Colorado Springs launching bike route master plan

You know that $4 bicycle excise tax you pay in Colorado Springs when you buy a bike?

It's time to watch that money at work.

Colorado Springs officials announced Tuesday they are launching a master planning process, the first since 1996, to study and come up with ideas for bike lanes and trails for the next 10 years.

The plan is being funded by $70,000 from the bicycle tax and a $15,000 grant from Bicycle Friendly Communities. Watch for upcoming announcements from the city on how to participate and make your voice heard.

Colorado Springs has an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, though some remain concerned about the city's interest in continuing to build bike facilities.