Thank You Rep. Janet Cruz of Tampa For Supporting Bicycling and The BAM Network

My Fellow Members of the Hillsborough Legislative Delegation:

I am writing to express my support for the expansion of the “BAM Network” for Bicycle Area Mobility. Aside from the inherent road safety benefits, the BAM Network promises to provide significant benefits in health, the economy and jobs, and tourism.

Attached is information about BAM and contact information for the director, Alan Snel of the South West Florida Bicycle United Dealers (SWFBUD) organization. Also attached is a letter of support.

I urge you all to write a letter of support for the BAM network so that our local government can see that the State is in support of this initiative. Alan is collecting letters from each Representative and Senator to submit in a packet to Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, The Hillsborough County Commissioners, The Tampa City Councilmembers and the local MPO.

Janet Cruz

Here is Janet's letter of support:

January 11, 2012

Alan Snel, Director
South West Florida Bicycle United Dealers

Dear SWFBUD:

I am writing to express my support for the expansion of the “BAM Network” for Bicycle Area Mobility. The construction of the three multi-use trails in this project will tremendously improve Hillsborough County and the city of Tampa. The project will add 30 miles of safe, paved trails, creating an integrated and cohesive network for riders, and more effective transportation for all. Aside from the inherent road safety benefits, the BAM Network promises to provide significant benefits in health, the economy and jobs, and tourism.

Studies have shown large correlations among the amount of developed bicycle, and pedestrian trails in a city, and better health, higher rates of creativity, and more job opportunities and successful small businesses. Expanding the trails will also promote exploration and appreciation of our local gems of culture, heritage, and history by tourists and residents alike. I believe that the BAM Network will holistically improve our community and will contribute to a higher quality of life for all of us who call Tampa Bay home. My colleagues on both sides of the aisle agree that the BAM Network has the potential to help reenergize our city. I hope you will stand up with me for the BAM Network and Tampa Bay as we move our community forward.

Sincerely,

Janet Cruz
Florida State Representative, District 58

CC: The Honorable Bob Buckhorn, Mayor
Tampa City Council
Hillsborough County Commission
Hllsborough County Metropolitan Planning Organization