Building a Sustainable Cycling Future for Youngstown

Good Morning, Daniel,

It was a pleasure to be on the panel! Thanks for reaching out with these thoughtful questions. Your team's dedication to understanding sustainable transportation in Youngstown is commendable. As the owner of Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals, and with my involvement in projects like Yo' Motion and YoGo Bikeshare, plus my collaboration with Outspoken Wheelmen, I'm excited to share my perspectives. Let's draw parallels to successful cities like Davis, California, and regional examples such as Akron's Towpath Trail, Cleveland Metroparks' extensive network, and the recreational opportunities in areas like Hocking Hills. These offer valuable insights for Youngstown.

The Purpose of Cycling Infrastructure in Youngstown

The cycling infrastructure in Youngstown serves several critical purposes:

Enhanced Mobility

It should provide a safe and efficient alternative for commuting, errands, and recreation. Connecting people to jobs, services, and green spaces is key.

Improved Public Health

Promoting active transportation contributes to a healthier populace. It reduces rates of chronic diseases linked to sedentary lifestyles.

Economic Development

Good infrastructure attracts new residents and businesses. It supports local tourism, as I've seen firsthand with Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals generating interest along the Mahoning River, primarily focused on Mill Creek Park. Successful multi-use trails, like Akron's Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, demonstrate significant economic impact, generating over $408 million in annual economic activity and supporting 4,200 jobs in the region.

Environmental Sustainability

It's crucial for reducing our carbon footprint and improving air quality.

Where We Fall Short

We're lacking in connectivity and perceived safety. While strides have been made, significant gaps remain. There's a critical infrastructure gap between the award-winning Mill Creek MetroParks Bikeway system and the public roadways providing access to park entrances in Youngstown. Despite the park system's extensive 11-mile internal trail network, cyclists face safety challenges when accessing park entrances due to inadequate bicycle infrastructure on surrounding public roads. Half-measures like sharrows do not serve the public interest. The rapid growth of e-bike adoption has made this gap even more critical. E-bike users are legally required to operate on roadways but often lack the experience necessary for safe navigation. Many existing lanes aren't fully separated, leading to vulnerability for cyclists and discouraging widespread adoption beyond recreational riders. The lack of protected intersections is a major concern.

Public Reception of Cycling Improvements

Generally, any improvement that feels safe and direct has received positive reception. Dedicated multi-use trails, even short segments, are universally loved for their recreational and family-friendly appeal. As the owner of Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals, I can attest to the immense popularity of our service within Mill Creek Park. The success of Akron's Towpath Trail, a developing 101-mile trail connecting dozens of Northeast Ohio communities, underscores the positive reception for extensive, well-maintained trail networks. The introduction of the YoGo Bikeshare has also been well-received, particularly by university students and downtown residents, as it provides an accessible entry point to cycling without the upfront cost of ownership.

The Worst Reception

The worst reception tends to come from painted bike lanes on busy roads without any physical separation. These are often viewed as mere suggestions rather than protective infrastructure. This can increase frustration for both cyclists and drivers. The current approach of relying on sharrows or providing no bicycle infrastructure at key park access points contradicts established best practices and creates unnecessary safety risks.

Cycling Infrastructure and Long-Term Repair Cycles

Investing in cycling infrastructure can positively impact the repair cycle of our overall transport infrastructure.

Reduced Road Wear

Every person who chooses a bicycle over a car reduces wear and tear on our roadways. Fewer heavy vehicles mean less stress on the asphalt, potentially extending the lifespan of roads and bridges.

Diversification of Investment

Investing in diverse modes of transport allows us to allocate resources more strategically. Instead of solely focusing on car-centric infrastructure, we can create a more resilient and multi-modal network.

Smarter Design

Designing for bicycles often means considering human scale and permeability. This can lead to more durable and context-sensitive urban design overall.

Changing Perceptions of Bicycles

Several factors are crucial for changing perceptions of bicycles as a legitimate method of transportation.

Safety and Comfort

This is paramount. People need to feel safe and comfortable cycling. This means protected bike lanes, clear signage, and traffic calming measures. For example, Davis, California, known as "The Bicycle Capital of America," was the first U.S. city to install dedicated bike lanes in 1967. Their emphasis on safe infrastructure has contributed to having no bike accidents recorded in recent years.

Convenience and Connectivity

Can I get where I need to go easily and directly by bike? This ties back to the network gaps we discussed. Davis boasts 102 miles of bike lanes and 63 miles of pathways within its nearly 10 square miles, creating a highly functional bicycle transportation system.

Societal Normalization

Seeing more people on bikes helps normalize cycling as a legitimate mode. Initiatives like YoGo Bikeshare make cycling more visible. Organizations like the CycWard Bike Club and Thrive Mahoning Valley contribute significantly by organizing rides and fostering a strong, visible cycling community in Youngstown.

Policy Support

Clear urban planning, zoning, and incentives that prioritize cycling are essential. This is an area where advocacy groups like Outspoken Wheelmen are constantly engaged. Davis has consistently earned Platinum status as a Bicycle Friendly Community since 2005.

Visibility and Advocacy

Consistent public education and advocacy are vital. We strive for this with Yo' Motion in promoting integrated mobility solutions. Active groups like Thrive Mahoning Valley push for a more livable and connected community.

Building Community Relationships

My approach has always been rooted in community engagement, transparency, and demonstrating tangible benefits.

Early and Consistent Engagement

Bringing community members to the table before plans are finalized is crucial. Listening to their concerns and incorporating their feedback is key. For Yo' Motion, this involved numerous public workshops and surveys to understand local needs.

Pilot Projects and Demonstrations

Sometimes, a temporary demonstration can effectively show people what's possible and gather real-world feedback.

Highlighting Local Benefits

Clearly articulating how a project will directly benefit residents is essential. With Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals, I emphasize the enjoyment of the park's natural beauty and the support for local businesses that comes from increased visitation.

Partnerships

Collaborating with local businesses, community groups, and educational institutions builds trust and shared ownership. Groups like the CycWard Bike Club serve as excellent grassroots partners.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Ensuring projects benefit all community members is vital. The affordability and ease of use of YoGo Bikeshare are key to its community acceptance.

Benefits of Shifting Towards Cycling

The benefits are vast and interconnected:

Improved Public Health

Reduced rates of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Better mental health through physical activity and outdoor exposure. Organizations like Thrive Mahoning Valley highlight these health benefits.

Economic Vitality

More vibrant downtowns and neighborhoods, increased local spending, reduced transportation costs for residents, and new job opportunities in bike-related businesses. The Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area generates over $408 million in economic impact annually.

Environmental Resilience

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions, cleaner air and water, and decreased noise pollution.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Quieter streets, more human-scale environments, increased social interaction, and a stronger sense of community.

Greater Equity

Providing affordable transportation options for those who can't afford or choose not to own a car. Bicycling is often the least-costly mode of transportation, offering massive cost savings.

Indicators of Successful Bike Infrastructure

Economically

• Increased bike sales and usage of services like YoGo Bikeshare and Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals.

• Growth in bike-related businesses.

• Increased foot traffic and sales for businesses along bike routes.

• Reduced parking demand in certain areas.

• Data showing a decrease in vehicle miles traveled.

  
  

Socially

• Visible increase in the number of cyclists of all ages and demographics.

• Reduced number of car-bike accidents.

• Increased community events centered around cycling.

• Positive public perception about cycling convenience and safety.

• Improved access to jobs, education, and recreation for non-drivers.

  
  

Environmentally

• Measurable reduction in local air pollutants.

• Decrease in per capita carbon emissions from transportation.

• Increased tree canopy and green infrastructure integration along bike paths.

  
  
  
  

The Role of Biking in Federal Grants

Biking would play a central role in any proposal for a major federal grant for sustainable mobility. It wouldn't be an add-on; it would be integral to a holistic sustainable mobility strategy.

Building a Connected, Protected Network

Prioritizing the construction of separated bike lanes and multi-use trails is essential. We need to bridge the critical infrastructure gap between the Mill Creek MetroParks Bikeway system and public roadways.

Expanding Bikeshare and E-Bike Access

Scaling up the YoGo Bikeshare program and adding more e-bikes would enhance its reach into underserved neighborhoods.

Safe Routes to School/Work

Dedicated funding for infrastructure improvements around schools and major employment zones is crucial.

Integrated Mobility Hubs

Developing multimodal hubs where people can easily transfer between bikes, public transit, and other sustainable options is essential.

Education and Promotion

A robust public awareness campaign to encourage cycling is necessary. Active involvement from advocacy groups like Outspoken Wheelman and community organizations like Thrive Mahoning Valley is vital.

Generational Shifts in Biking Perception

Absolutely, there's a noticeable shift.

Youth

Younger generations are more open to alternative transportation methods. They see biking as cool, practical, and fun. The ease of access provided by YoGo Bikeshare resonates strongly with them.

Older Adults

The e-bike revolution is making a difference. The barrier of physical exertion is significantly reduced, allowing older adults to rediscover cycling. I've seen this firsthand with the popularity of Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals among all age groups.

Current Traffic Laws and Infrastructure

Bluntly, no, not yet.

Infrastructure

The lack of truly protected infrastructure is the biggest shortcoming. Painted lanes offer minimal protection. This reliance on sharrows contradicts established best practices and creates unnecessary safety risks.

Traffic Laws

While Ohio has a "3-foot passing law," enforcement can be inconsistent. Laws alone cannot overcome poor infrastructure design. We need to move towards a "safe systems" approach where the infrastructure itself helps prevent serious injuries.

Changing Mindsets About Cycling

Shifting deeply ingrained behaviors and perceptions requires a multi-pronged approach:

Exposure and Normalization

Seeing others cycling safely makes it normalized. Initiatives like YoGo Bikeshare and events promoting cycling are crucial.

Reducing Perceived Barriers

Addressing the primary psychological barriers: fear of injury and perceived physical effort. Building safe infrastructure and promoting e-bikes are key.

Positive Framing and Benefits

Shifting the narrative from "giving up my car" to "gaining health, saving money, enjoying my community."

Role Models and Social Proof

Showcasing diverse individuals from the community who cycle and sharing their positive experiences is vital.

Education from a Young Age

Integrating cycling education into school curricula helps shape perceptions from an early age.

Experiential Learning

Providing opportunities for people to try cycling in a safe environment is essential. This is what Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals does within Mill Creek Park.

Partnerships for Bike Safety

Yes, these partnerships are vital, and we're actively pursuing them:

Universities (YSU)

The YoGo Bikeshare program is a direct affiliate with Youngstown State University.

Health Departments

We've had conversations with local health departments about the public health benefits of active transportation.

Schools

"Safe Routes to School" programs are a key area of focus for future expansion.

Community Groups

The Outspoken Wheelmen and CycWard Bike Club are crucial community partners.

Utilizing YoGo E-Bikes

Though this question should be directed at Ronnell Elkins, I can give you my perspective! Their E-bikes have been a tremendous success in their initial utilization.

Commuting

Particularly for YSU students and downtown workers, they offer a quick, convenient, and affordable way to get to classes or work.

Errands and Short Trips

Many use them for quick trips to local businesses, avoiding parking hassles.

Recreation and Tourism

Both locals and visitors use them to explore downtown Youngstown and connect to existing trails.

Improving Viability

To improve their role in making cycling a viable alternative to driving, we need to:

• Expand the network of stations and bikes.

• Integrate with public transit for seamless options.

• Increase the proportion of e-bikes in the fleet.

• Explore options for longer-term rentals.

• Expand safe, protected bike lanes.

  
  

Daniel, I hope these detailed responses provide the input you're seeking. The work you're doing, in collaboration with vital community partners, is incredibly important for Youngstown's future. I'm deeply invested in seeing our city become more bike-friendly. I'm eager to see how these discussions shape your planning. Please don't hesitate to follow up if you have any further questions or if there's anything else I can assist with.

Best Regards,

Pat

Owner of Cruise the Creek E-Bike Rentals