Traveler Spotlight

Occupation: Environmental Scientist – Public Works/Water Resource Protection – MPE

How do you usually get to work? 

I typically bike to work 3 days, carpool with my wife one day, and flex/telecommute one day. I originally started riding my bike to work to get more exercise and to stay in shape during the summer months. After getting into a routine, I realized it has helped with stress, reduced pollution, and saved me money. The city has also added incentives and prizes, and this has encouraged me to extend my biking and carpooling all year.

Why did you decide to commute this way? 

I decided to commute this way for less wear and tear on our car, no parking expense, and we are a one car household.

How long have you been using this commute option? 

I started biking/carpooling when I joined the city in 2019.

How far is your commute? How long does it take you each way?

9.5 Miles, 50-60minutes

What is your favorite thing about your commute? 

Overall health benefits – how it makes meet feel.

What is a challenge of your commute? How have you overcome that challenge?

The extra time, gear, clothing for work, lunch, and daily motivation.

I started doing more prep work on what I needed for the entire week. I also purchased some good biking gear, a waterproof bike bag, rain pants, and a raincoat. In the beginning, there were times that I didn’t ride because I would come up with an excuse (too tired, not ready, too rainy, etc.) but as I got into the habit it became addictive, and my sense of accomplishment led me to do it more regularly.

Tell us a favorite or interesting commute story.

They all seem to blend together – but what stands out the most for me is my added appreciation of the natural beauty we have here – sunrises & sunsets, smells (cherry blossoms & rain), wildlife I’ve seen (raccoons, coyotes, eagles, and possums) and one day I helped someone check to see if they had missed the bus. They were worried they weren’t going to make it to pick up their child from daycare. I was able to let them know the bus was on its way. All and all I feel more connected to the community when I commute this way.

How does your commute help you save time and/or money?

It doesn’t help me save time – but I feel less worried about it.
It saves me a lot of money – I haven’t added it all up but looking at it quickly I see the following benefits:

• Get paid $75 a month (plus added 5 dollars a day)
• Reduced gas bill & millage on car
• Encourages me to pack my lunch and eat healthier
• Cheaper auto insurance

How does your employer help accommodate your commute option?

There is a safe storage area for my bike and there are prizes and cash incentives.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to use a climate-friendly commute option?

Try it! It helps with stress, gives you a sense of accomplishment, and you don’t worry about traffic.