Moving Planet New Jersey

Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in New Jersey. Our coalition is calling for a better sustainable transportation plan for the state and our communities.  We want our state leaders to improve the public transportation system and to make bicycling safer, particularly between Newark and Jersey City.

Join the New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition and our partners, Brick City Bike Collective, Bike Bloustein Walk Bloustein, Bike Jersey City, Bike & Walk Montclair, East Coast Greenway Alliance, Newark Bike Exchange, Trenton Cycling Revolution and others for a rally and ride in Newark.

We will gather in Washington Park in Newark, which is adjacent to the Washington Park Light Rail Station, and between Newark Penn Station and the Broad Street Station. We will ride along a public art route, generously provided by Brick City Bike Collective, taking in murals, statues, sculptures, fountains and fantastic architectural features, winding our way through several parks, universities and few hidden historic gems.  The ride is approximately 10 miles and should take approximately 1 hour. There may be potholes and broken glass along the route, with some uphill riding. We recommend participants use a hybrid, mountain, town or commuting bike. Fixed gear and/or racing bikes with thin tires would not be advisable. Helmets are required!

Participants are invited to bring any extra bicycles and donate them to the Boys and Girls Club Bike Exchange of Newark.

We originally planned a leisurely ride along the East Coast Greenway, with a quick stop for a picture in Liberty State Park, against the backdrop of the Statue of Liberty. Unfortunately, New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition had to abandon this idea when investigation showed the route to be unridable safely by bicycle. Organizers will urge consideration for the question, "Why can't someone travel directly between two major New Jersey cities without being surrounded by two-tons plus of protective steel?" In a month when Governor Cuomo announced he will sign a Complete Streets law for New York State, New Jersey's Final Transportation Capital Program for Fiscal Year 2012 included several new and significant road projects while reducing funds for bicycle and pedestrian programs.

All are welcome to join us on September 24 and demand a different approach.