Ride and Prejudice: Bicycle Project Funding in NH

If it weren’t bad enough that austere budgets are coming after well-established, successful programs like Social Security, now there’s a new target in the cross hairs: bicycling.

Funding for bicycling transportation is coming under assault nationwide, including in New Hampshire. A hearing was held October 26 on the New Hampshire Department of Transportation’s (DOT) ten-year transportation plan which makes significant cuts to bicycle and pedestrian funding.

“When you consider how little bicycle transportation funding costs compared to the other projects, it’s a shame to see its budget take such a hit,” said Josh Pierce, general manager of Portsmouth-based Papa Wheelies, and board member of Seacoast Area Bicycle Routes. “These types of projects give great bang for the buck, as multi-use can be used by cyclists, walkers, and even the disabled.”

“Plus, anything that gets folks into cities like Portsmouth, Dover, Durham, and Newburyport, which already have parking issues, without the use of cars is a good thing,” Pierce continued.

Tom Hemenway, owner of Exeter-based Ezee Bikes, mentioned the health benefits of bicycling projects supported by state funding. “Getting people moving helps New Hampshire’s health and wellness initiatives, so it fits in with the state’s broader strategy.” Ezee Bikes sells electric bikes that can alternate between human power and motor power at the rider’s discretion, and can be used on multi-use trails and other paved paths.

New Hampshire’s funding decisions could affect the 10-mile stretch of rail running from Portsmouth to Hampton that Pan Am has put up for sale, which advocates say could make an excellent off-road mutli-use path. The state has the first right of refusal on that land.

The suggested budget cuts come at a time when cycling as a form of transportation is becoming increasingly popular in New England. Boston, Massachusetts recently introduced a “Bike Share” program designed to increase the use of bicycles in and around the city, and participation far exceeded expectations.

Unfortunately, that program also produced a backlash among those opposed to public funding for bicycling in an automobile-intensive culture. But Boston city officials cite the program’s success at reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and the fact that studies have found that bike-sharing programs result in more lives saved from the extra exercise than lives lost due to bike accidents and exposure to air pollution.

Both Papa Wheelies and Ezee Bikes are members of the Green Alliance, which connects conscientious consumers with local businesses in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts. Green Alliance’s consumer members get discounts at Papa Wheelies and Ezee Bikes, as well as ninety other sustainable businesses across the region.

In the meantime, cycling and walking advocates can only await the DOT’s decision on funding for projects that accommodate non-vehicle transportation.

“We shouldn’t have to choose between vehicle and human-powered transportation in a state as beautiful as New Hampshire,” concluded Pierce.

For more information:

Papa Wheelies: www.papa-wheelies.com

Ezee Bikes: www.ezee-bikes.com

Green Alliance: www.greenalliance.biz

Seacoast Area Bike Routes:  www.seacoastbikes.org