TO THE EDITOR: THE NORTHFIELD NEWS THE LEAGUE of American Bicyclists (LAB) recently announced its rankings of "bicycle friendliness" for all 50 states. Vermont was ranked at 34, a significant drop from its 2009 ranking of 21. In 2008, the first year of the LAB rankings, Vermont was 17.

So, 17 to 21 to 34. Vermont is dropping precipitously. A primary reason for this rapid and abrupt decline is that other states are moving ahead with bike/ped friendly infrastructure, policies, and legislation while Vermont stands still.

To be fair, it's important to point out that the rankings were

prepared before Act 114 (the Safe Passing law) was signed on May 20.

But even had this legislation been included, it probably would not have been enough to shift the direction.

Frustrating but true: VTrans has summer staff taking traffic counts in various locations statewide. These staffers count bicyclists as passenger vehicles because there are only four categories on the counting devices. A person pushing a bicycle is counted as a pedestrian. The results of these counts, therefore, indicate that no one is bicycling! (For details on why VTrans won't be changing this setup, read the article in the next VBPC newsletter.)

Vermont can do and must do better. Vermont needs elected officials who will work to secure funding for bike/ped infrastructure and who will advocate for legislation that enhances the safety of our roadways for bicyclists, runners, walkers, and other vulnerable roadway users.

Thanks for continuing to support the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian

Coalition as we work for much-needed change.

NANCY SCHULZ Vermont Bike/Ped Coalition