Kicking off National Bike Month, the League of American Bicyclists on Thursday announced that Minnesota ranks as the second most bicycle-friendly state in the nation. Minnesota has consistently ranked in the top five since 2008.

“This ranking is recognition of the work on behalf of bicycling being done by both the public and private sectors throughout the state,” said Dorian Grilley, executive director of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota. “It is not only because of the good work that is being done by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, but because the Department of Health, Explore Minnesota Tourism, Department of Natural Resources, other public agencies, local governments and many of our state’s businesses, both big and small, are all engaged in making bicycling better in Minnesota,”

Nearly half of Minnesotans rode a bicycle last year, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation 2012 Omnibus Transportation Survey.

The Bicycle Friendly States ranking is based on key indicators, including infrastructure and funding that provide safe places to bike; education and encouragement programs that promote cycling; and passage and enforcement of bicycle-friendly laws that make it safe and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities to ride.

“We are excited and encouraged to see real progress in states like California, Minnesota and Utah,” said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists.