A New Vision for a Safer Florida: Why We Refined Our Mission
For years, the Florida Bicycle Association has been the steady voice for those who pedal across the Sunshine State. But Florida is changing. Our roads are busier, our communities are growing, and the need for a truly connected, low-stress bicycling network has never been more urgent.
To meet this moment, we didn't just sit in a room and brainstorm, we listened. We looked at the data from our recent statewide surveys and engaged in tough, honest conversations with supporters, local partners, and even our most vocal detractors.
The message was clear: It’s time to raise the bar.
Moving Beyond "Just a Lane"
One of the most significant shifts in our new mission is a focus on low-stress bicycling. We know that for most Floridians, a stripe of white paint next to 45-mph traffic isn't enough. You told us you want to feel safe taking your kids to school or riding to the grocery store without constant anxiety.
Our refined mission reflects that reality:
Our New Mission:
The Florida Bicycle Association champions safer, low-stress, and accessible bicycling across Florida by shaping policy, improving infrastructure, and influencing behavior through advocacy, education, and strategic partnerships.
Four Pillars for a Better Ride
To turn this mission into reality, we have established four core strategies that will guide every dollar we spend and every meeting we attend:
Advocacy & Policy Influence: We are moving the needle at the state and local levels to improve safety and access for people on bicycles..
Infrastructure & Planning Partnerships: We are working directly with FDOT, MPOs, planners, and nonprofits to ensure "low-stress" isn't just a buzzword, but a standard that advances safer bicycle networks.
Education & Safety Leadership: Safety is a two-way street. We are providing the resources to improve rider behavior and, most crucially, increase motorist awareness.
Expanding Our Reach: To win big, we need a bigger engine. We are building the sustainable funding and professional staffing required to have a presence in every corner of the state.
New Tools for a Modern Mission
One of the changes you have likely already noticed is that we are expanding our communication tools and trying new things to reach a broader audience. This includes our recent move to Substack.
We know this shift has been a bit surprising for some, and we’ve heard the feedback—both the excitement and the hesitation. In the spirit of "Expanding Our Reach," we are testing these new platforms to find the best way to keep you informed in real-time.
However, we want you to have total control over your inbox. If the more frequent Substack updates aren't for you, you can always unsubscribe from those specific emails while keeping your subscription to our standard, monthly member and supporter newsletter. Our goal is to be your voice, not a burden on your inbox.
Because You Deserve Better
Our new tagline is more than just a slogan—it’s a commitment: "Your voice for safer bicycling in Florida—because we deserve better."
For too long, Florida has topped the lists for bicycle-related fatalities. We refuse to accept that as the status quo. You deserve a state where the "low-stress" option is the default option. You deserve roads designed for people, not just throughput.
We are energized, we are focused, and we are ready to fight for the riding experience you’ve been asking for. Thank you for being part of this journey. Let's build a Florida where every ride is safer.
