News
April 18, 2019New Events Scheduled for Bike to Work Day, May 17, 2019
The Capital District Transportation Committee (CDTC) is organizing the 6th annual Bike to Work Day Challenge for commuters in Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga, and Schenectady Counties on Bike to Work Day, Friday, May 17, 2019. New this year, are Bike to Work celebrations in the Cities of Schenectady and Troy in addition to the City of Albany – sponsored bike ride to Albany City Hall and the Bikeatoga – sponsored Bike Breakfast in Saratoga Springs. See www.cdtcmpo.org/biketowork for more information and registration.
Bike to Work Day is an annual national event held each May that promotes bicycling as an option to commute to work. Over 500 people registered for the Capital District Bike to Work Challenge in 2018. Last year’s participants rode over 6,400 miles, burned 279,000 calories, conserved 260 gallons of fuel and prevented the release of 5,096 lbs. of CO₂.
Bike to Work Day Challenge participants who register by April 23 are eligible for a free commemorative t-shirt. Riders can enter to win a one-month membership of CDPHP Cycle! Bikeshare, a one-month CDTA bus pass, or an iPool2 gym bag when they tag a picture of their ride on social media with the hashtag #b2w518. Also new this year is an option to get paired with a Ride Buddy with a similar commute, something past participants have asked for. Anyone who registers by May 17th can compete with their team to win a trophy.
“The annual Bike to Work Day Challenge planned in Troy is a great way to celebrate the Collar City’s active biking community and promote healthy activities which support alternative transportation and a cleaner environment,” said Troy Mayor Patrick Madden. “We are thrilled to partner with the Capital District Transportation Committee and my fellow Capital Region mayors for this great event and encourage everyone to come along for the ride during Bike to Work Day this spring.”
“Bike to Work Day creates an opportunity for everyone to re-envision their commutes, whether their motivation comes from helping the environment, saving money or choosing a healthy alternative,” Mayor Kelly said. “With the relaunch of CDPHP Cycle! Bikeshare and the busy summer season ahead of us, it is a great time to try an alternative means to get to work and get some exercise at the same time. Saratoga Springs is proud that Bikeatoga is again co-sponsoring the event.”
“We are turning the roads of Albany, such as Madison Avenue, into Complete Streets, which means making them more friendly to cyclists, whether they are out for a ride or on a commute,” said Mayor Kathy Sheehan. “Biking to work is a great way to start and end your work day. It’s healthy, beneficial to the environment, and a great way to clear your mind. We encourage all who believe in cycling to join City employees on Bike to Work Day for the morning ride downtown – and then stop off at City Hall for some bagels and coffee.”
“Schenectady has taken significant steps to create a safe and friendly environment for cyclists and walkers alike,” said Mayor Gary R. McCarthy. “Our Bike Infrastructure Master Plan continues to implement necessary improvements while working simultaneously with ongoing development projects across the City. Additionally, our Craig Street – Main Avenue Complete Streets Linkage Study will connect neighborhoods by encouraging different modes of mobility and supporting safe routes to schools. This work ensures the city is on the right path towards a more bicycle friendly and walkable community. I encourage everyone to take part in this great initiative.”
CDTC is the designated Metropolitan Planning Organization carrying out Federal requirements for cooperative transportation planning and programming in the four county Capital District areas. Our iPool2 program provides information specific to our region to encourage commuting by transit, carpool, vanpool, walking, and of course by bicycle.
