Originally Posted by
davidmcowan
I read about infrastructure and culture but I'm curious, why hasn't anyone mentioned advocacy? I am a little biased here, but Bike Denver and Bicycle Colorado are two organizations here in Colorado that are constantly on the lookout to improve conditions in Denver (and the state). If you don't have a well staffed organization like this who is watching the legislature for changes in the law that will affect bicycling, who is pushing for laws that will positively impact the cycling community? Who is educating drivers and cyclists on what they should be doing? Who is getting kids excited about riding and teaching them the skills they need to become part of the cycling army in your city?
That's basically my point...not even just advocacy, but general interest. It's the people, the culture here in the city, that drives bicycle friendly legislation.
I also don't think you'd call it a bike haven if there weren't cyclists, even with all the infrastructure in place.
Small businesses will recognize cycling, too, and make their stores more cycle friendly with things like racks, art, and other conveniences.
I think if more people in Ontario just rode then the interest in the community would garner attention from the government.