Bike Advocacy
In the summer of 2005, J.V. Peacock, the owner of Outpost Sports, attended a "Paint The Town" meeting on initiating bike lanes in South Bend. Great strides have been made to accomplish the goals set at this meeting.
J.V. became co-chair of the Michiana Bike to Work Week a year ago. He was instrumental in improving the BTW numbers from 125 in 2007 to 487 in 2008. JV's plan was not only to get more people involved with bicycle commuting but to also awaken the community’s conscience to the advantages of bicycle transportation in general. The entire Michiana area responded enthusiastically. People ended up commuting to work throughout the fall and winter.
Since the BTW success, the evolution and concept of the Bike Michiana Coalition has evolved. This is a non-profit 501 C corporation whose sole goal is to seek a more bike friendly community by:
- Encouraging bicycling for commuting and recreation.
- Expanding and improving bicycle infrastructure.
- Educate citizens and government about bicycle safety laws and the community's benefits of cycling.
The BMC focuses its initiatives on the following:
- Michiana Bike to Work Week
- Bicycle Friendly Communities
- South Bend Bike Lanes
- Granger Paths
- County Bike Lanes
- BMC Hospice Ride
J.V. spends countless hours working on the success and goals of all these programs. His undying enthusiasm is fueled by the success BMC has reached, and the terrific potential that Michiana has for becoming a bike friendly community.
His personal motto is "Go Outside and Get Some Fresh Air". The love of the bike allowed him to log over 4000 miles in 2008 and 2009 miles are now being racked up. His vision for improving health and well being in Michiana can be achieved by getting your "Butt in the Saddle".