Good News From The U S DOT

The following is an announcement from the U S Department of Transportation. As an introduction, almost every dollar that is spent on transportation infrastructure comes from the U S DOT. It would be sweeter still if there is a link between the receipt of DOT money and proposals for bike/ped facilities. Maybe then we will get the Lake Woebegon Trail finished.

On Monday, March 15th, US DOT Secretary Ray LaHood announced a new “complete streets” policy that would put planning for bicycling and pedestrians on equal footing with highways and transit. In his blog, Secretary LaHood states that “this is the end of favoring motorized transportation at the expense of non-motorized.”

He goes on to say:

“We are integrating the needs of bicyclists in federally-funded road projects. We are discouraging transportation investments that negatively affect cyclists and pedestrians. And we are encouraging investments that go beyond the minimum requirements and provide facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities.

To set this approach in motion, we have formulated key recommendations for state DOTs and communities:

· Treat walking and bicycling as equals with other transportation modes.

· Ensure convenient access for people of all ages and abilities.

· Go beyond minimum design standards.

· Collect data on walking and biking trips.

· Set a mode share target for walking and bicycling.

· Protect sidewalks and shared-use paths the same way roadways are protected (for example, snow removal)

· Improve nonmotorized facilities during maintenance projects”.

The new US DOT Policy Statement on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and Recommendations are posted on FHWA’s website.

Is it Summer Yet?

We all know that there is plenty of winter left, but the vast majority of people coming into the store are shopping for bikes!

Anyhow, snow is forecast for Monday. So, take advantage of all of the incredible bargains in the shop and get outside!

Crass Commercialism!

SO WHAT!

Just in case you haven't heard, we're having an early season clearance sale! Savings from 30 to 50% on ski equipment and clothing. BUT WAIT! if you call in the next 10 minutes, we'll double the offer - WAIT! I'm suffering from media confusion ... we'd really like to throw in the free back scratcher and the premium quality terry cloth bath robe but alas, this is not an infomercial it's an honest to goodness bike/ski shop and we wanted you all to know that there are some real bargains to be had.

Hope to see you real soon.

Good Bye 2009!

Thanks to everyone for helping to make 2009 another good year at Revolution Cycle and Ski. I wish we could say that the economic slowdown had no effect but, all things considered, we're happy. Let's all hope that 2010 brings as much happiness and good health as possible to everyone.

As for us, we're adding Cervelo to our line up of bicycles and we are really looking forward to supporting some new bike racers and the new Duathlon/Triathlon team, DuTri St. Cloud.

Good luck to one and all during 2010!

Local XC Trails are Groomed

This is some of the new grooming equipment that Stearns County is using to keep the trails in Quarry Park in great shape. Note the reverse plow on the front which is used when there is minimal snow. Pretty nifty!

It's Winter!

Don't have much to say except BURRR ... I like the picture though!

Snow's in the Forecast

Real winter is coming ... if the forecast is correct, we'll wake up Wednesday morning to a few inches of new snow! YEA! We hope that everyone is ready to get out and enjoy the snow. If not though, let this serve as a reminder that we've got lots of Cross Country skis, clothing and equipment in stock and ready to custom fit to you. We also have Easton Artica snowshoes. Hope to see you soon.