NAME: Rick Scarlet
LOCATION: Springfield, MO
OCCUPATION: Urban Farmer

Where do you live and what’s it like riding in your city?
Springfield is a great bicycle town and getting better all the time. There are greenways, trails, and bike paths around much of the city, plus mountain bike trails not far out. We live really close to downtown where there are great bicycle friendly shops and coffee houses. There are a lot of bicycles in town, especially when the college students are in town.

What was your favorite city to ride in, and why?
I grew up in Columbia MO where I didn’t have a car. It is a really progressive town with some great bike paths. I used to ride the MKT trail out to the Katy trail so I could ride along the Missouri River. There is a great winery in Rocheport MO that we used to ride to and sit and drink with friends.

Why do you love riding in the city?
I have a cargo bike with some upgrades. It is a comfortable ride. If I need to haul something big I just hook my trailer on. Bicycling is for everyone, not just skinny lycra wearing people. I shop with my bike, ride to work in the garden, and ride to the coffee shop to socialize.

Or just say whatever you want about riding in the city…
Become involved with your local sustainable transportation group. We have an active group of people that are doing great things for bicycling in Springfield.