SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 444

WHEREAS, BikeTexas represents thousands of people who ride bikes in the Lone Star State; and

WHEREAS, Millions of Texans ride bicycles for fitness, recreation, and transportation each year; bicycling provides mobility options for families, creative class workers, and aging populations; bicycling has been identified as an activity that could reduce the cost of health care; and

WHEREAS, Bicycle and accessory sales contribute more than $20 million annually in sporting goods sales taxes, which is the primary source of funding for our state parks system; people who ride bicycles contribute more than $50 million per year to Texas charities; charity bicycle events and bicycle tourism have a positive impact on local economies; and

WHEREAS, Engineering advances in protected bike lanes offer greater safety to those who ride bicycles; bike lanes near businesses have been proven to increase revenues; bike trails increase nearby residential property values; mountain bike ranches provide a nonagricultural source of rural income; and

WHEREAS, Bicycle advocates have worked hard for over two decades to enhance the safety of Texas roadways for all road users, and it is indeed fitting to recognize this outstanding work; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby commend BikeTexas for its ongoing efforts and its dedication to improving bicycle safety and extend sincere best wishes for continued success to its board of directors, staff, members, and volunteers; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for BikeTexas as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Ellis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 30, 2015.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate