Sims announces improved countywide bike map

King County Executive Ron Sims today announced a "new and improved" King County Bicycling Guidemap will make its debut this weekend at the Group Health Seattle International Bicycling Expo. The redesigned map is easier to read with helpful information such as locations of public restrooms.

"The King County bike map is one of our most popular products with local residents," said Sims. "We can't print enough of them to keep up with the demand, and the downloadable map is one of the most-visited spots on the county Web site."

The map is a comprehensive guide to bicycling roads, trails and facilities throughout the county.
This first significant update of the map since 1998 is funded through a partnership of Group Health Cooperative and two King County departments – Parks and Transportation.

The map layout has been changed to a larger, easier-to-read format. Color coding also makes the map easier to use.

"This map is an indispensable tool for the hundreds of thousands of people who bicycle regularly in King County, whether for commuting, recreation or fitness," Sims said. "This map helps promote a healthier lifestyle by getting us out of our cars to take advantage of the wonderful recreational facilities we have here in this county."

The free maps will first be available at the Group Health booth at this weekend's bike expo. In the coming weeks, the maps will be available at King County libraries, select retail locations, and at the map counter on the first floor of the King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson St., Seattle.

King County boasts more than 100 miles of paved trails and nearly 70 miles of unpaved trails that can be used by cyclists. In addition, King County's Marymoor Park is home to the Group Health Velodrome at Marymoor, a world-class banked oval bicycle racing track that hosts competitive races and is also open to the public for drop-in use.

"Cycling can be done at any level, any age and for so many purposes," said Mindy Ziffren-Hall, Team Group Health racer and a participant on the "You Go Girl" cycling panel at the Group Health Seattle International Bicycle Expo. "There is no sport like cycling that allows me to compete, socialize or even travel around, all the while achieving a balance of fitness and overall health and wellbeing."

Added Hugh Straley, MD, Medical Director of Group Health: "Cycling is one of the best ways for people of all ages to get in shape and have fun. It's a great way to promote overall cardiovascular and muscle training."

The bike map is available online at: http://www.metrokc.gov/bike.