Thousands of commuters in the DC area may show up to work just a little sweatier than usual this Friday, May 20th. But that’s a small price to pay for the way they’ll feel once they get there—invigorated, glowing with a sense of accomplishment, and maybe a little more convinced that bicycling is a viable option for getting around the District and its environs.
That’s right—this Friday is national Bike to Work Day! Last year, over 9,000 people in the DC area made a commitment to bike to work on this one day, and more are expected this year. Thousands have already registered to participate and you can too by visiting the Washington Area Bicyclist Association’s website. After you’ve registered, be sure to check out their tips for mapping your route to work and register for one of 49 pit stops, where you can pick up your t-shirt, free snacks and drinks, and raffle
prizes. If you’re nervous about bicycling solo, sign up to ride in a convoy for safety in numbers. If you don’t own a bike, check out local bike shops for rentals.
Don’t despair if your destination is farther away than you think you can reasonably commute by bicycle. You can still participate by biking part of the way, for example, by riding to the nearest public transit station or stop. However you choose to participate, you can be proud to be part of this group effort to demonstrate by example the benefits, ease and fun of bicycle transportation. Watch this video from last year’s event and see for yourself what all the hype is about!
By Anne Factor at goDCgo
goDCgo is an initiative of the District Department of Transportation that provides employees, residents and visitors with the education and assistance they need to make more informed choices about their daily travel. Focusing on the overall reduction of single-occupant vehicle travel through the promotion of more sustainable modes, our efforts help decrease traffic congestion and improve air quality thus creating a better quality of life in the District and its surrounding jurisdictions.
This is awesome…
P.S. How many other cities do this?
It was a great day! goDCgo handed out some really good swag. Check out my photos from the Freedom Plaza pit stop.