Up until last year, there were no BFC designated communities in the NIRPC Region. That changed in May of 2019 when Valparaiso was designated a Bronze Level BFC, joining 10 other communities in Indiana with such recognition. The Valpo Parks Department partnered with the Valparaiso Pathways Committee in preparing the application, which included input from city officials, their police and fire departments and Valparaiso Community Schools.
Their application demonstrated progressive success in several key areas that are necessary for the recognition. These areas include infrastructure improvements, bike-related events, bicycle-friendly ordinances and an active citizens group. A prime factor in receiving the designation has been Valpo’s continued expansion of their pathways system which now encompasses more than 20 miles, with even more funding for imminent development.
Becoming a BFC takes time, but the results pay off with a community safely connected together, and not hostage to unsafe streets and intersections. Outcomes such as people commuting by bike, kids riding to school and reduction of automobile crashes are key factors in the designation process. These outcomes are the result of the employment of the 5 “E’s” including enforcement, education, engineering, evaluation and encouragement.
NIRPC certainly encourages your community to strive for BFC status, and you can learn more by visiting League of American Bicyclists.