The Community Says:
Since taking his post, Mayor Adrian Fenty has been at the helm of the District as it transforms into a world-class city for cyclists. In 2001, the League of American bicyclists confirmed this saying, "We were particularly impressed with the District of Columbia for the higher than average levels of bicycle use and recent improvements such as bike lane striping, bus and Metrorail access, the annual Bike DC ride and Bike to Work Day, and improved bicycle parking downtown. We were also happy to see the re-established bicycle advisory committee, funding for staff positions, and the development a long range bicycle plan." As an avid cyclist himself, Mayor Fenty can only be pleased with the progress being made in the District and what the future holds for cyclists here.
Most recently, Mayor Fenty oversaw the launch of the first bike-sharing program in the North America, SmartBike DC, with the goal of making available bicycle transportation to anyone in the District.
As the father of three and a public figure, Adrian is a role model for both his own children and children throughout the city. His desire to improve the lives of children in the district is evident through the progress that is being made to improve everything from district schools to bicycle access.
Jim Sebastian is the DC Department of Transportation Bicycle Program Manager. He leads the DDOT Bicycle Advisory Council, which advises Mayor Fenty and other members of DC government on cycling issues. He was instrumental in the deployment of SmartBike DC, the nation's first bike-sharing service, and has worked tirelessly to bring continued improvements to DC cycling.
- Judge's comments:
- "Jim and Adrian should be cloned! Would that more across our country had the foresight they have in making a city more truly bike friendly."
- "As Mayor of DC helped introduced SmartBike and has turned DC into one of the improved city for biking as rated by Bicycling magazine in 2008. Mayor Fenty is also know as an avid triathelete and takes time from his busy schedule to exercise/train and every now and then can be seen training with top local cyclists.
- "Mayor Fenty is not only talking the talk but walking the walk. He has supported many bicycling initiatives in DC, which are paving the way to make DC a more bike friendly city. He is an avid cyclist and is a great example of someone who makes time for physical activity no matter how busy his schedule.
