SECONDARY RESEARCH-FINAL

Social, Political, and Economic Context
As a new non-profit, it is important for I Am RVA to analyze the current environment surrounding
bicyclists and bicycle safety efforts here in Richmond. The following are findings on the social,
political, and economic factors that may have an effect on the organization. Additional information
that may not have any positive or negative effect on I Am RVA, but is still important to make note of
and, can be found at the end of this section.
I Am RVA Opportunities
Need and Want for Bicycle Safety and Education
In 2011, the Science Museum of Virginia held an event in which bicycling advocates spoke out on
making Richmond a safer area for bicyclists (WILLIAMS, 2011). The speaker, Tim Miller, explained
how the community could make Richmond more bike friendly. The event had over 150 attendees.
Also in 2011, a resolution to support bicycle safety and road sharing was adopted by The Board of
Supervisors who said, “It is important to raise public awareness of the many benefits of bicycling, to
promote bicycle safety, and to encourage bicycle riding through organized activities. Bicyclists and
motorists have the same rights and duties, and the law governing traffic regulation apply equally to
both.” (Silverstri, 2012).
According to The Richmond Times Dispatch, “The Sheriff’s Office has always recognized the need
to meet with and educate cyclists of all ages from preschoolers to adults, in order to promote safe
cycling in the country. (Silverstri, 2012).
This shows that people are aware that there is a problem with safety and many people want that
to change, this puts I Am RVA in the position to promote bicycle safety and use of safety gear. This
current environment of Richmonders wanting change shows that there is a need for I Am RVA and
their efforts.
In 2011, the Virginia Department of Transportation hired on a Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trails
Coordinator, Jakob Helmbolt, who set out to make Richmond motorist and cyclists “street smart.”
Helmbolt stated, “It’s very much a messaging and educational thing for motorists and bicyclists,”
Helmboldt said. “It says to motorists that there should be a heightened expectation of encountering
bicyclists on these particular roads.” He was also quotes saying, “So the next step is “addressing
education for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians ... and just encouraging people to take advantage
of those opportunities.” (Thompson, 2011)
The current lack of education amongst bicyclists and motorists presents I Am RVA with the
opportunity to educate the community on bicycle rules and regulations.
According to the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS), In 2013, 68% of bicyclist deaths in the
U.S. were in urban areas.
These statistics show the need for bicycle safety and education in urban cities (including Richmond).
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