Alameda Earns Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community Award

The East Bay city is one of only 32 in the U.S. to receive this distinction from the League of American Bicyclists.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Alameda has been recognized as one of the nation's most bicycle-friendly cities, earning the gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community Award from the League of American Bicyclists. The city has steadily improved its infrastructure and policies to support safe biking and walking, including approving a new mobility plan, launching a ferry service, and nearly completing a major trail project.

Why it matters

This award highlights Alameda's commitment to sustainable transportation and promoting active lifestyles. As more people choose to bike for commuting, recreation, and environmental reasons, Alameda's investments in biking infrastructure and programs make the city an attractive place to live and visit.

The details

To earn the gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community Award, Alameda has taken steps such as approving a new comprehensive roadmap for future safety and mobility, launching the Oakland-Alameda Water Shuttle, and nearly completing the Cross Alameda Trail. The city has also seen over 40% of students walking and biking to school.

  • Alameda was awarded the bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community Award in 2016.
  • In 2021, Alameda was upgraded to the silver-level award.
  • Alameda has now earned the gold-level award in 2026.

The players

Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft

The mayor of Alameda, who said the city is committed to ensuring students can safely walk and bike to school.

Mia Bonta

The California Assemblymember who represents Alameda and Oakland, and said biking protects the environment, keeps people healthy, and saves money.

League of American Bicyclists

A nonprofit that promotes bicycling through advocacy and education, and awards the Bicycle Friendly Community designations.

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What they’re saying

“More than 40% of Alameda students walk and bike to school, and we are committed to making sure they get there safely.”

— Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of Alameda (Patch)

“Biking protects our environment, keeps us healthy, and saves Alamedans money. Alameda is a forward-thinking city, and we're once again ahead of the pack.”

— Mia Bonta, California Assemblymember (Patch)

What’s next

Alameda officials say they will continue to invest in infrastructure and programs to maintain the city's status as a top bicycle-friendly community in the U.S.

The takeaway

Alameda's gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community Award demonstrates the city's long-term commitment to sustainable transportation and active lifestyles. As more people choose to bike for commuting, recreation, and environmental reasons, Alameda's investments in biking infrastructure and programs make it an attractive place to live and visit.