Berkshire Bike Path Council(BBPC) - Western Massachusetts

A nationwide event that encourages people to discover the enjoyment and health benefits of using their bicycles while promoting alternate transportation.

National Ride Your Bike to Work Week is May 13-19th. Locally, the Berkshire Bike Path Council (BBPC) is organizing countywide support of this exciting event.

The goal of the event is to promote awareness of the bicycle as a legitimate transportation option, one that is efficient, inexpensive, and enjoyable. Leaving cars at home will reduce pollution, traffic, parking problems and demands on area natural resources, thereby contributing to a healthier and safer community. Building enthusiasm among riders during a festive occasion can lead to changes in transportation habits.

Members of BBPC have organized business participation by working with corporate team captains in large and small businesses. Captains will sign up coworkers to ride to their place of work. Miles ridden will be compiled along with a log of calories burned and fuel saved. Companies are encouraged to be creative in offering incentives and tips to their employees. Over twenty companies have signed up to participate so far including Crane & Company, General Dynamics and North Adams Regional Hospital. Many local bicycle shops are also compiling miles for those who can't bike to the workplace, but will have an opportunity to ride to their local bike shop.

Marge Cohan, president of BBPC hopes that this will be the first of annual rides in the Berkshires and with each year both participation and miles ridden will grow. Contact and support the Team Captain where you work, or volunteer to become a Team Captain. For more information visit the web site at: www.berkshirebikepath.org , e-mail : Marge Cohan at momimarge@aol.com or phone events coordinator Bonnie Sondrini at 447-9767.

Why?

improves health and mobility

Reduces pollution

Saves money on gas

and wear and tear on your car

it's fun and you accomplish something before you even get to work.

Answers to common excuses

It won't take too long. In urban areas, cycling generally takes less time than driving three miles! Also compare the time you spend exercising to time spent commuting.

It's not really too far. Try cycling to the bus, or to a co-worker's house and then car pool. Or drive part of the way and cycle the rest. Maybe drive to work and cycle home one day and reverse the next day.

You can find a place at work for your bike. With a little research you can usually find a place in the office to store your bike or lock it outside with a sturdy lock.

Ride even if there is no shower. Commuting is different than fitness cycling and generally is not a sweaty affair, especially in the cool morning air.

You can ride in professional attire. On a short commute, wear your work clothes. On longer rides, change at work.

It can be a safe trip. Obey traffic laws, ride visibly and predictably. Always wear a helmet. Pick a route that you feel comfortable riding.

BBPC has been working to create a network of bicycle/recreation paths in Berkshire County. The first section of the Ashuwillticook Trail between Adams and Lanesboro is currently under construction and will be open later this year.

Click here for more info about the Ashuwillticook Trail!

info@berkshireweb.com