Winnipeg, MB - Committed to improving active transportation and promoting cycling in our city of opportunity, Bike to Work Day with partners City of Winnipeg, Bike Winnipeg (formerly Bike to the Future), Climate Change Connection, Manitoba Cycling Association, The W.R.E.N.C.H., the Green Action Centre, and the University of Winnipeg Bike Lab would like to announce the 6th annual “Bike to Work Day Winnipeg” to be held on Friday, June 21, 2013.
Bike to Work Day celebrates the bicycle for everyday transportation. The event highlights the environmental, financial, and health benefits of cycling and advocates for continuous improvements to cycling safety and infrastructure in the city of Winnipeg.
“Over the past six years, The City of Winnipeg has invested about $80 million in Active Transportation projects, including multi-use pathways and bike lanes,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “We are proud supporters of ‘Bike to Work Day’, a program that is helping to encourage more Winnipeggers to choose a daily bicycle commute.
Thanks to the financial support of the City of Winnipeg, Manitoba Public Insurance, Caisse Financial, Manitoba Hydro, The North West Company, Tire Stewardship Manitoba, Manitoba Egg Farmers and Peg City Car Co-op combined with a significant volunteer effort, this event has seen tremendous growth since its inception. With 4000 registered riders and 38 pit stops in 2012, both new highs for this event, Bike to Work Day Winnipeg continues to garner interest and support from citizens all across the city.
With that increased interest, this year there will be over 40 pit stops and an anticipated increase in riders registered. Organizations helping to host the many pit stops include community organizations, universities, numerous non-profit groups, businesses and several bike shops. As the event grows, so does cycling awareness and culture in Winnipeg.
Additional support this year is coming from Assiniboine Credit Union, who will be donating $0.25 per registered cyclist to the Winnipeg Repair Education and Cycling Hub (The W.R.E.N.C.H.) to support their vital work with youth to encourage and advocate for cycling.
All registered cyclists are invited to the Oodena Celebration Circle at The Forks to wind down the day with local music and refreshments. Bike Valet Winnipeg and Natural Cycle will be on site to park and tune-up bikes while cyclists celebrate the day and the dynamic cycling culture in Winnipeg. The BBQ at the Forks begins at 3:30 p.m. There will also be prize draws for registered participants attending the BBQ.
Leading up to June 21, Bike to Work will host a variety of countdown events between Monday, June 17 and Thursday, June 20. These events include a Family Day, Student Day, Bike Film Festival and an Employers Day. More information on these events can be found at the Bike To Work Day website.