Virginia is the 17th-most Bicycle Friendly State in the country according to The League of American Bicyclists recently released list for 2012. Regionally, Virginia ranked as the No. 1 most bicycle-friendly state in the south.

The annual rankings are compiled by League staff for an annual assessment that involves working with state officials to identify policies and infrastructure that will improve life for bicyclists.

States are ranked based on their scores in five evaluation categories. Category scores are ranked from one to five with one being the lowest and five being the highest. Virginia received a five for “Policies and Programs”, a three in the “Education and Encouragement” and “Evaluation and Planning” categories, and a two in the “Legislation and Enforcement” and “Infrastructure and Funding” categories.

Among the feedback for Virginia, the League suggested the state:

• Adopt federal funding project rating cri­teria that incentivize bicycle projects and accommodations.
• Focus Complete Streets training and ac­countability to ensure consistent application throughout the state.
• Adopt a vulnerable road user law with a minimum safe passing distance to address bicyclist safety.

Fredericksburg Cyclists Club President Terry Dorn said, "I think it is nice that LAB is recognizing the improvements that some communities are making and the legislative advocacy work by the Virginia Bicycling Federation," he said. "There is still much work to do."

To see additional feedback, view the PDF at right.

Washington state was selected as the country’s most bicycle friendly state for the fifth year in a row. According to the press release, Washington leads the “nation in creating new bicycle infrastructure and using federal funds for bicycle and pedestrian projects.”