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Bicyclists will be greeted by volunteers from the DEP, DOT and DPH at the Old State House, Hartford from 7 - 9 a.m. This is the eighth year the three state agencies have participated in "Bike to Work" promotions. "Bike Everywhere" events are being held throughout the Capitol region the week of May 11 - 15 this year.
DEP Commissioner Gina McCarthy said, "Let's get outside and show others that biking is a viable form of transportation. Whether you take the big challenge and commute to work on your bicycle, run errands in your community, or ride for recreation-your bicycle is a great alternative to driving your car and an impressive way to be a role model for your family and friends. Biking, when practical, may make a positive impact on the future of our planet by reducing harmful greenhouse gases that create climate change while playing havoc with our environment."
"I am excited to see that alternatives to the single-occupancy motor vehicle are taking hold in our state," said DOT Commissioner Joseph F. Marie. "Biking is an important mode of transportation - one that helps reduce traffic congestion and harmful pollutants, saves gas and money, and helps keep you fit. For many commuters, and for the public as a whole, biking to work really is a win-win."
"The Department of Public Health enthusiastically supports biking to work for the proven health benefits that are achieved from daily physical activity," says J. Robert Galvin, MD, MPH, MBA, Commissioner. "Healthy workers are happier and more productive in their jobs. We at the DPH would like to see more people biking and leading active lifestyles."
Commuters are encouraged to leave their cars at home and bicycle to work to receive the benefits of improved health, better air quality from reduced automobile exhaust and fuel savings.
"Bike Everywhere" is part of a larger effort by the Central Connecticut Cycling Alliance (CCBA) to improve bicycling conditions throughout the region. According to Anne Hayes, President of CCBA. "Our goal is to change the environment, through education, infrastructure improvements and in changed attitudes that encourage healthy, active transportation choices."
Regional National Bicycling Week events:
May 15 (Friday) 7-9 a.m. Bike to Work, Old State House, Hartford - the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection will Sponsor the event
May 15 (Friday), 5-7 p.m. - Bike Week Happy Hour, Corner Pug in West Hartford
"Bike Everywhere" events are sponsored by the Central Connecticut Bicycle Alliance. For further information visit their Web site: http://www.connbikes.org.
