We reached out to all the potential gubernatorial candidates and ask them for a policy statement on bike issues. The first response we have received is from Frank Caprio. RIBike, the organization, does not intend to throw its support behind any particular candidate. Our aim is to gather information and foster communication, so each of us can be better informed.
Here is Frank Caprio’s response:
Dear Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition
Thank you for reaching out to my campaign. I share the sentiments of the RI Bike Coalition’s mission “to promote and enable bicycling as a healthy, enjoyable, efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation” and welcome the opportunity to earn your support.
As Governor, I will work to improve safety for cyclists in our state. That starts with encouraging safer driving habits. The recent texting-while-driving ban is a strong step in the right direction. While we need to respond to new sources of driver distraction, it is equally important that we diligently enforce our existing traffic laws. Drivers who neglect to use turn signals, for example, are endangering the lives of other drivers and cyclists alike. I saw one study that ranked Providence near the bottom of major cities in terms of safe driving. There is clearly a great deal of room for improvement, and as Governor I will work to make our roads safer.
I recently posted the ‘Caprio Clean Energy Plan’ to my campaign website. I encourage you to visit my site and review these proposals. The plan seeks to promote the development of a clean energy economy in Rhode Island so we can cut our state’s carbon footprint while creating jobs and generating economic growth. Air quality is an important concern for cyclists and as Governor I will work to promote the use of electric vehicles. With our small geographic area and high population density, Rhode Island is ideally suited to electric vehicles, which would greatly improve air quality for cyclists.
Thank you for extending this invitation to offer my thoughts on bicycle issues. I look forward to earning your support.
Regards,
Frank Caprio
Democratic candidate for Governor
His campaign website can be found at http://www.frankcaprio.com/