by Zach Hagenbucher

STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) -- The City of Stevens Point is looking to improve their status with The League of American Bicyclists by becoming a Silver Bicycle Friendly Community.

The city was awarded Bronze status by the League in 2013. Associate Planner Kyle Kearns believes that Stevens Point has taken the steps to become a more bike-friendly city and earn the higher status.

Kearns said, "We've adopted the Portage County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. We've also created the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. There have been a number of infrastructure improvements, including bike racks downtown, and really there's been a lot more public engagement."

Kearns says the recognition will hopefully draw younger, qualified talent to Stevens Point and help continue the growth of the city.

He said, "I think a lot of the younger generation are choosing a community before a position. What the community has to offer plays a lot into determining if they want to choose that as their permanent residence and start a family here."

A survey has been created to gain community feedback on the biking infrastructure. Whether you're an avid bicyclist or you're not at all, you're invited to fill out the survey with your observations through this link.