Bike to Work Day to Kick Off Clean Commute Month
BALTIMORE (May 3, 2004) – In an effort to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion, the Baltimore Regional Transportation Board (BTRB) and Clean Commute Partnership are encouraging commuters to try an alternative to driving alone during the month of May.
May is the beginning of ozone season in Central Maryland, when we hear about Code Red and Code Orange days. On those days, the air can be unhealthy to breathe, especially for the young and the elderly. Single occupancy vehicles produce approximately 20 percent of the ozone-emission pollution in the Baltimore region. Tailpipe emissions and gasoline vapors produce nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which convert in to ozone when exposed to heat and light.
One alternative to commuting alone is riding a bicycle to work, and Friday, May 7, has been designated Bike to Work Day. Bike to Work Day events will take place between 7:00 and 8:30 a.m. at City Hall Plaza in Baltimore, the Annapolis City Dock, Towson Courthouse Square and the Bel Air Government Center in Harford County. Cyclists will be able to enjoy refreshments and have a chance to win great prizes, including urban adventure equipment, a halogen headlight and even a new Gary Fisher Tiburon commuter bike. Cyclists may register for Bike to Work Day at www.Bike2WorkCentralMD.com or by contacting Jamie Bridges at 410-732-0500 X1053.
Other clean commuting alternatives include sharing a ride, using transit, and telework.
Employers who want to learn more about how telework can enhance employee retention, morale and productivity are invited to an afternoon cruise around the Inner Harbor on the Clipper City on Friday, May 21, between 3 and 5 p.m. Call 410-732-9475 to register for this free event.
Wednesday, May 26, is Commuter Thank You Day. Commuters who use the White Marsh Park & Ride Lot will receive a thank-you packet courtesy of Baltimore County RideShare.
The City of Annapolis is promoting Clean Commute Fridays throughout the month of May. Now that spring has sprung, Marylanders are taking off early on Fridays to head for the beach. Reducing local traffic in Annapolis will save headaches and delays for commuters, residents and beachgoers alike. Call ARTMA at 410-269-RIDE for more information.
Additional information about Clean Commute Month is available at http://www.cleancommute.com/.
Bike to Work Day is an initiative of the Baltimore Regional Transportation Board, in cooperation with the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, Maryland Department of the Environment, Maryland Department of Transportation, and One Less Car.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 17 December 2008 07:28