OLYMPIA — As the nation celebrates Bike Month in May, Washington state has one more reason to cheer: For the sixth consecutive year, the League of American Bicyclists has named Washington No. 1 “Bicycle-Friendly State” in the country.

Strong partnerships among the state’s cities, counties, advocacy organizations, state agencies and transportation providers form the foundation of Washington’s success in improving conditions for bicycling and walking.

“This title confirms that Washington is on the right path in recognizing bicycling as part of a sustainable, multimodal transportation system,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “Bicycling is embraced by Washingtonians as a form of transportation that enhances our quality of life and honors our environment.”

The League of American Bicyclists evaluated the state’s cycling success in categories, including legislation and enforcement, policies and programs, infrastructure and funding, education and encouragement and evaluation and planning.

“We’ve made significant gains in improving the conditions for bicyclists and pedestrians in our state, but there much more that we can do through partnerships and low-cost enhancements,” said Washington’s Secretary of Transportation Lynn Peterson. “The League’s evaluation reinforces the need to include bicycle facilities as part of our transportation programs.”