We are listening

Thanks to all our members who have offered their support, questions and concerns. Your spirited response shows that our membership is active and engaged. I want to let you know that we are listening. Please feel free to call or e-mail me (rob@activetrans.org or 312.427.3325 x228).

You can learn more about this change http://activetrans.org/our-new-name/faq. If you missed the meeting or want to learn more, this is the place.

I want to address a couple of concerns that we’re hearing.

1. Are you giving up on bicycles? Will this dilute your bicycle advocacy?

Bicycling is the heart of our organization. After nearly 25 years of advancing bicycling, we learned that to take our bicycling advocacy to the next level, we had to look at the bigger transportation picture. We know our expanded mission and name change will only strengthen our bicycle opportunities, and we will always fight for bicycles. Building safer intersections, creating better transit opportunities, getting more cars off the road, and educating drivers on safe, responsible behavior will only make it better for bicyclists.

We’re proud of our membership and our work as the voice for Chicagoland bicyclists.

2. Why weren’t members involved in the decision to expand the mission and change the name?

Our board of directors, elected by members, represents our membership. The board of directors had the legal responsibility to guide this process, and it involved our members, volunteers, etc. as much as possible. The board went through an extensive process (surveys, focus groups, research, etc.) with members, partners, staff, board and volunteers to expand the mission and change the name.

Of course, no process is perfect; but we hope that those of you who are concerned or waiting to see what happens will stick with us. We don’t want to lose your critical voices that keep us on our toes. If you want to get more involved with our organization, please contact me directly.

We truly believe this new direction is the right one for bicyclists and all road users.

Sincerely,
Rob Sadowsky