On June 9, 2026, 46 advocates from 7 counties across Pennsylvania came together in Harrisburg for a day of action at the State Capitol.
The lobby day consisted of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, Families for Safe Streets Greater Philadelphia, PA Safe Roads PAC, 5th Square Advocacy and the Pennsylvania Downtown Center. All united around two priorities: parking protected bike lane legislation (HB 291) and the Jay Alert pilot program. Both are critical pieces of legislation that support pedestrian and bicycle safety which reduce and respond to traffic violence, respectively.
We are deeply grateful to every community member and advocate who joined us that day.
A Day of Action at the Capitol
Together, we spoke with more than 21 legislators and dropped off materials at over 31 offices. Our goal was simple: make sure every legislator understood how important these issues are, and that there are concrete, individual steps they can take right now to change the status quo and reduce traffic violence in their districts.
We walked the halls of the Capitol proud to represent the bike and pedestrian safety community. We were easy to spot in our BCGP and FSSGP shirts and helmets, and full of energy. Advocates shared personal stories about why these issues matter to them, and that honesty resonated. Several legislators told us, in no uncertain terms, that supporting this legislation was a no-brainer, and signed on as co-sponsors on the spot.
Where the Bill Stands Now
The protected bike lane legislation, HB 291, has already passed the House and is currently sitting in the State Senate Transportation Committee. This is exactly the moment when constituent pressure matters most.
If you know anyone who lives in a state senate transportation committee district, now is the time to ask them to call their senator and urge them to move HB 291 forward. It’s one step closer to the finish line, and every call helps.
The Jay Alert pilot program will soon be introduced as its own piece of legislation. We’re hopeful that both bills can pass before the end of this year.
How You Can Get Involved
Take action before 6/30/26: Sign the petition to support parking-protected bike lanes and safer streets across Pennsylvania.
If you’d like to reach out to your own legislator, contact Julio Rodriguez, Policy Director at the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. He and the team would be happy to help set up a meeting with your state representative or state senator to ask directly about their position on these bills.
None of this would be possible without the partnership of everyone who showed up on June 9th and everyone who continues to make the calls, send the emails, and show up for safer streets.
Thank you.
The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia leads the movement to make every bicycle ride safe, to empower youth and adults to ride, and to foster a ridership that reflects the diversity of the region. Join or renew to continue that advocacy and education work throughout the region. More info here.