Intercity Transit was recognized as one of the first transit systems in the U.S. to be designated a Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists.
Along with Intercity Transit, 62 other organizations — from across the private and public sectors — earned the Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB) designation this year.
The recognition for Intercity Transit, known for its sustainability efforts, is due to its long history supporting bicycling as an earth friendly and appealing commute option, as well as for its substantial bike programs. One of those programs is the popular bicycle commuter contest, which engages about 1,500 cyclists each May in bicycling to work, school, and on errands, reducing harmful CO2 emissions by 60 tons and an estimated 120,000 miles of car trips each time.
The agency also runs an innovative Bike PARTners program in which a largely volunteer staff rebuilds discarded bicycles and works with elementary school students teaching bike mechanics and safety, resulting in the students “earning” bikes for their future transportation use. And last year Intercity Transit began a staff bicycle program for employee use when traveling to nearby meetings and mid-day errands, effectively expanding employee wellness initiatives.
“When employees bike, great things happen,” said Ann Freeman-Manzanares, interim general manager for Intercity Transit. “By encouraging a bike friendly culture, we decrease our carbon foot print, connect with our community more, and promote a fun and healthy work culture.”
More than 500 organizations now have the BFB designation (past and current designees). This enables these organizations access to a variety of free tools and technical assistance from the League of American Bicyclists toward enhancing their bicycling culture.
“More and more business leaders are realizing that bicycling is a simple and cost-effective way to move toward a more productive company,” said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists. “Promoting healthy transportation is increasingly attractive to employers and prospective employees — and it’s moving America toward a more sustainable future.”
