Strategic Plan

2015-2020

After generations of automobile-based development in the United States, transitioning to a more bikeable environment will require a substantial shift in public perception as to the viability of bicycling as a critical transportation component. A shift in public policy of this magnitude will require a sustained, multi-year effort. Imagine a future Maryland where the 1st choice of transportation is biking! This is the Maryland we want to make a reality.

Vision

Create a more bikeable Maryland that’s fun and safe.

Within the context of the Strategic Vision, Bike Maryland’s efforts over the next 5 years will focus on the following mission, goals and action items:

Mission

Bike Maryland is the unifying organization for Maryland bicyclists, advocating for improved cycling conditions through infrastructure, education, encouragement and enforcement.

Goals

1. Unify local bicycle advocates to create more bikeable communities statewide
2. Educate public on bikeability & road safety
3. Advocate for the construction of designated and connected  bicycle infrastructure
4. Increase statewide bicycle mode share by 2% in 5 years
5. Grow membership, diversify funding sources and promote organization initiatives

Strategies

1. Unify local bicycle advocates to create more bikeable communities statewide
   1. Lead state-wide advocacy to sponsor pro-bike legislation
   2. Educate elected officials and candidates on bike issues
   3. Develop Local Partners Program
   4. Support all manner of bicycle clubs (social, road, mountain, BMX, urban, rural)
   5. Establish and support local bicycle advocacy efforts in areas of the state where it currently is lacking
   6. Cross promote bike events across Maryland
   7. Develop Maryland Bike Friendly Rankings and Awards
2. Educate public on bikeability & road safety
   1. Hire a full time Education Coordinator to manage Bike MINDED Safety Program, Bike Friendly Program and other educational outreach programs
   2. Continue Bike Maryland Bike-MINDED Safety Program and increase reach from 10,000 to 15,000 participants
   3. Build the Bicycle Friendly Program (Community, Business & University)
   4. Develop “Bike Maryland Road Show” that incorporates Bike-MINDED rodeos, commuter workshops, Bike Friendly program, engineering advice and other programs targeting communities across the state for bike education.
   5. Establish and partner with existing programs to promote biking to more diverse socio-economic groups
   6. Work with law enforcement officers and state attorneys to foster a safer cycling environment
   7. Institute the Safe Cycling and Safe Passing Pledge through Local Partners Program Maryland Highway Safety Office and Mid-Atlantic AAA
   8. Develop multi-lingual bicycle safety materials
   9. Create clearinghouse for Maryland bicycle maps
   10. Partner with State Highway Administration and other agencies on road safety messaging
3. Advocate for the construction of designated and connected  bicycle infrastructure
   1. Lead advocacy support for significant statewide projects
   2. Support local infrastructure efforts
   3. Strengthen partnering opportunities with state and regional agencies
   4. Guide local partners on localized bicycle improvements
4. Increase statewide bicycle mode share by 2% in 5 years
   1. Verify current level of bicycle use, through use of interns and volunteers
   2. Encourage bicycling through events
   3. Support the development and implementation of a statewide bicycle route system
   4. Support the development and expansion bikeshare systems
5. Promote organization by growing membership, improving communication and diversifying funding sources
   1. Develop and implement Membership Plan
   2. Improve Bike Maryland image through  improved communication outreach
   3. Increase financial support for Bike Maryland initiatives
   4. Provide professional development to Bike Maryland staff
   5. Establish a parallel  501(c)4 bicycle advocacy organization within 5 years