Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia

Background

Founded in 1972, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia (BCGP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting bicycling as a safe and enjoyable mode of transportation and recreation in the Greater Philadelphia region. The Coalition's mission is to lead the movement to make every bicycle ride safe, empower youth and adults to ride, and foster a ridership that reflects the region's diversity. Their vision is that by 2040, anyone in the Philadelphia area can ride a bike confidently and joyfully on a network of connected trails, bike lanes, and safe streets.

Key Strategic Focus

BCGP focuses on several strategic initiatives:

Advocacy for Sustainable Transportation: Promoting a transportation network that prioritizes bicycling and safe mobility, especially in under-resourced communities.

Infrastructure Development: Advocating for additional protected bicycle lanes and the completion of the Circuit Trails network to create a high-quality, connected infrastructure.

Education and Empowerment: Empowering youth and adults through education programs that teach street safety, promote healthy habits, and encourage leadership.

Equity Advancement: Working to create policies and practices that center commitments to equity across all departments.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit, BCGP relies on contributions, grants, and fundraising events to support its operations. In the fiscal year ending March 2023, the organization reported revenue of approximately $1.77 million and expenses of about $1.67 million, resulting in a net income of $100,620. Total assets stood at $1.85 million, with liabilities of $400,000.

Pipeline Development

BCGP's key programs include:

Bicycle Coalition Youth Cycling (BCYC): A program fostering healthy habits, independence, and leadership among high school students through the sport of cycling. In 2023, 115 youth from 11 Philadelphia schools participated, with $30,000 in scholarships distributed to graduating seniors.

Better Bike Share Partnership (BBSP): A collaboration funded by The JPB Foundation to build equitable and replicable bike share systems. BCGP provides bicycle education in the city as part of this partnership.

The Circuit Trails: BCGP is a leading partner in building the Circuit, a network of trails in the region. In 2023, 7.2 miles were completed, bringing the total to 391 miles.

Technological Platform and Innovation

BCGP leverages various technological platforms to advance its mission:

Online Resources: Providing bike maps and safety education materials in multiple languages to reach a diverse audience.

Data-Driven Advocacy: Utilizing data to advocate for infrastructure improvements and policy changes, such as the Vision Zero Action Plan, which secured over $200 million in federal funds to improve 31 miles of dangerous roads.

Leadership Team

As of December 2023, the leadership team includes:

Chris Gale, Executive Director: Appointed in December 2023, Gale brings experience from his previous role as Chief Programs Officer for North10 Philadelphia, where he collaborated with BCGP on initiatives like the Lil’ Philly Safety Village.

Edward Chang, Board Chair: Serving as Chair of the Board of Directors, Chang provides strategic oversight and leadership.

Amanda Benner, Vice Chair: As Vice Chair, Benner supports the board's initiatives and governance.

Raymond Wynman, Treasurer: Overseeing financial matters, Wynman ensures fiscal responsibility and transparency.

Leadership Changes

In December 2023, Chris Gale succeeded Sarah Clark-Stuart as Executive Director. Clark-Stuart had been with BCGP for 15 years, including eight as Executive Director, significantly expanding the Coalition's reach and impact.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Philadelphia has seen significant increases in cycling, with the city ranking 7th in the USA for commuting by bike. The Circuit Trails network and the Indego bike-share program have contributed to this growth.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors and collaborators in the region include:

Indego Bike Share: Philadelphia's bike-share program, operated by Bicycle Transit Systems, offers over 2,000 bicycles across 250 stations.

Bicycle Club of Philadelphia: A local organization promoting recreational cycling and organizing events.

Neighborhood Bike Works: Provides educational and recreational cycling programs for youth in underserved communities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

BCGP engages in significant collaborations to strengthen its impact:

Better Bike Share Partnership: A collaboration funded by The JPB Foundation, including the City of Philadelphia, NACTO, and PeopleForBikes, aiming to build equitable and replicable bike share systems.