California Proposition 1B and cycling

One of the issues California voters will decide in November is Proposition 1B. If passed, this proposition will allow the state of California to borrow $40 billion for transportation spending over the next twenty years.

Many local and regional cycling advocacy groups in California are neutral on 1B because improved roads are beneficial to cyclists as well as motorists. 1B also earmarks significant funding for public transporation projects.

The California Bicycle Coalition and San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, however, both oppose 1B. According to the CBC:

The bond proposes to expand California's automobile infrastructure and highway capacity, which will encourage ever more motor vehicle trips, causing air and water pollution. Expanded highway capacity will undermine the minimal transit investments proposed by continuing to make driving the most convenient transportation mode, stranding those who cannot afford or choose not to drive a car.

Collectively, the bicycle transportation plans developed by regional transportation planning agencies around the state have identified over $4.3 billion in bicycle projects. Despite CBC's diligent and patient work with legislators, no funds are earmarked for bicycle projects by Prop 1B.