A complete streets policy requires streets to be planned, designed, operated and maintained to enable safe, convenient and comfortable travel and access for all users and abilities regardless of their mode of transportation.

Harris is disappointed in the state's ranking, but not surprised. And she is satisfied progress has been made in the past 12 months.

Advocates are working with the Nebraska Department of Transportation on getting a more bicycle friendly rumble strip policy for roads. And they are collaborating on South Beltway access, and on a side bike path to the Platte River bridge between Bellevue and Plattsmouth.

In Lincoln, where 903 cyclists logged miles this summer to help the city win a national ridership contest, advances include a celebrated trails network and a dedicated bike lane cutting through downtown.

But as a state, Nebraska finished last or near-last in categories of infrastructure and funding, policies and programs, and evaluation and planning. Creating a statewide bike plan or a statewide complete streets law would be a good first step to improvement.

A bicycle plan would provide guidance and vision to improve conditions and opportunities for bicycling.