About Layne
Hello!
My name is Layne Maddox. I am a current senior at ETSU in the Changemaking Scholars Program. Completing a capstone project is one of the requirements of that honors program. I decided to do my capstone project on improving bikeability (the capability of an area to be safely traversed by bike) in this region. Bikes are amazing! I ride my bike for leisure, transportation, exercise, and more. It’s such a versatile tool that I believe more people should take advantage of. I will be hosting Bike Layne events that encourage others to get out and ride their bicycles as well as advocate for more bicycle infrastructure, particularly bike parking.
Bike Layne’s Story
Bike Layne is part of ETSU Elevates, which is a program that gives “students support in identifying an…issue area of their choice…to conceptualize, design, and implement a service-focused solution to their unique topic.” Bike Layne chose to focus on bikeability (or the lack thereof) as the issue area. Getting more participation and improving or adding bicycle infrastructure are the two methods Bike Layne will be working. The first step is to host a Bike-to-Work week and collect data from the participants to evaluate areas most in need for infrastructure.
Values
Creativity in the solutions to bikability issues
Respect for all people and opinions
Determination to change the car-centric status quo
Sustainability within transportation methods
Vision
Increase the number of people using bikes on at least a semi-regular basis (at least 2 times a month). Host bicycle activities, provide information, and more.
Implement better, safer bicycle infrastructure in key areas. Infrastructure that is well-designed, long-lasting, and reliable.
Methods
Promoting awareness and education in an accessible way to encourage the average person to use their bicycle more often.
Making small, yet effective changes to the bicycle infrastructure around the region, starting with ETSU and downtown Johnson City.