The city of Kirkland recently received a bronze level Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB) award for the support of bicycle commuting among city staff.

The award was given by the League of American Bicyclists, which is a national organization that works towards making bicycling a safer and easier mode of transportation and recreation through education, resources, grant funds and advocacy.

“Bicycling can be a helpful alternative to driving alone,” said Councilmember Jon Pascal. “Commuting by bike can improve traffic by taking cars off the street and has a positive impact on the health of the rider.”

The BFB recognition was shared by over 1,500 businesses across the country, including government agencies; Fortune 500 companies; bike shops; and other employers.

“The City encourages our employees to commute by bike by offering a transportation incentive program, bike racks and shower facilities, and fostering a culture where bicyclists feel welcomed at work,” said Councilmember Pascal.

Kirkland also received a bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) award and has recently reapplied for a higher-level designation. The city’s first BFC designation was in 2017, and the city believes it will reach higher designations for BFB and BFC awards, which allow reapplication every four years.

The desire to reapply for higher designations comes after significant investments, including the adoption of an update to the Active Transportation Plan, Kirkland’s first Vision Zero Action Plan, Safer Routes to School Action Plans, and the progress made on Cross Kirkland Corridor.

Community members can share feedback about bicycling in Kirkland with the League of American Bicyclists.