German Chancellor calls bicycles part of mobility solution

Addressing an invite-only audience of media and industry leaders, Merkel spoke of the bicycle as a mobility solution on par with automobiles. “I believe it is just as important as the international auto trade fair that I am going to open in a few days,” Merkel said of Eurobike. “ The bicycle combines what is pleasurable and useful. It is friendly to the environment and promotes health.”

She said it is worthwhile for the country to create an atmosphere conducive to bicycle growth, including the necessary conditions for bicycles. Her government earmarked 70 million euros to build bicycle trails and set goals as part of a 2020 bicycle transportation plan. “It is not an either-or choice,” she said of bikes and other forms of transportation. “It is an integration of bicycles with all modes of travel.”

http://www.bicycleretailer.com/international/2013/08/29/german-chancellor-calls-bicycles-part-mobility-solution#.UiY0A2RAQdo

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