MassBike Interrogates the Candidates

[pk]

Our friends at MassBike have sent questionaires to the gubernatorial candidates to see where they stand on bicycling. Question #6 is specifically on mountain biking. Here's are the results (in various posts, since the document was too long for one post):

MassBike sent this eight item questionnaire to all of the candidates currently running for Governor of Massachusetts*. The following are the unedited responses.

*Carla Howell and Mitt Romney did not respond by our deadline.

1. Are you, yourself, a bicyclist? If so, what do you enjoy most about bicycling in Massachusetts?

Tom Birmingham: Yes, I am proud to be an active bicyclist. As you know, with MassBike¹s help and participation, I spent several weeks last summer on my own "Tour de Mass" across our Commonwealth. Tim Baldwin, your executive director, called that experience "bicycling nirvana," and I can¹t do better than that. I was pleased that it not only helped my campaign, but also created additional public awareness of bicycling throughout our state.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. I enjoy bicycling in Massachusetts. Like most kids, I enjoyed riding my bike around my neighborhood, especially in the summer. Today, I still enjoy riding my bike when I get the chance. I even have installed a child seat on my bike for my three-year old daughter Regan.

Robert Reich: My wife, my two sons and I are all enthusiastic bicyclists. We support bicycling because it gets people outdoors and gets people out of their cars. We enjoy bicycling as an outdoor family activity for ourselves personally.

Jill Stein: Yes. I am a bicyclist and so are my family. We enjoy bicycling for recreation and exercise (and as a physician, I recommend it to my patients as an excellent way to exercise). I must note that the lack of safe bikepaths in our neighborhood limits our ability to fully use our bikes as a means of local transportation. Bicyclists should be recognized for their contributions to healthy and environmentally sustainable transportation. Bicyclists are making a healthy choice for themselves, of course. And to the degree that one less car is used by each person on a bicycle, bicyclists contribute to the health of all around them by reducing traffic congestion, air pollution, and noise. To understand where I¹m coming from, please listen to the song "Streets of Boston" (included on a CD sent to MassBike, along with the questionnaire). This is a song I wrote and performed several years ago - long before I became involved in a political campaign.

Warren Tolman: Yes. I am an avid cyclist. I ride both recreationally and competitively. Just a few weeks ago, I participated in a triathlon and a seniors issues debate in the same day. I consider Massachusetts ideal for cycling because of its varied terrain. Without leaving the MetroWest area, I can ride my bike along flat stretches of road, rough forest trails, or the winding banks of the Charles River.

2. Do you support statewide bicycle safety education programs in schools?

Tom Birmingham: As a strong supporter of both public education and bicycling, I do support statewide bicycle safety education programs in schools. The NHTSA "Safe Routes to School" pilot program in Arlington seems like a good place to start.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. I believe that school children across the Commonwealth should have access to programs that teach bicycle safety and encourage bicycle use as a method to travel to and from school. The benefits of encouraging children to ride their bikes to school include increased physical activity for children and youth, less traffic congestion around schools, safer, calmer streets and neighborhoods and improved air quality and a cleaner environment. As our community streets become busier, the task of walking and bicycling to school becomes increasingly difficult. Kids often must cross busy streets to get to school and have to deal with incomplete or nonexistent sidewalk systems. I believe that implementing programs that help families choose the safest routes to school, as well as teach children basic bicycle safety are an important component of an academic day.

Robert Reich: Bicycle safety education is part of the Statewide Bicycle Transportation Plan that I endorse and would work hard to implement. The Statewide Bicycle Transportation Plan is a very good plan but it needs the support and leadership of the Governor for it to be implemented and to be fully effective.

Jill Stein: Yes. I feel that ever child should be required to have completed such courses - probably at two points in their school career. I also think that reminding motorists of their responsibilities for bicycle safety would be worthwhile at the time of license renewals.

Warren Tolman: Yes. Massachusetts has a strong law requiring all children under the age of twelve to wear helmets while riding bicycles. Unfortunately, a lot of children aren¹t aware that this law exists. A lot of children also lack a basic understanding of the rules of traffic. As a father of three, I strongly support statewide bicycle safety education programs in schools.

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More MassBike Questions:

3. Do you think that Massachusetts should work to encourage bicycle tourism?

Tom Birmingham: Yes, I support efforts to promote bicycle tourism. I believe it could offer significant economic benefits in some parts of our Commonwealth, such as the Cape and western Massachusetts.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. I believe that supporting increased bicycle tourism will help increase bicycle ridership, help the local economy and protect our natural resources. As part of the O¹Brien-Gabrieli Plan for Smart Growth and Development in Massachusetts, my running mate Chris Gabrieli and I propose to increase our commitment to protecting open space, state parks and other areas that make wonderful bicycling terrain. Over the past decade the state forest and park system has lost over 15% of its staff and the numbers are continuing to decline. Over this same time period the number of acres managed has increased by over 6% (13,000 acres), visitation has increased by 41% and 21 new facilities were added or reopened. Maintaining our state and local parks is an issue of equity for all residents of Massachusetts. One of the most important functions they serve is to provide safe and comfortable places for families - who may not be able to afford overnight vacations - to recreate and enjoy nature. The O¹Brien-Gabrieli Administration will seek sufficient public funding to help manage public lands, keep our parks safe for children, and protect our environmental resources for families to enjoy. Chris and I also believe that the Boston Harbor Islands represent a great natural, recreational, and economic resource that will provide a unique opportunity for bicycle tourism. Current plans for the Islands include developing an eco-retreat and family camp at Peddocks, and creating new mainland gateways downtown and in surrounding communities to enhance access. Increased tourism is projected to generate $209 million in spending, resulting in $22 million in tax revenue, and 4,000 new jobs. The O¹Brien-Gabrieli Administration will work to attract investment and support for this project from the federal government as well as the private sector.

Robert Reich: I think that Massachusetts should work aggressively to encourage bicycle tourism. From the Cape to the Berkshires, we have a wonderful environment that cyclists can enjoy. Additionally, open space is a high priority for me - and I support the Open Space Bond Bill which earmarks funds for pedestrian and bicycle trails, greenways, and other facilities that encourage bicycle tourism.

Jill Stein: Definitely. We have some great cycling locations and his should be an integral part of our tourism promotion. We should also encourage bicycle recreation as a routine local activity

Warren Tolman: Yes. Between its beaches, its historical landmarks, and its rich forests, Massachusetts has a lot to offer bicycle tourists. Massachusetts also has a lot to gain from bicycle tourists-since cyclists can support local economies without clogging the roadways or harming the environment.

4. Do you believe that roads should be built, maintained, and policed with bicyclists in mind?

Tom Birmingham: Not only do I agree that roads should be built, maintained and policed with bicycles in mind, but I have ensured that that happens. The 1996 bicycle/pedestrian access law, which the Senate passed with my leadership, requires the state Highway Department to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian traffic when it plans, constructs and maintains highways. As Governor, I will ensure that the letter and spirit of this important law are fully carried out.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. Chris and I believe that one of the greatest assets "Smart Growth" communities is their "walkability," and "bikability", offering easy and safe access to such services as schools, shopping centers, offices and parks. From 1992 to 1999, Massachusetts ranked seventh worst in transportation enhancement spending, using only 47% of the federal funds originally set aside for this process. As we relieve the burden of the costs associated with the Big Dig, we must do a better job of allocating funds toward transportation enhancements that will actually relieve traffic congestion. The O¹Brien-Gabrieli Administration will direct the Massachusetts Highway Department to utilize a greater portion of federal funds under TEA- 21 for transportation "enhancements," such as improved transit and rail access, additional parking and bike storage facilities at mass-transit sites, safer crosswalks and sidewalks, better pedestrian and bike paths, "walkable" town centers, and easy and safe access to schools.

Robert Reich: I do think that roads should be built, maintained and policed with bicyclists in mind. We all have to share the roads and we all should be able to do so safely. We need a shift in thinking about road projects to include pedestrian and bicycle considerations. I am committed to leadership that takes into consideration issues about pedestrian and bicycle access, as part of a shift in thinking about open space and smart growth.

Jill Stein: Yes. Of course. Bicyclists (and pedestrians as well) usually get inadequate attention in the design and maintenance of roads. As governor I will require that design studies by traffic engineers not only model automobile traffic flow but also assess impacts on bicycle and pedestrian movement. I will promote safe, convenient bike and pedestrian transit as an essential component of all transportation plans.

Warren Tolman: Yes. I was the chief Senate sponsor of the 1996 Bicycle-Pedestrian Access Law, which granted bicyclists the right to ride on all public roads in Massachusetts. The law also required that all new highways be accessible to cyclists. Unfortunately, while the letter of the Bicycle-Pedestrian Law has been obeyed, many local authorities have disregarded its spirit. I believe that our government must do more to protect the rights of cyclists to use the roads of Massachusetts.

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Even more MassBike.....

5. Do you support the creation of an integrated network of well-designed bike paths throughout Massachusetts?

Tom Birmingham: I do support a bikepath network throughout our Commonwealth, and again I have taken action to make it happen. Under my leadership, the Senate has authorized $7 million in new bikeway funding, specifically including the Tri-Community Bikepath (Winchester, Stoneham, Woburn), the Blackstone River Bikeway, the Millbury rail trail, the Watertown bike path, and the Leominster-Fitchburg rail trail. I also encouraged the Senate Post Audit Committee, led by Senator Cheryl Jacques, to issue a very useful report last year on expediting rail-trail development by, for example, by spending available federal funds and streamlining the state review process.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. Chris and I believe that bike paths and trails like the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail and the Minuteman Rail Trail add significantly to the quality of life of their host communities, while providing a local economic boost as well as numerous environmental benefits. The O¹Brien-Gabrieli Administration will support the expansion of pedestrian and bike trails by directing the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs to develop a vision for an enhanced statewide network of trails that serve both commuters and recreationists.

Robert Reich: An integrated network of bicycle paths throughout the Commonwealth is an important component of promoting alternative transportation. I am committed to promoting alternative transportation, such as fuel-efficient vehicles and increased use of public transportation, as well as bicycles and bike paths. I support rail-to-trail conversions as a model for rehabilitation of under-utilized infrastructure.

Jill Stein: Yes. I have seen the value of this in my home town, where the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway has become a key recreational resource and is viewed by local merchants as an important economic benefit (bringing people into the town center). It¹s great to see whole families walking around the town center on weekends wearing their bike helmets.

Warren Tolman: Yes. As Governor, I intend to promote a comprehensive regional transportation plan. This plan will call for the improvement of all components of Massachusetts¹ alternative transportation infrastructure-bike paths included. I am particularly interested in converting unused railroad corridors into bike paths. As a state Senator, I proposed a plan to turn an old railroad corridor into a path linking the Minuteman Bikeway and the Charles River bike path in Watertown. My brother, State Senator Steven Tolman, recently succeeded in allocating $600,000 towards the completion of this project. Between 1992 and 2000, Massachusetts was eligible for more than $85 million in federal aid for the construction of bike paths and other environmentally friendly amenities. However, Massachusetts claimed only 17% percent of that money, last in the nation. Our state was foolish to pass up such an excellent opportunity. Under my leadership, the Massachusetts government will give more thought to those who use alternative forms of transportation.

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Getting closer to the end ......

6. Do you believe that park agencies should accommodate mountain bike riders on trails, where appropriate?

Tom Birmingham: I support accommodating mountain bike riders on designated park trails under reasonable and environmentally sustainable circumstances.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. (See my response to question 3 for my plans to increase protection for these areas).

Robert Reich: Park managers should designate appropriate areas for mountain bike riding and enforce the rules accordingly. Some trails may be too sensitive, but those that can handle the load and the traffic should be open to mountain bikes. Park managers need appropriate assessment tools which respect the resources within each park and the needs of other recreational users, as well as mountain bikers.

Jill Stein: Yes. I do recognize that mountain bikes are not appropriate everywhere - for instance where trail erosion problems cannot be solved or where safety of pedestrian users cannot be maintained. I feel that the underfunding of park staff has impaired our ability to manage trail use, and I will increase funding in this area so that we can plan and manage a variety of trail uses in our parks.

Warren Tolman: Yes. Public parks exist for the enjoyment of everyone, from cyclists and joggers to dog-walkers and horseback riders. As long as they are willing to ride in a safe and considerate manner, mountain bikers deserve access to public parks.

7. Do you support measures to encourage bicycle commuting, such as accessible bike parking, showers, tax incentives and bicycle access on public transportation?

Tom Birmingham: Yes, I favor encouraging bicycle commuting, including providing proper facilities, consistent with our serious fiscal situation and other fiscal priorities.

Shannon O¹Brien: Yes. (See my response to question 4 for my plans to increase measures that promote bicycle commuting).

Robert Reich: A lot of measures to encourage bicycle commuting can be done without tax money - and should be done via encouragement from state agencies during the development and construction process. Private developers will include bike parking, showers, and other facilities for bicycle commuters if they are reminded of the importance of such facilities at the right time. The right time is during the permitting process under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. With a secretary and governor who cares about these issues, private developers will be willing to implement such facilities. The Commonwealth can lead the way by constructing state facilities which are models for bicycle commuting and other alternative transportation, and then demonstrating those to private developers.

Jill Stein: Yes. Absolutely. We are generously subsidizing the most environmentally destructive forms of transportation and neglecting bicycling. Our priorities need to change, and as governor I will press for such changes.

Warren Tolman: Yes. I would like the MBTA to expand and publicize the hours during which commuters are able to take bicycles on trains and buses. When I worked in Boston at my legal job and at the state house, I biked to work on a regular basis. I would also like municipal governments to provide more bicycle racks for use by commuters. I have officially endorsed the On the Move Coalition¹s plan for transportation reform, which calls for a variety of other cycling-related reforms.

8. What ways, other than those already mentioned, would you help promote bicycling?

Tom Birmingham: I believe in leading by example. As Governor, I will continue to be an enthusiastic bicyclist myself, and I will continue my strong support for MassBike and its important agenda.

Shannon O¹Brien: Chris and I believe that promoting smarter development will reduced traffic, preserve open space and protect air quality - all things essential to the interests of bicyclists. State funding for roads, water infrastructure, and other infrastructure is often not utilized strategically to advance wise land use. The O¹Brien-Gabrieli Administration will undertake a major initiative in determining "smart growth priority funding areas" that will assist localities in determining those areas that are priority areas for state capital spending and, conversely, areas where new development is less appropriate. Determination will be based upon such criteria as the number of people served, access to mass transit, utilization of existing infrastructure and environmental impact. We will also promote building more affordable housing units near available transportation and ensure that transit access is within the reach of first-time homebuyers. The O¹Brien-Gabrieli Administration will propose legislation to create low-interest mortgages for home-buyers who purchase in and near existing communities and near transportation facilities, including reducing the down payments and settlement expenses of people who re-locate to priority funding areas. Both of these efforts will actively preserve our remaining open space, and help to provide valuable bicycling terrain across the Commonwealth.

Robert Reich: Promoting bicycling should be part of promoting multi-modal access. There are many means of promotion that could be readily accomplished at minimal cost - such as adding bicycle racks to buses. The issue there is not the cost nor the means, but the will to do it. Massachusetts needs a culture change and someone directing that change - then bicycles will be promoted as part of a larger policy shift. My administration will put a priority on open space, will focus on smart growth, and will encourage alternative transportation - and bicycles will benefit as a result. These are more than simply policy issues - it moves Massachusetts in the right direction and makes Massachusetts a better place to live.

Jill Stein: As a medical doctor, I often find myself telling patients that they must make lifestyle alterations for the sake of their health. A similar challenge faces us with regard to our dependence upon the automobile. I would like to establish public awareness that bicycles are not only good for the health of individual cyclists, but are an important element of a healthy environment for all. I want to give priority to the most sustainable activities and curtail subsidies for destructive activities. I would like to involve public interest groups, like the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition, in the decision-making for community planning and transportation planning. When the entire community comes together to discuss what we need to do to ensure healthy, vibrant communities, the proper priorities can emerge. Such community-based decision making creates another mechanism by which bicycling can be promoted within all our transportation and land use decisions.

Warren Tolman: I believe in leadership by example. I will help to curtail noise and air pollution not only by promoting strong environmental laws, but also by personally using environmentally friendly modes of transportation. I will continue riding my bicycle and will continue competing in triathlons. I would also like to start a world class cycling event in Boston to raise awareness about cycling and to raise funds to support cycling in Massachusetts.

This is the end of the questionaire!

[knucklebuste]

Not much about mountain biking in there. I personally despise riding on the road. It's more dangerous than mountain biking and you lose the feeling of an attachment with nature. I like getting out in the woods, away from traffic, people and the F@%$#%%$ing rat race. Also, I do not believe in voting as all politicians are corrupt greedy *******s. F$%$^#'em

[johnnyt]

It amazes me how politicians can turn something like biking that is so much fun into, well, politician speak. These folks are a bunch of puppets!

Here are a couple of bike related questions that would be interesting to ask these folks:
1. What kind of bike do you ride?
2. When was the last time and place that you rode?
3. Baggie shorts, lycra or other?
4. Clipless or toe clips?
5. Hardtail or softtail? Why?

Once we establish these very imoprtant issues, then it might be interesting to hear their puffed up rhetoric. At least then we would know where they are coming from. My guess is that is it not from the perspective an active rider. But, call me cynical...