:
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kay Ivey, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2017, as
Alabama Bike Month
in the State of Alabama.
Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 1st day of May 2017.
Kay Ivey
Governor