I don't usually post on threads like this, but feel I can contribute on this one.

I have noticed a slow trend here in my little town of 12,000. When I first got back on a bike here, I appeared to be the only one, at least for the first year or so. Now, 5 years later, I can't go anywhere without meeting or seeing another cyclist. Maybe I started a trend? The majority of them are adults, with only a few school aged youngsters.

For the most part, these other cyclists appear to be trim and fit, with the occasional "clydesdale" like me. The point being, that because they are seeing me out there every day, it is becoming more accepted to be seen on a bike.

While I cannot be sure, the slow increase in cyclists here appears to have brought some action from the city council. An ordinance has been passed requiring cagers to give at least 3' clearance when passing a bicycle.
It could have come about due to the high incidences of motorists passing me and other cyclists with only inches to spare, and being seen doing this by members of our council. So far, there doesn't seem to have been any reports of cyclists having gotten hit by anyone, but that may only be a matter of time.

I am primarily a utility rider, using the bike on my daily paper deliveries (see post in "what utility rides" thread). I prefer to use the bike for my trips to the hardware store etc. over using the car or truck. Gets me there and back in the same amount of time as it would using powered vehicles.