The League of American Bicyclists has awarded Two Harbors a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) designation, recognizing the city’s efforts to improve biking infrastructure and promote healthier, more sustainable transportation.
“This award is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work our staff and partners have put into making Two Harbors a better place to bike, walk, and live,” said City Administrator Patty Nordean.
Two Harbors applied for the BFC designation in 2015 and received an honorable mention. Since then, the city has made significant improvements, earning the upgraded Bronze award. The changes include installing bike racks, teaching bike and pedestrian safety in schools, hosting bike rodeos, and upgrading roads and trails, including a new section of the Gichi-Gami trail and plans to redesign Highway 61 with a focus on bicycling and pedestrian safety.
When municipalities apply for an award from the BFC program, they fill out an extensive application which requires collaboration across city agencies and with local advocates and other partners. The program recognizes cities for their efforts to support biking, with feedback from expert reviewers offering recommendations for future improvements. Communities must reapply every four years to keep their status.
“Bicycling is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a powerful tool for building healthier communities, fostering sustainability, and connecting people,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the
League of American Bicyclists. “The cities and towns recognized in this round of Bicycle Friendly Community awards are leading the way by investing in infrastructure and programs that make biking an easier, safer, and more accessible choice.” The Bike Friendly Two Harbors Committee meets on a regular basis to continue this work. Reach out to Lareesa Sandretsky, lareesa.sandretsky@co.lake.mn.us or (218) 834-8378 if you have feedback or are interested in joining the committee.
