Politics & Government
County Approves $330 Million Bicycling Plan
The bike master plan aims to make the unincorporated areas of the county friendlier for cyclists. Meanwhile, the South Bay has its own proposed master plan.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved an update to its bicycle transit plan Tuesday, calling for about $330 million to be spent over 20 years to build new bikeways and support facilities and to pay for educational programs that encourage cycling.
The master plan was adopted in 1975 and work on the update has been underway since January 2009. The result includes 832 miles of new bike lanes and paths.
"The updated plan combines the vision of local communities and the county for the development of opportunities to increase cycling as a viable transit option for residents," said Supervisor Don Knabe. "While Los Angeles is known as a car culture, voters have told us time and again that they want options—be in public transit or bicycles—as a way to alleviate traffic congestion, improve air quality and enhance the health and quality of life in our communities."
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Supervisor Michael Antonovich raised concerns about whether the plan would draw funds away from other transit options.
"We've had to close bus lines," Antonovich said, later adding, "I have a problem."
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Monies will come from various Department of Public Works funds, including local return funds raised through Proposition C and Measure R.
Antonovich abstained from the vote, but the plan passed 4-0.
Editor's Note: Meanwhile, the South Bay Bike Master Plan was adopted last year in all seven participating cities for the local region, according to the South Bay Bicycle Coalition. The in October.
