Alternative Transportation: Bike, Bus and Walk Week

“Part of our goal for this event is to educate people on how to bike and commute,” said Lori Tack, program coordinator for Ozark Greenways. “We’re still developing pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and with co-promotion of the bus, bike routes, greenway trails, and pushing for more sidewalks, and safe routes to school, it all ties together.”

As part of the weeklong event Bike-to-Work Day will be May 19. Several employers, including the city of Springfield, City Utilities, Missouri State University and Greene County Juvenile Court, will encourage staff members to use alternative methods of transportation during the week.

“We’re encouraging our members to bike to work,” said Mary Ellison, health educator with the city of Springfield and co-chair of the Hearts n’ Parks Coalition. “We’re also sponsoring bicycle safety and bicycle safety workshops for information.”

Employees of Clariant LSM Missouri Inc., 2460 W. Bennett St., have participated in bike-to-work observance.

“During that week, what we typically do is for people who live on the same side of town, meet somewhere and ride together,” said Tim Sterling, health and safety specialist for Clariant LSM.

Ozark Greenways is offering assistance to businesses and individuals who want to explore other ways to get where they want to go during Bike, Bus and Walk Week. On the organization’s Web site, www.ozark

greenways.org, maps are available to help riders and walkers navigate the city.

Other businesses and organizations are also chipping in to encourage participation.

City Utilities will provide free bus rides for anyone traveling with a bicycle.

Ozarks Regional YMCA branches will be open to participants so that they can use the shower facilities, free of charge. Panera Bread will provide free breakfast May 19 for the first 200 registered participants.

Also, a commuter race will be held May 19 on Bike-to-Work Day. Registration forms and information about Bike, Bus and Walk Week are available on Ozark Greenways’ Web site, or by calling Tack at (417) 864-2015.

Participating companies are encouraged to appoint a Bike, Bus and Walk Week coordinator to track employees’ progress. Individuals who bike, bus or walk three or more days during the week will be eligible to win free one-year memberships to Ozark Greenways – a $25 value – as well as other prizes.

Need a bike?

Galloway Creek Outfitters and the Springfield-Greene County Health Department’s Bike For Life Program and teaming up to offer 20 bikes free of charge for the entire week. Reservations and single-day fee passes are available on a limited basis. For reservations or information about getting a bike, call Galloway Creek Outfitters at (417) 887-1005. [[In-content Ad]]