Getting There On Two Wheels

How Municipalities are investing in bicycle infrastructure

Connecticut has a long history with the bicycle that not many know about. Pierre Lallement patented the modern pedal bicycle in New Haven, before moving back to his home country of France. That design would go on to be made in Hartford as the brand of Columbia bicycles. Here are some updates that might encourage you to get out on the road on two wheels.

New Haven: We are starting where it all began—or ends? One of the final segments of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail opened in early May as part of a larger expansion of the East Coast Greenway. Much of the Canal Trail is off-road multi-use trail that can take an enterprising rider from Long Wharf near the CCM offices all the way up to Springfield, Massachusetts, much of which had been completed over the past 20 years.

The missing piece was in development for such a long time because the old Canal path happens to pass right through the FBI complex on State Street. Today, some of the trail continues to streets, but completes a much more accessible ride from northern New Haven into Hamden.

Hamden: That’s where our next story takes place. Hamden High School as part of their larger “Complete Streets” efforts, is encouraging the next generation of cyclists with the installation of bicycle repair stations at Hamden High School. According to information from a New Haven Register article, there will be two stands, a bike pump, communal bike locks, and extra bike racks. The project was funded by a microgrant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Manchester: The town of Manchester every year hosts the Charter Oak Park Gear & Bike Shop which hosts a “number of seasonal events and special drop-in activities.” They go a step further than Hamden though, bringing us back to the East Coast Greenway, by making yellow bikes and scooter rentals available for residents who may want to explore the bike trails. Finally, and most importantly, people must be safe when they are biking in areas with pedestrians and cars. There are a few key concepts that should be followed, notably, you should always wear a bicycle helmet when riding, and make sure you are doing so properly. Additionally, the NHTSA suggest riding with the flow of traffic (except where otherwise noted), obey all road laws as if you were in a car (stopping at a stop sign), and be mindful of the road and try to avoid any hazards before they happen.

With our long history with the bicycle, it’s no surprise that so many towns and cities try to encourage people to get out on their bicycles. It’s crucial that if you do, you get out there in a safe and mindful manner, but most importantly, have fun!