[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 58 (Thursday, May 5, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E896]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             INTRODUCTION OF NATIONAL BIKE MONTH RESOLUTION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 5, 2005

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a resolution in 
support of National Bike Month. The League of American Bicyclists has 
celebrated every May since 1956 as National Bike Month. With this 
resolution, Congress will recognize the enormous role bicycling has in 
our lives. This month provides an opportunity to promote the benefits 
of cycling, appreciate those in the cycling community, and to encourage 
bicycle safety.
  Bicycling is one of the cleanest, healthiest, most efficient, and 
environmentally friendly modes of transportation that exists. It is the 
most efficient form of urban transportation in history. There are over 
57 million adult cyclists in the United States, 5 million of whom 
choose to commute to work by bike. This transportation choice helps 
ease congestion on our roads and reduce environmental pollution while 
allowing cyclists to incorporate exercise into their everyday lives. In 
an age of high energy prices, overcrowded roads, and a growing obesity 
epidemic, biking is more important to the well being of our communities 
than ever before.
  Communities throughout the Nation have reaped the positive benefits 
of biking. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 
bicycles are second only to cars as a preferred mode of transportation. 
National Bike Month provides the opportunity to recognize the 
significant impact of this noble invention and to inform others of the 
healthy, environmental, efficient, and neighborhood-friendly form of 
transportation.

                          ____________________