[SAINT PAUL, MN] – Four new Minnesota companies have been recognized as Bicycle Friendly Businesses (BFBs) by the League of American Bicyclists (LAB). Minnesota, the fifth most bicycle-friendly state in the U.S., now boasts 112 BFBs.
“I’m thrilled Paul Nye is being recognized at the Platinum level for his bike shop in Walker. What a gem in that community and of humble service to anyone riding the Paul Bunyan Trail who might need an unexpected rescue and bike repair, which they can have completed while stopping in town for lunch or a beer within walking distance from the shop,” said Natalie Gille, Greater Minnesota Program Manager. “The Pine-River Backus school district is very interested in the Walk Bike Fun Curriculum and has already trained a few of their teachers. School staff and the chamber have been involved in the Bicycle-Friendly Assessment project with BikeMN and the bank offered up space for one of our project team meetings, so it’s great to see them come through with awards this round to recognize them for their contributions to making Pine River more bicycle-friendly.”
Four of Minnesota’s new Bicycle Friendly Businesses are located in Pine River, Minnesota, all four achieving a Bronze level ranking. Congratulations to Backus Schools, the Pine River Chamber of Commerce, the Pine River State Bank, and Wheels & Things. Pine River also had one honorable mention, Gallery of Homes.
Walker, Minnesota, has nine Bicycle Friendly Businesses, and the League recently moved Back Street Bicycle Service & Repair from a Gold to a Platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Business ranking.
“Every May, National Bike Month and Bike to Work Week mark a celebration of the joy bikes bring us and a chance to recognize those who help others find extra inspiration to get out and get moving by bike, like these 45 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Businesses,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists. “Just as the League believes bikes should be celebrated every day, a Bicycle Friendly Business is the kind of employer or destination that offers encouragement, education, and resources to help commuters, both in their staff and in their surrounding communities, bike safely and confidently year-round and the League of American Bicyclists is proud to honor that commitment.”
Bikes are good for businesses and their employees. Through this BFB program, employers across the country are recognized for their efforts to encourage a more welcoming atmosphere for bicycling employees, customers, and the community. Deserving businesses are recognized at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels and all applicants receive valuable feedback and assistance in becoming more welcoming to bicycling.
Spring of 2022 BFB Recognition:
- Back Street Bicycle Service & Repair, Moved from Gold to Platinum
- Backus Schools, Bronze Award
- Pine River Chamber of Commerce, Bronze Award
- Pine River State Bank, Bronze Award
- Wheels & Things LLC, Bronze Award
More about BikeMN:
The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN) envisions a Minnesota where every person everywhere can easily walk, bike, and roll as ways to move in daily life. BikeMN engages people, provides education, and advocates for biking and walking. Visit www.bikemn.org to learn more about local advocacy around Minnesota.
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