My name is Dan Suraci. I am a public relations and urban studies double major in Temple University's Honors Program. Starting next month I will begin my honors thesis in New York City. I am studying urban sustainability within the context of cycling. I will traverse the city's bicycle infrastructure and examine how sustainability can mean much more than lowering carbon footprints and saving the environment; it deals with redefining the nature of our relationship with the world around us and each other, particularly in urban settings. I propose that cycling alters both the perceptions of and interactions with New York and its people. Over the next few months I intend to demonstrate how this occurs and what the implications may be for the future of sustainability.

The bicycle is an undeniably sustainable form of transportation. Aside from their production, bicycles gives off no discernible carbon emissions. Being completely human powered (in most cases) effectively reduces a bike's carbon footprint to zero.

The purpose of this blog is to share my experiences with others. Why? Aside from being the greatest, most affluent city on the planet (not to mention a fascinating place to explore), it is a magnificent display of cultural and scenic diversity. In the span of a day you can sit on a beach and tan, go to an exhibition to view some of the most famous art in the entire world, ride a roller coaster, or stand in the heart of midtown to experience the archetypal urban atmosphere. New York is a unique experience and I would like everyone to see this for themselves. I also hope that this study will inspire others to embrace cycling as a viable form of transportation in urban settings and beyond. Please join me in my explorations and enjoy!