October Advocacy Spotlight : Mary Wade
Utah is home to many community bicycling advocates, who dedicate time and energy to making riding in their cities and neighborhoods more safe and accessible. Bike Utah is excited to begin highlighting an advocate each month, with the goals of recognizing their work, connecting with more community members, and inspiring new advocates to take action!
October Advocacy Spotlight : Mary Wade
Occupation: Elementary school teacher
Associated Group: BikeWalk Provo
Position: Director
Where is your favorite place to ride in Utah?
If it is safe, convenient, and beautiful to run errands with my kids or to get us to school/work, I love it! Neighborhood bikeways in Provo, like 200 E and 800 E, or trails with few conflict points, like Carterville Road or Lover's Lane, are always delightful to ride.
How did you begin incorporating bicycling as a regular mode of personal and family transportation?
It was very much a gradual process. Could I stick to biking all summer? Could I bring home a gallon of milk? Could I pack all of our library books?
It was an incredibly empowering experience as I pushed my limits over the years. Eventually, I became a year-round bike commuter. All of the milestones were made even more attainable as I slowly got more helpful gear: panniers, raincoats/pants, thermal bags for cold groceries.
The most important advice would be to be patient with yourself. Recognize that it is a gradual process as you build up budget, stamina, and your kids' routines. Celebrate the small victories and set new goals to see what else you can accomplish together!
How did you become involved in bicycle advocacy?
I saw new developments pop up around Provo with bike lanes and "Bicycle Friendly Community" signs. I wanted to find out who was responsible! I discovered BikeWalk Provo and started attending meetings to find out how I could contribute. It was a great experience to see how pooling our unique skills and resources can strengthen the organization, no matter your background.
What do you find most difficult about doing your work, and how do you overcome those issues?
How slowly government wheels can turn or how loud naysayers can be. I was bewildered when I first got involved to discover how political active transportation often is. I was just a mom biking with my kids to enjoy fresh air, social connection, and exercise.
It felt very personal, as I was once hit by a car on our way to story time at the library (fortunately, my kids were in the trailer behind me and stayed safe). I was taken aback at feedback that [safer bicycling] was just some political agenda.
I work to overcome these difficulties by seeking out others' experiences (parents in particular) to try to amplify their voices. It helps to also be working with such an amazing group of people who are all bringing their own strengths and time to the table as well!
What do you hope for the future of Provo and biking and walking?
For leaders to proactively seek out and really hear the voices of the most vulnerable in our community on a regular—not occasional or short-term—basis.
I would love to see better coordination with Safe Routes to School, so school community councils are aware of the resources available to them as they seek input on unique obstacles and opportunities.
Do you have a follow-up question for Mary? Would you like more info about your local bicycling advocacy group or have a specific active transportation project you’d like to see initiated? Do you know an advocate we should highlight? Email info@bikeutah.org!
