Bike Expo spotlight: Discussion panel

Image

We’ve got an exciting line-up for this year’s Seattle Bicycle Expo, to be held March 9 and 10. From thrilling stunt shows to DIY-crafts to inspiring presenters, Expo has it all. A special lineup of speakers and presentations will take to three separate stages, headlined by The Ryan Leech Stunt show, London 2012 silver medalist Jennie Reed, and photojournalist Mark Johnson. Leading up to the Seattle Bike Expo, we will highlight some of these presenters here on the blog.

"Do a little dance, make a little love"
How Seattle bicycle advocates, city staff and elected officials work together to complete projects
1:15 to 2:05 p.m.
Sunday
REI Main Stage (top floor)

Image

At Expo this weekend, we’ll host a panel discussion on how Seattle bicycle advocates, City staff and elected officials work together to complete projects

There is a subtle – and sometimes not-so-subtle – dance that occurs between activist/advocacy groups, city agency staff and elected officials when it comes to getting bicycle infrastructure built on the ground. Infrastructure proven to be safe, convenient and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities – things like cycle tracks, neighborhood greenways and urban trails – can often be controversial and opposed by people who don’t like the change in how we allocate space on our streets and public right of way. Indeed, just because there is a design and funding for a particular project doesn’t mean there is the community support or political will to build it.

The purpose of this panel is to candidly explore the interactions and synergy between grassroots advocacy organizations, Seattle Department of Transportation (DOT) staff and elected officials as projects and plans are designed, funded and implemented.