Bainbridge Island highlighted its recent Bronze Award from the League of American Bicyclists at its March 11 City Council meeting.

“We want to take pride in this and recognize the council for the role that you played in this recognition,” city manager Blair King said.

The city partnered with Squeaky Wheels, the BI School District, and Kitsap Transit, said Hannah Betcher, Sustainable Transportation coordinator. “This designation recognizes community, businesses, organizations and colleges across the nation for their excellence in providing safe bicycling infrastructure for their communities.”

Betcher said the award represents the hard work between various departments including Public Works and Planning. The award is scored on five categories: engineering, encouragement, education & planning, equity and accessibility. “The application is extensive and covers infrastructure, education and equity programs related to bicycling,” Betcher said.

Designation is valid through 2028. Throughout that time COBI can increase its designation to gold. “We have some room to grow. There’s opportunities to increase education and equity programs.”