The streets of Portland are set to become a gallery of whimsy as the 2025 Bike to Books Design Contest winners, announced by the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) and Multnomah County Library, ready their original art for installation in local bike lanes. Branching out from its typical youth-exclusive participation, this year the contest invited Portlanders of all ages to showcase their creativity, leading to over 350 designs, including a spectrum of four-legged creatures pedaling through imaginations.
According to the City of Portland recent announcement, submissions from across the board captivated judges with fantastical elements ranging from "feline friends and arctic birds, to smiling stuffed animals and even Portland's favorite skyscraper." The contest, heralding National Bike Month in May, had participants diving into the spirit of Portland's unique culture. From kids in elementary grades to grown-ups, artists were busying themselves with designs, rather than exclusively the youth of Multnomah County.
Entries were reviewed by PBOT and Multnomah County Library staff, with winners elected from categories spanning Pre-K to adults. Portland's commitment to both artistic expression and cycling is underscored through this competition, emphasizing the city's dual passions for bike-friendly accessibility and the encouragement of community engagement.
Winners of the contest will have their artwork featured along neighborhood greenways and bike lanes, according to a PBOT press release. The selected designs will be installed by PBOT street striping crews in areas where they can be seen by residents and commuters. The project aims to enhance visibility and community engagement along Portland’s bike routes.
