Halloween isn't the only thing being celebrated next week.
The New Westminster chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition is reminding local residents that Bike to Work Week runs from Oct. 31 to Nov. 6.
With the Lower Mainland's mild West Coast climate, organizers say its possible to continue a healthy, congestion-free commute by bike for most of the fall and winter months, and that participating in regular active transportation can keep people in shape and ready for winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing.
Bike to Work Week is a communitybuilding program aimed at changing the way Metro Vancouver residents view biking to work by encouraging everyone to try it. Bike to Work Week is a free program that combines incentives, workplace camaraderie, healthy living and environmental responsibility.
Bike to Work Week has many components designed specifically to reduce the barriers, both mental and physical, that tend to keep people from cycling.
The goal is participation and inclusion. The target audiences are workplaces, communities and individual commuters throughout Metro Vancouver.
The event encourages avid cyclists and new riders alike to sign up, log their commutes and win prizes. Throughout the week, the coalition hosts motivational commuter stations on high-traffic bike paths where cyclists can stop on their morning or afternoon commute for coffee, snacks, bike tuning from volunteering mechanics and daily draws for prizes.
These stations serve as celebratory gathering places for cyclists on their way to or from work.
In New Westminster, there will be a commuter station at 22nd Street SkyTrain station along the B.C. Parkway from 6: 30 to 9 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 3. Free bike mechanic services will be provided by Cap's Cycle in Sapperton.
When cycling in the darker, wetter season its best to wear water resistant, reflective clothing, place appropriate lighting on your bike and choose designated cycling routes.
For more information and to sign up for Bike to Work Week visit the website www. biketoworkmetrovan.ca.
