Hello bike friends —

The League of American Bicyclists has named Hennepin County a Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community, the first such distinction for a Minnesota county!

Thank you for your support, advocacy and for biking — you are responsible for much of the activity that earned us Silver status. The League of American Bicyclists takes a holistic approach to evaluate the cycling environment as a whole, not just miles of bikeway (though our 651 miles helps).

Previously, Hennepin County’s highest designation was honorable mention. We're now in elite company — no standalone county in the nation has higher status.  Levels from the League of American Bicyclists are bronze, silver, gold, platinum and diamond and are valid for four years.

Of course, being named Silver does not mean our work is done. Besides adding 20 miles a year to the network, we have a lot of work ahead of us to make biking in the county safe, comfortable and accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Today, though, take a moment to pat yourselves on the back for helping to make great progress.

You can read more about Bicycle Friendly Community status and the other communities selected at www.bikeleague.org/community.

Share your stories: #ridehennepin and www.hennepin.us/ridehennepin

For questions about biking in Hennepin County contact:

Kelley Yemen, Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator
kelley.yemen@hennepin.us or 612-543-1963