The Arlington County government has moved up another level in the “Bicycle Friendly Community” ranks of the League of American Bicyclists.
The advocacy group has recognized Arlington as a Gold-level community for 2024, up from the Silver ranking it had held since 2007. In 2003, Arlington had entered the rankings as a Bronze-level community.
The new top-tier designation “recognizes the county for a commitment to building quality biking infrastructure as part of its transportation network and implementing programs that help all riders feel welcomed and encouraged,” Arlington leaders said.
Each year, the League of American Bicyclists evaluates applicants across five categories to assign a four-year designation. Arlington is among 480 American municipalities taking part in the ranking.
“This year, Arlington’s standout qualities included innovative infrastructure changes, educational programs to onboard new riders, and a strong culture of biking among residents,” county officials said.
Virginia has 15 communities designated as bicycle friendly by the organization, and Arlington is the only one to have reached the Gold level. Nine Virginia universities have been designated bicycle-friendly, with two (Virginia Tech and Virginia Commonwealth University) attaining Gold status.
Nationwide, the organization – which dates its roots to 1880 – ranks Virginia the seventh most bicycle-friendly state.
For full details, see the Website at www.bikeleague.org.
