As the new year approaches, I’ve been reflecting on the impactful work MassBike has accomplished recently, as well as the challenges ahead in 2025. Even with a solid grounding of local bike-friendly projects, policies, and community support, we are heading into a new national administration where advocacy for a more equitable transportation future at the local and state levels will be more critical than ever. In this light, MassBike is gearing up to meet the needs of riders across Massachusetts.

We're growing our capacity to make sure we do not backslide from the gains we've worked so hard to secure (we're the #2 bike-friendly state, according to the League of American Bicyclists!). This will involve our ongoing efforts expanding bike infrastructure for every city and town, maintaining focus on traffic safety and VisionZero goals, widening the reach of our educational programs, and prioritizing accessibility of our streets and paths for every person out on wheels or on foot – especially those who are the most vulnerable. To achieve our aim, we'll have to keep at it every day to maintain our momentum and keep making progress.

I also recognize how our work directly impacts the communities we serve, and thus MassBike remains committed to advocating for policies and projects that matter most to you and your neighbors. To do this, we'll need to cultivate a core of advisors and advocates across the state – from the cities, suburbs, and rural communities in every region from the Berkshires to the Cape. MassBike intends to develop resources that empower our partners, and connect to conversations that go beyond two-wheels and really engage in the greater good.

It's clear to me that we can’t do it alone. Advocacy is a collective effort, and your involvement is key. Whether you're speaking up on behalf of a local committee or "Friends of..." group, personally contacting your elected officials to let them know how better biking is important to you, hosting or attending community events to expand the conversation, or even just getting out to see the world form behind the handle bars and encouraging others to do the same, we're here to support and inspire you to shape a better future for biking in Massachusetts. The actions we all take locally, large and small, are vital to our advocacy, and I’ll continue to develop MassBike as an organization that activates our coalition.

I am so grateful to lead this organization that is making real changes for the everyday lives of people across Massachusetts. We're entering an era where our momentum will meet yet-to-be-felt headwinds, but with a strong coalition I'm confident we will look back in a year and be proud of the accomplishments we've made to build a movement that can weather tough conditions. Thank you for your engagement in creating a better world with us. Ever onward, and I hope you'll join us to enjoy the ride!

Ways to Engage in 2025

• Join Us at MassBike’s Annual Meeting: Mark your calendars for January 25th! Celebrate our accomplishments and learn how you can contribute to our plans for the year ahead.
• Take Part in Massachusetts Lobby Day: Make your voice heard on February 11th at the State House. Together, we’ll advocate for policies and infrastructure that support safer bicycling for all across the commonwealth.

MassBike’s critical work depends on people like you. If you’re able to donate—or encourage five friends to chip in—you can help ensure we’re ready to tackle local efforts and continue building momentum in 2025. Together, we can make meaningful progress for biking in Massachusetts.

Thank you for supporting MassBike. Let’s keep the wheels of progress turning in 2025!

Galen Mook, MassBike Executive Director