FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Mayor Dwight C. Jones' Pedestrian, Bicycling, and Trails Commission invited the city of Richmond to participate in Richmond Bike Month during May 2013. The goal of the 2nd Annual Richmond Bicycle Commuter Challenge was to show bike commuting is easy, affordable, and healthy.

"The Richmond Bicycle Commuter Challenge is a great way for our residents to learn and experience the tremendous health and sustainability benefits of bicycling. It is my hope that local businesses and large employers alike partner with us to promote a healthy Richmond, and be a central resource in increasing the overall health of our city," said Mayor Jones. "My administration has the goal of making Richmond one of the most bicycle and pedestrian-friendly cities in the country."

Participants were encouraged to ride their bicycle to and from work, and report days commuted at the end of each week for the entire month of May. Riding a bicycle for only part of the commute, such as to join a car pool or get to a bus stop, were counted. Participants registered online and logged their weekly commutes. All commutes must be reported on the website by Friday, June 7, and the results will be announced by Friday, June 15.

"This is an opportunity to encourage everyone to try bike commuting and possibly make cycling a routine as well as a healthy travel option for commuting or running errands. Richmond Bike Month will also allow Richmond area cyclists to see the city's infrastructure improvements, including widespread bike parking racks and improved bike routes across the city," said the city's Bicycle Coordinator Jakob Helmboldt.

Mayor Jones and the Pedestrian, Bicycling, and Trails Commission celebrated Richmond Bike Month on May 17 during the Bike to Work Day rally at Monroe Park.

Motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians have shared rights and responsibilities when using city streets. Please visit the Richmond Bicycle Commuter Challenge link for safety tips and laws.