Why Should Elmhurst have a Bike Task Force?

Talking points developed by the Advocacy Committee of the Elmhurst Bicycle Club

• Since bikes are entitled to be on the roadway, the committee would work to educate the public about the presence of bikes and their rights to the roadways through publications like the Elmhurst “Front Porch,” the quarterly newsletter distributed to all residents. This awareness should reduce bike/auto accidents.
• Encouraging biking would provide an active alternative that can address physical fitness for both adults and children, especially in view of the alarming incidence of obesity in younger children nationwide. Biking to school is not only healthy but will address pollution and auto congestion issues.
• The committee would help improve bike safety and reduce bike/auto conflict.
• Being bike friendly is a proven way to increase property values by making the community more “green.”
• Many people currently bike to the Elmhurst train station as demonstrated by the heavy use of the bike racks at the train station. This can help reduce the demand for parking and reduce downtown auto congestion.
• It has been shown nationally that increased bike traffic on organized trails brings more commerce into a community. Such an increase in traffic on the Prairie Path will bring more commerce to the Spring Road shopping area.
• The communities of Naperville, Hinsdale, Lisle, Schaumburg, Oak Park and Wheaton all have a bike task force in motion or in formation to enhance the values of their communities. Not having a task force would place Elmhurst at a disadvantage to our neighbors. Elmhurst has so many awards. Adding “bike-friendly” to the list would be a significant draw.
• The Illinois Prairie Path is the oldest rail-to-trail conversion in the United States and Elmhurst is the first community riders encounter coming from the East. We have an opportunity to set the pace on trail development and usage for the communities to the West of Elmhurst.
• Finally, the Elmhurst Bicycle Club has over 200 members, one of the larger organized groups in the city.