News Briefs

Alliance offers Open Streets resources • Volkswagen is a new title sponsor at Sea Otter • Dahon honored by Taiwan award

WASHINGTON, DC (BRAIN) Feb 22, 10:44 MT—The Alliance for Biking & Walking is working with the Street Plans Collaborative to promote open streets — the temporary closure of city streets to motorized vehicles to build communities and encourage active transportation.

The two groups have launched a website and published a guide to help communities plan the open street events.

The website, www.OpenStreetsProject.org, showcases dozens of current initiatives across the continent. The Open Streets Guide features best practices from 67 initiatives.
 
“Open Streets initiatives are transformational for people and their communities,” said Jeffrey Miller, alliance president and CEO. “When communities open their streets to people, they inspire citizens to see their roads as public spaces, and provide a welcoming gateway for residents to engage in healthy lifestyles and active transportation.”


Volkswagen of America joins Sea Otter Classic as title sponsor
 
MONTEREY, CA (BRAIN) Feb 22, 10:50 MT—Volkswagen of America, Inc. is joining the Sea Otter Classic as the title sponsor.
 
The event, which takes place April 19-22 at Laguna Seca Recreation Area near Monterey, is now called the Volkswagen Sea Otter Classic Powered by SRAM.
 
This year’s Sea Otter will feature some changes, including the addition of cyclocross racing, an expanded kids riding area, an invitational downhill skateboarding exhibition, and enhanced outreach for female cyclists.
 
“Sea Otter provides us with the perfect partnership to expand on our commitment to environmental sustainability that goes beyond fuel-efficient vehicles,” said Jonathan Browning, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. “

Volkswagen has also recently partnered with Bikes Belong to support development of bike-friendly communities and create a cleaner environment.


 

Dahon receives first annual Taipei Design & Innovation Award

DUARTE, CA (BRAIN) Feb 22, 11:02 MT—DUARTE, CA (BRAIN) Feb 22, 11:14 MT—Dahon has been awarded a Taipei Cycle Design & Innovation Award for its EEZZ bike, operating under prototype name, Metro.

The new 16-inch wheel model weighs 9kg and can be folded or assembled in less than seven seconds.

The Taipei Cycle D&I Awards are organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council in collaboration with the Taiwan Bicycle Exporters’ Association. 207 products were entered into this year’s competition and five of the 74 winners will be awarded the Gold Award at Taipei Cycle Show next month.


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