IN MEMORY OF BILL BLISS

Bill Bliss dedicated his life to increasing connections and improving the safety of bicycle corridors and trails in the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout California. He was a champion of safe trails, improved bicycle facilities and stronger legislation in support of safe bicycling. He was tragically killed when hit by a motor vehicle in 2005 while on a bicycle trip across the country.

Bill was one of the Bay Trail Board's most dedicated and effective members. As a pioneer for the vision of the 500-mile continuous shoreline trail, he served on the original Advisory Board that developed the Bay Trail Plan after State legislation authorizing the regional concept was passed. He was chair of the Bay Trail Board of Directors from 1994-1999 and continued to serve on the Board until his death.

He will always be remembered for his calm but persistent manner as a passionate advocate for bicycling. He is an inspiration to us all and his work has made a significant impact with the miles of bike lanes and trails he helped create. His tireless efforts will forever benefit bicyclists throughout California. The Bay Trail Project was fortunate to know and to work with such an inspiring and dedicated advocate.

A bicycle-themed sculpture was installed along the Bay Trail at the Palo Alto Baylands in January 2011.

The Bliss family worked in partnership with the Palo Alto Public Art Commission and the Art in Public Places Program to dedicate an art piece in Bill's memory along the Bay Trail. The Bay Trail Project received almost $6,000 in donations that will contribute to the cost of the memorial.