Wisconsin is back near the top of a list of “Bicycle Friendly States."

The new rankings from the League of American Bicyclists have Wisconsin in third, up from eighth last year. Washington is No. 1 with Minnesota No. 2.

The state has ranked as high as second, but had slipped back somewhat under Gov. Scott Walker and Republican control of the Legislature with less money directed toward bicycle projects.

In its report card on Wisconsin, the League applauds the state for its bicycle policies and programs along with its education and encouragement for young or newer rides.