Day: July 29, 2009

Wade Crowfoot, Mayor Gavin Newsom's Director of Climate Change Initiatives, quietly transitioned out of his role in city government last Friday to become the West Coast Legislative and Political Director at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), a new post created just for him. His portfolio will be primarily climate, water safety, and oceans. Transportation and transit won't be as central to his work as it was for Mayor Newsom, except as it relates to climate change.

The Senate panel in charge of transportation spending has just released its version of the budget bill that passed the House last week, giving less to high-speed rail and more to highways than the lower chamber of Congress.

Four Democratic senators introduced legislation today that would offer states a choice: ban texting and e-mailing while driving within two years or lose 25 percent of their federal highway money.

"After years of debate, many scientists tracking energy supplies believe we're past the peak rate of oil production. Statistics show that output peaked in 2008. Will the gap be filled using different energy sources? How will declining oil supplies impact societies dependent on cheap, convenient energy? What about our own families and communities? Join SFBC member, Michael Poremba, and get the skinny on peak oil, and learn how local communities are responding to peak oil and related global issues, such as climate change."

"Everyone is welcome."

"This four-hour in-classroom, introductory course is perfect for new cyclists and those want to feel more comfortable riding on city streets. Class will cover the basics for how to choose the right bike and properly fit a helmet. Learn tips for the safest ways to ride in traffic, techniques to avoid or deal with road hazards and emergency maneuvers along with other useful gems of knowledge, like the best way to lock up your bike and how to use a bike in combination with public transit, and cyclists' legal rights and responsibilities. Adults and anyone over 14 years of age are welcome, preregistration is required. Bring your lunch or dinner. No bicycle is needed for this class. Note: This class is the "day 1" course for League of American Bicyclists' Bike Ed Road I certification."

"Talk policy points or trade political gossip with Supervisor Eric Mar on this jolly monthly tradition — catch a rocking Richmond District bike bus and roll downtown with Eric and a merry band of D1 velocitizens. Top up your tires and get on the bike bus!"

"Come represent cyclist and pedestrians to make sure the SF Planning Department incorporates the best designs and options in the new Mission Streetscape Plan! Have your say on what you'd like this important street should look like."

"The SFBC Service Station will be out the Golden Gate Bridge with everything you need to ensure a smooth ride: self-service lube & pump and delicious fuel for you!"