Update: Proposed Merger of Washington Bikes and Cascade Bicycle Club

Talks continue on the proposed merger between Washington Bikes and Cascade Bicycle Club, which would create the nation’s largest statewide bike advocacy organization.

Following work by a joint subcommittee, in late October both boards adopted a nonbinding resolution laying out the guiding principles for the negotiations.

The Guiding Principles Resolution lays out the strengths both organizations bring and a commitment to:

• the ongoing missions of both organizations
• a bipartisan and inclusive approach to state advocacy
• partnerships that support local bike clubs and advocacy groups
• equity and representation of all kinds of riders
• work to continue growing bike tourism
• bicycle advocacy and education aimed at bicycling for all ages and abilities

Following the merger, the name “Washington Bikes” would serve as the name for the 501(c)(4) entity, with “Cascade Bicycle Club” the 501(c)(3). Some members of the current Washington Bikes board of directors would be appointed to the Cascade board, which will then appoint the board of the (c)(4). Both boards would reflect statewide representation and a diversity of biking interests.

The merger discussions are now in a due diligence phase leading up to a board vote scheduled for December 8. During due diligence, the organizations share financial and programmatic information needed for a full understanding of what a merger would entail and the opportunities and risks it presents.

Details of the merger and transition plans are being developed by a joint board committee working with staff and will be presented to both boards before the vote. A strategic planning process in early 2016 would serve to lay out more detailed long-range plans.

To comment on the merger or ask questions, email washingtonbikes@cascadebicycleclub.org. Emails to this address are shared with both boards.