For the third consecutive cycle, Shaker Heights has been designated a bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) by the League of American Bicyclists. The City has held this distinction since 2016.
Shaker Heights is one of 460 communities across the country — and just 19 in Ohio — to be recognized by the BFC program for a strong commitment to bicycle friendly policies, education and infrastructure.
“Bicycling is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a powerful tool for building healthier communities, fostering sustainability, and connecting people,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists. “The cities, regions, and towns recognized in this round of Bicycle Friendly Community awards are leading the way by investing in infrastructure and programs that make biking an easier, safer, and more accessible choice. Their leadership demonstrates that supporting bicycling is an investment in a healthier future for everyone.”
Projects that helped secure the City being a repeat recipient include planning for future bikeways on Van Aken Boulevard and Lee Road and the completion of the Lower Lake Multipurpose Trail in 2024. This new trail fills a gap in the Lake-to-Lakes Trail, a critical 6-mile multipurpose trail from Lake Erie to the Shaker Lakes.
The BFC award must be renewed every four years through a rigorous application process that considers not only infrastructure, but also education and events, including those promoting equity around bicycling. Being selected depends upon five areas of criteria known as the 5 E’s:
- Equity & Accessibility
- Engineering
- Education
- Encouragement
- Evaluation & Planning
The City would like to thank the Shaker Historical Society, Heights Bicycle Coalition and Bike Cleveland for their ongoing collaboration with the City around bicycling, including their contributions to the Bicycle Friendly Community application process.
To learn more about the BFC program, visit https://bikeleague.org/91-places-earned-bicycle-friendly-community-awards-in-2024. To learn more about bicycling in Shaker, visit shakerheightsoh.gov/256/Bikes-Hikes.