Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Bicycling

Bill Clinton Agrees: Cycling Is Good Citizenship

14409740_306ff1290a.jpgFrom a Streetsblog tipster:

I was riding my usual route home from work, which includes a left turn from Broadway onto 17th St., when I spotted a medium sized crowd outside of the Union Square Barnes & Noble. I remembered that Bill Clinton was scheduled to appear there, and figured it must be him. I turned toward the crowd and was surprised I was allowed to ride right up to it and dismount. As I approached, I spotted that recognizable silver hair and ruddy complexion. He was making his way up and down the crowd, shaking hands. I tried to think of what kind of exchange I might get to have with the former President that would be more meaningful than a handshake. Happily, I remembered that I was displaying on my shoulder bag my banner that reads, "cycling is good citizenship." I held it up over the heads of the admiring crowd for Bill to see it. As he made his way past my spot, I saw him squint a bit to read the sign, and then, he said with a smile and a finger pointed at me, "I agree!"

Photo: dbking/Flickr

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

The ‘Affordability Crisis’ Conversation Can’t Leave Out the Cost of Cars

We can't talk about Americans' empty wallets without talking about our empty buses and sidewalks.

January 8, 2026

What Is A Life Worth In NYC? In Fatal Crashes, Sometimes Just $50

Drivers who kill pedestrians often face minimal punishment, a Streetsblog investigation found.

January 8, 2026

Thursday’s Headlines: ‘It’s Menin!’ Edition

The Council elected a new Speaker yesterday, but there was not much talk of transportation. Plus other news.

January 8, 2026

Two-Pronged Approach: City Will Appeal Judge’s Block on Astoria Bike Lane But Also Address Her Concerns

The city will appeal but will also complete a minor bureaucratic step that the Adams administration failed to complete, Streetsblog has learned.

January 7, 2026

Opinion: E-Bikes Are An Economic Boost That Cities Must Encourage

E-bikes and scooters are reshaping local retail markets by expanding who can reach neighborhood businesses with frequency, ease, and convenience.

January 7, 2026
See all posts