More than 21,000 bicyclists in Colorado have registered to commute to work Wednesday on two wheels, including the state’s governor and Denver’s mayor.
Over the years, Bike to Work Day has motivated thousands to give up their cars for the workday. Rising gas prices have fueled the popularity of the event.
This year’s registration set a record, said Sarah Carroll, Bike to Work Day coordinator with the Denver Regional Council of Governments.
“It’s a huge rise from years past,” Carroll said. “It’s partially from the price of gas and also people want to do things that are environmentally friendly and to have a healthy commute.”
Bike to Work Day 2008 will draw heavily from the state’s 1.5 million active cyclists, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation, and motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians should be aware of one another to help make the event safe.
“We’re asking everyone … to be respectful of everyone’s right to the state’s roadways,” said Betsy Jacobsen, CDOT’s bicycling/pedestrian coordinator.
Gov. Bill Ritter and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper are expected to bike to work.
Among the 21,000 who have registered for the event are roughly 7,800 riders who will be participating for the first time, Carroll said.
Part of the day’s program will include prizes for participants and more than 100 stations that will serve breakfast and support riders.
More than 100,000 auto vehicle miles are taken off the road because of the bike day, organizers say.
Kieran Nicholson: 303-954-1822 or knicholson@denverpost.com.
