We have a new board member at TWBC. Tom Butler has volunteered to be the Community and Government Relations Director. TWBC has benefited immensely from the work that has been done by Bob Myrick over the years. Tom looks to keep current initiatives moving forward and finding new opportunities to organize outreach and specific projects that make a difference.
As cyclists, we know firsthand the challenges of navigating our area streets and trails. Infrastructure gaps affect our rides and limit cycling's potential as a safe, enjoyable transportation and recreation activity for Tacoma residents. We believe it is important to have a board position focused on community and government relations to advance the TWBC mission to support safe cycling, advocate for better biking infrastructure, and foster a welcoming cycling community for riders of all skill levels. Here are three key reasons why local advocacy is a focus at TWBC even with statewide organizations like Washington Bikes working at the state level.
1. Local Issues Require Local Voices
Most cycling infrastructure decisions happen right here in our neighborhoods. City council meetings, county planning sessions, and local transportation committees are where bike lanes get approved, where trail connections are planned, and where safety improvements are prioritized.
Our Community and Government Relations Director works to organize resources that help ensure that area cyclists have a dedicated voice in local conversations. TWBC members understand the specific challenges and the unique opportunities presented by both our diverse rural topography and the busy urban layout. State-level advocacy, while essential, doesn’t address the granular, location-specific needs that make or break a cyclist's daily experience in Pierce County.
2. Building Bridges with Community Partners
Effective advocacy isn't just about showing up to government meetings—it's about building coalitions with like-minded organizations that share our vision for a more bike-friendly community. The Community and Government Relations Director actively cultivates relationships with environmental groups, public health organizations, neighborhood associations, and other community partners who understand that better bike infrastructure benefits everyone.
When we work alongside groups advocating for cleaner air, safer streets for pedestrians, or more accessible transportation options, our collective voice becomes much more powerful. These partnerships help city leaders see that investing in bike infrastructure isn't just about serving cyclists—it's about creating healthier, more sustainable, and more equitable communities for all residents.
3. Showcasing the Joy and Benefits of Cycling
Perhaps most importantly, the Community and Government Relations Director helps to organize ways for TWBC to translate the positive energy of our group rides and events into local community impact. There's something infectious about seeing a group of enthusiastic cyclists exploring our city's neighborhoods, discovering new routes, and clearly enjoying their time outdoors. When we participate in community events, lead group rides through different parts of the city, or simply maintain a visible, positive presence on our local roads and trails, we're doing advocacy work.
This kind of "soft advocacy" demonstrates that cycling isn't just about transportation or exercise—it's about community, exploration, and quality of life. When city planners and elected officials see engaged, happy cyclists actively using and enjoying our local infrastructure, it makes the case for continued investment in ways that statistics and policy papers alone cannot achieve.
Please share the issue that you see as important to improve local cycling. And let us know if you are interested in volunteering to help build connections with other organizations. A unified voice is crucial in this tight fiscal environment and we would love to have more members building relationships all around the region.
