bike to work day | 511 Contra Costa - Part 2

BIKE TO WORK DAY: THURSDAY MAY 8, 2014

BTW2014_logo_stackedThe morning commute brought 4,175 bicycle commuters which is more than the combined a.m. and p.m. count for cyclists recorded last year.  So far we have seen our Best Dressed; a Walnut Creek Councilwoman pedaled a bike blender to make a smoothie; and bicycle commuters in San Ramon were treated to burritos. What’s in store for the evening bicycle commute today? You’ll just have to stop by an energizer station and see for yourself. Check out our Facebook page for this morning’s photos.
Contra Costa County Energizer Stations
BTWD Photos & Videos
Bike Commuter of the Year (BCOY)
Bike-Friendly Business Awards
Team Bike Challenge & Company Bike Challenge
Need help planning your route?
Host an Energizer Station Next Year
Our 2014 Local Hosts
Come help celebrate National Bike Month and California Bike Commute Week in May with Bike to Work Day.  Bike to Work Day is a promotional event to encourage non-bike riders to try commuting by bicycle.  The 20th Anniversary of Bike to Work Day is presented by 511.org, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and Kaiser Permanente, with additional support from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, Typekit, BART, Clear Channel Outdoor, Beyond Pix Studios, Adobe, the Canary Challenge, Revolights, REI and Clif Bar.
There will be over 300 Energizer Stations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area where cyclists can stop by for refreshments and promotional items.  511 Contra Costa has supported cyclists and Energizer Station hosts throughout  Contra Costa County since 2001 using Bay Area Air Quality Management District funds and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s half-cent sales tax for transportation funds.

BTWD Photos & Videos

The 511CC flickr stream is chock full of Bike to Work Day photos from years past.  Check out the BTWD 2013 photos.  View older Bike to Work Day photos here.
BTWD 2014 ShirtWant to share your BTWD 2014 experience?  Send your best photos and videos from BTWD for a chance to win 2014 Bike to Work Day t-shirts!  Your submissions (with a brief description) must be sent before Monday, May 12th at 5:00 pm to be eligible for the drawing.  Participants must commute through Contra Costa County. You can use any social network to post your photo (Instagram, Flickr, Facebook, etc.), however entries will be accepted via Twitter (Mention @511CC and use the hashtag #ibikecoco – that’s i bike coco and #btwd2014) and email (submissions@511contracosta.org). Simply tweet @511CC or email us with your photo or a link to your photo.
Watch the official 2014 BTWD video by Beyond Pix:

Bike Commuter of the Year (BCOY)

Congratulations to Ray Pixton from Pleasant Hill, CA as Contra Costa County’s 2014 Bike Commuter of the Year.  In addition to an award, Ray Pixton will receive a set of Revolights and a set of Bay Trail Maps to help with his planning adventures.  Read about other Bike Commuter of the Year (BCOY) award recipients in the Bay Area.

Bike-Friendly Business Awards

Bike East Bay awards three companies the title of “Bike Friendly Business” to recognize their efforts encouraging bicycling.  There are no restrictions: you can nominate your own business, nominate a friend’s business or a company you work for.  Find out how!

Team Bike Challenge & Company Bike Challenge

The competition begins May 1, 2014 between friends and colleagues.

Need help planning your route?

511 Contra Costa’s Bike Mapper is designed to find flat, safe, and fast routes anywhere in Contra Costa County and the Bay Area.  The 511CC Bike Mapper is the only mapper to give you a complete elevation profile for your trip and allows you to choose from nine pre-computed routes.  Or check out our selection of free paper and online bike maps.
Still not sure what to do?  Check out Bike to Work Day: Are you ready? and see you at the Energizer Stations!

Contra Costa Energizer Station List

PM hours in bold
Alamo

  •  Iron Horse Trail at Stone Valley Rd West, 7:30-9:30 am & 4:30-6:00 pm, RPM Mortgage

Antioch

Brentwood

Concord

Danville

  • Iron Horse Trail behind Lunardi’s/Danville Train Depot, 6:30-9:00 am, Street Smarts/Town of Danville
  • Iron Horse Trail at Sycamore Valley Rd, 7:00-9:00 am & 4:30-6:30 pm, The Studio

El Cerrito

El Sobrante

Hercules

  • Hercules Transit Center on Willow Ave, 6:30-8:30 am, Sunnie S./511 Contra Costa

Lafayette

Martinez

Moraga

Oakley

Orinda

Pittsburg

Pleasant Hill

Richmond

San Pablo

San Ramon

Walnut Creek

  • Olympic Blvd & Newell Ave, 6:00-9:00 am & 4:00-7:00 pm, Bike Walnut Creek
  • Near fare gates at Walnut Creek BART, 6:00-9:00 am & 4:00-6:00 pmSports Basement/Mike’s Bikes – Bike mechanics on site and in a.m. 10% off coupon which if used in-store you get a FREE SB water bottle.
  • Near bike racks at Pleasant Hill BART, 6:30-9:00 am & 4:00-7:00 pm, REI/Republic Services -expert bike technician on site to provide a quick check and adjustment of brakes, drive train, tires, chain lube.
  • Iron Horse & Contra Costa Canal Trail intersection, 6:30-9:30 am & 4:00-7:00 pm, Contra Costa Transportation Authority/511 Contra Costa -Lemonade slushies!
  • Iron Horse between Broadway & Newell Ave, 6:30-9:30 am, Whole Foods Market
  • Front of 2730 Shadelands Dr, 7:00-9:00 am, Gilbane – bicycle bells while supplies last!
  • Ygnacio & Contra Costa Canal intersection, 7:00-9:00 am & 5:00-7:00 pm, Encina Bicycle Center -bike mechanic on site to diagnose/make minor repairs.
  • Corner of S. Main St & Newell Ave, 7:00-10:00 am, Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center – a DIY bike repair tools for minor needs, cool bike light, and 5 Thrive Dollars!
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail off N. Wiget Ln, 7:30-9:00 am & 4:00-7:00 pm, Renaissance ClubSport/Sports Basement – A.M. TEAM ClubSport will be there as will for support with any bike concerns or basic instruction if needed.  P.M. bike mechanics on site and 10% off coupon which if used in-store you get a FREE SB water bottle.
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail off Geary Rd & Lexington Pl, 6:00-9:00 am & 4:00-6:30 pm, Generations Church/AssetMark

Want to Host an Energizer Station Next Year?

Energizer Stations are all set for 2014.  If you are interested in volunteering for Bike to Work Day or hosting an Energizer Station next year, please contact us!

A big thank you to our local hosts!

Contra Costa Mayors gear up for Bike to Work Day 2013

Know your Contra Costa Mayors? No worries, we included their photos and how they are participating in Bike to Work Day – maybe you’ll spot a few tomorrow 😉
Daniel Helix, Mayor of Concord, CA
Mayor Daniel Helix of Concord will be at the Downtown Concord BART energizer station greeting bike commuters.


Gayle McLaughlin, Mayor of Richmond
Mayor Gayle McLaughlin of Richmond will be at San Pablo Ave/Richmond Greenway (at 6th St. and Ohio Ave), then at Richmond City Hall.


Cindy Silva, Mayor of Walnut Creek
Mayor Cindy Silva of Walnut Creek will be biking to a TRANSPAC meeting at 9am.


Amy Worth, Mayor of Orinda
Mayor Amy Worth of Orinda will be at the Orinda energizer station.


Image credit (top to bottom): danhelix.com, KALW, Bay Area Open Space Council

Bike to Work Day: Thursday May 9, 2013

The 19th Annual Bike to Work Day – May 9, 2013

Come help celebrate National Bike Month and California Bike Commute Week in May with Bike to Work Day. Bike to Work Day is a promotional event to encourage non-bike riders to try commuting by bicycle. Bike to Work Day in the San Francisco Bay Area is primarily funded by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission with the help of financial donations from event sponsors and volunteers.

Sections

511CC BTWD Photo and Video Contest
2013 Bike Commuter of the Year (BCOY)
2013 Bike-Friendly Business Awards
Team Bike Challenge & Company Bike Challenge
Need help with your route?
2013 Contra Costa Energizer Stations
Our Local Partners
There will be over 200 Energizer Stations throughout the SF Bay Area where cyclists can stop by for refreshments and promotional items. 511 Contra Costa has supported cyclists and Energizer Station hosts throughout  Contra Costa County since 2001 using  Bay Area Air Quality Management District funds and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s half-cent sales tax for transportation funds.
Want to participate in BTWD, but not sure what to do? Check out our blog post, Bike to Work Day: Are you ready?
The 511CC flickr stream is chock full of Bike to Work Day photos from years past. Check out the BTWD photo archives here. We are also compiling an archive of older Bike to Work Day photos, which you can check out here.
Watch the official BTWD video by Beyond Pix:

511CC BTWD Photo and Video Contest

BTWD 2013 TshirtSend your best photos and videos from BTWD for a chance to win 2013 Bike to Work Day t-shirts! Submissions must be sent by May 17, 2013 by 5 pm PST to be eligible for the prize drawing. Participants must commute through Contra Costa County. Entries will be accepted via Twitter (@511CC) and email (submissions@511contracosta.org).

2013 Bike Commuter of the Year (BCOY)

Congratulations to Steve Kersevan who was recognized as Contra Costa County’s Bike Commuter of the Year for his dedication to riding his bike for everyday transportation. See what makes Steve Kersevan a BCOY winner.

2013 Bike-Friendly Business Awards

Congratulations to Sports Basement Walnut Creek, the winner of the medium-size business category. Find out what makes them a Bike-Friendly Business and other winners here.

Team Bike Challenge & Company Bike Challenge

The competition begins May 1, 2013 between friends and colleagues. New for 2013 is the Company Bike Challenge with a Small, Medium and Large Business Category.

Need help with your route?

511 Contra Costa’s Bike Mapper is designed to find flat, safe, and fast routes anywhere in Contra Costa County and the Bay Area. The 511CC Bike Mapper is the only mapper to give you a complete elevation profile for your trip and allows you to choose from nine pre-computed routes. Or check out our selection of free paper and online bike maps.

2013 Contra Costa Energizer Stations

View Contra Costa County Energizer Stations for Bike to Work Day 2013 in a larger map
View all Energizer Station region maps

Contra Costa Energizer Station List

Antioch

AM

  • Delta de Anza Regional Trail between Buchanan & Somersville Rd, 6:00-10:00 am, Tri Delta Transit
  • Mokelumne Trail at Lone Tree Wy. (Sutter Delta Medical Center), 6:00-8:30 am, City of Antioch
  • Deer Valley Rd. & Wellness Wy., 6:00-9:00 am, Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center

PM

  • Mokelumne Trail at Lone Tree Wy. (Sutter Delta Medical Center), 5:00-7:00 pm, City of Antioch

Brentwood

AM

  • Sand Creek Rd. & Shady Willow Ln, 7:00-9:00 am, REI
  • NE corner of City Park between 2nd & Oak St., 7:00-9:00 am, Delta Pedalers Bicycle Club
  • Corner of Rosebrook Terrace & Central Blvd., 7:45-9:00am, Ron Nunn Elementary School

Concord

AM

  • Outside Academic Services Lobby, 7:30-9:00 am, CSU East Bay Concord
  • Near fare gates at Concord BART (with a special appearance by Mayor Daniel Helix), 7:00-9:00 am, Bank of America
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail at Concord Blvd., 6:00-9:00 am, City of Concord

PM

  • Outside Academic Services Lobby, 4:30-6:00 pm, CSU East Bay Concord
  • Iron Horse Regional Trail at Monument Blvd., 4:00-7:00 pm, Monument Community Partnership/Michael Chavez Center

Danville

AM

  • Iron Horse Trail behind Lunardi’s, 6:30-9:00 am, Street Smarts/Town of Danville
  • Iron Horse Trail & Sycamore Valley Rd., 7:00-9:00 am, The Studio

PM

  • Iron Horse Trail & Sycamore Valley Rd., 4:30-6:30 pm, The Studio

El Cerrito

AM

  • Plaza BART Station at “Wave” Bike Lockers, 7:00-9:00 am, City of El Cerrito

El Sobrante

AM

  • 3826 San Pablo Dam Rd., 6:30-9:00 am, The Pedaler Bike Shop

PM

  • 3826 San Pablo Dam Rd., 4:00-6:00 pm, The Pedaler Bike Shop

Hercules

AM

  • Hercules (BART) Park & Ride Lot on Willow Ave., 6:30-8:30 am, Sunnie/511 Contra Costa

Lafayette

AM

  • Lafayette Plaza Park at Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Rd., 6:30-8:30 am, City of Lafayette Bike Pedestrian Advisory Committee/Go Lafayette
  • Outside kiosk at Lafayette BART, 7:30-10:00 am, Hank and Frank Bicycle Shop

Martinez

AM

  • Martinez AMTRAK Station, 5:15-9:30 am, Richard Anderson

PM

  • Bottom of Benicia Bridge in Martinez, 3:30-6:30 pm, Richard Anderson

Moraga

AM

  • Corner of St. Mary’s Rd. & Rheem Blvd., 7:00-9:00 am, Town of Moraga

Orinda

AM

  • St. Stephen’s Bike Trail (end) & Bryant St., 6:30-8:00 am, City of Orinda

Pittsburg

AM

  • Delta de Anza Regional Trail at Railroad Ave. (West), 6:30-8:00 am, City of Pittsburg

Pleasant Hill

AM

  • Contra Costa Canal Trail at Gregory Ln., 7:30-8:45 am, Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District

PM

  • Contra Costa Canal Trail at Golf Club Rd., 3:00-5:30 pm, Diablo Valley College
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail at Gregory Ln., 4:00-6:00 pm, Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District

Richmond

AM

  • Richmond BART, 7:00-9:00 am, City of Richmond
  • Marina Bay Park at Bay Trail & Regatta Blvd., 7:00-9:00 am, City of Richmond
  • Richmond Greenway at 6th St. and Ohio Ave., 7:00-9:00 am, City of Richmond
  • San Pablo Ave. & Macdonald Ave., 7:00-9:00 am, City of Richmond
  • 901 Nevin Ave., 11:30 am-1:30 pm, Kaiser Permanente
  • Bay Trail at S. 46th St., 7:00-9:00 am, UC Berkeley-Richmond Field Station

San Pablo

AM

  • City Hall at 13831 San Pablo Ave., 6:00-9:00 am, City of San Pablo
  • 2600 Mission Bell Dr., 7:30-11:00 am, Contra Costa College

San Ramon

AM

  • Iron Horse Trail at Bollinger Canyon Rd., 6:00-10:00 am, City of San Ramon/Bishop Ranch Transportation Center/Whole Foods Market

Walnut Creek

AM

  • Near fare gates at Pleasant Hill BART, 6:30-9:30 am, REI
  • Iron Horse Regional Trail between Broadway & Newell Ave., 6:30-9:30 am, Whole Foods Market
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail off of N. Wiget Ln., 7:30-9:00 am, Renaissance ClubSport
  • Iron Horse Regional Trail & Contra Costa Canal Trail intersection, 6:30-9:30 am, Contra Costa Transportation Authority/511 Contra Costa
  • Front of 2730 Shadelands Dr., 7:00-9:00 am, ITSI Gilbane
  • Corner of S. Main St. & Newell Ave., 7:00-8:30 am, Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center
  • Near fare gates at Walnut Creek BART, 6:00-9:00 am, Sports Basement
  • Ygnacio Canal & Contra Costa Canal intersection, 7:00-9:00 am, Encina Bicycle Center
  • Ygnacio Canal & Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail intersection, 6:30-9:30 am, Sports Basement

PM

  • Near fare gates at Pleasant Hill BART, 4:00-6:30 pm, Genworth Financial Wealth Management
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail off of N. Wiget Ln., 4:00-7:00 pm, Sports Basement
  • Iron Horse Regional Trail & Contra Costa Canal Trail intersection, 4:00-7:00 pm, 511 Contra Costa/Renaissance ClubSport
  • Corner of S. Main St. & Newell Ave., 4:30-6:30 pm, Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center
  • Near fare gates at Walnut Creek BART, 4:00-6:00 pm, Mike’s Bikes of Walnut Creek
  • Ygnacio Canal & Contra Costa Canal intersection, 5:00-7:00 pm, Encina Bicycle Center
  • Ygnacio Canal & Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail intersection, 4:00-7:00 pm, Sports Basement

Our Local Partners

 

Town of MoragaMCPMCCPleasant Hill Recreation & Park DistrictRon Nunn Elementary

Homemade bicycle trailers

Have you seen this week’s picture of the week in the Contra Costa Times?

A person ponders a home-made bicycle trailer

We happen to know it’s just one of many homemade trailers built by Richard Anderson of Martinez. You can check it out at his Richard’s BTWD Energizer Station: he’ll be at the Martinez Amtrak Station between 5:15-9:30 AM or at the foot of the Martinez/Benicia Bridge (on the Martinez side) from 3:30-6:30 PM .
Photo credit: Contra Costa Times

Are You Ready to Bike to Work? (BTWD 2012)

Yes, it’s that time of year….

All Along The Bike Path
photo credit: Marc van Woudenberg

…Thursday, May 10th, is Bike to Work Day!
If you’ve been contemplating bicycling to work but felt unsure about the idea, rest assured you will not be cycling alone if you decide to participate in Bike to Work Day. You will likely encounter more cyclists along your commute on Bike to Work Day than any other day of the year! Bike to Work Day is the perfect day to pick up cycling – even if only for the occasion– and give it a try with thousands of other Bay Area residents.
Not only can you take comfort in safety in numbers, but you can take advantage of one of 200 “energizer stations” scattered throughout the Bay for the day. What is an energizer station? Simply put, a station providing free beverages, snacks, goodies and encouragement to bicyclists on this special day.
To see if there’s an energizer station anyone along your commute, check out the Bay Area Energizer Station map– from Pittsburg, to San Pablo, to El Cerrito, and San Ramon, Contra Costa County is well represented!
Of course, before you hop on your bike for the big day, it’ll be useful to review some basic road rules and safety procedures:

  • Bicycles have the same responsibilities and rights as motorists, so obey traffic signals and stop signs. Ride with traffic flow; use the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are going. Most cities do not allow cycling on sidewalks although some exceptions do apply and some exceptions are made for youth.
  • Be Predictable. Make your intentions clear to motorists and trail users. Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between parked cars. Signal turns, and check behind you before turning or changing lanes. This is true for cycling on trails as well. The EBRPD asks that you ring or call out when approaching pedestrians.
  • Be visible. Ride where drivers can see you. Use a front white light, red rear light and reflectors for night cycling or when visibility is poor. Make eye contact with drivers so you know they see you.
  • Plan ahead. Anticipate what drivers, pedestrians, and other bicyclists will do next. Watch for turning vehicles and ride outside the door zone of parked cars. Look out for debris, potholes, and utility covers. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.
Santa Monica Door Lane / Bike Lane
Be sure to ride far away enough from parked cars to avoid having to maneuver around drivers swinging their car doors open. photo credit: Gary Kavanagh

  • Equipment Check. Tires should be very firm, check that brakes are working, chain runs smoothly, and quick release wheel levers are closed. Carry repair and emergency supplies appropriate for your ride.

And if you’re cycling on the Iron Horse or Canal Trail, review the Iron Horse and Canal Trail Tips from the East Bay Regional Parks District:

  • Speed. Bicycles shall not be ridden at an unsafe speed, or greater than the posted speed limit. Be aware of how you are perceived by other trail users.
  • Bells are required on bicycles on Park District trails.
  • Bicycles always yield to pedestrians. Before passing, SLOW DOWN, ring bell and establish verbal contact. Give plenty of space when passing and be sure to look ahead while passing to avoid on-coming collisions.
  •  On blind turns, SLOW DOWN, call out, ring bell and ride single file.
(Note: Here’s a map of the Iron Horse Trail)
Once you know the rules, Bike to Work Day is ultimately about fun: be sure to get out there, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and embrace the experience of taking two wheels. And if you’re lucky, every day can be bike to work day – after all, it’s getting easier with solid-green bike lanes spreading across the Bay! Need added inspiration

Happy Cycling!

CK
photo credit: Marc van Woudenberg

Curtis Corlew is 2012's BTWD Bike Commuter of the Year for Contra Costa County

Curtis Corlew, 2012's Bike to Work Day Commuter of the Year for Contra Costa County, CA

Curtis Corlew, an art and journalism professor at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, has won 2012 BTWD Bike Commuter of the Year award for Contra Costa County.
Curtis Corlew bicycled when he was younger and then he stopped. “Boy was I getting big,” Corlew says. “I was over 190, and I’m a small person.” Corlew’s wife convinced him to get back on a bike in 2004 by starting her own bike commute. Now Corlew rides every day, he’s down to about 140, and is so enthusiastic about riding that he incorporates bike consciousness into his teaching.
This year, for example, as one his graphics class assignments, his students have created Bike to Work posters for the Los Medanos College community, urging students, administrators and faculty to bike commute to school on May 10.
Corlew’s route to the college is mostly on the canal bike path. He’s ridden the 16-mile round trip every work day – except one – this year. “The best thing about the commute is how you’re in touch with the seasons and the aromas of the day,” Corlew says. “So as the seasons change you smell flowers or grasses or lavender or somebody’s cooking bacon in the morning. And every day you notice that the days are longer. You’re not sealed off but rather are a part of the world.”
He adds, “Because I’m a teacher I can keep my bicycle in my office. So people see it and they ask me about it. You do something like this and you realize, gosh this is so great! I get better parking. It’s like a free gym membership. We live in the suburbs. We have a car. But it sits in the garage all week long not using gas, and not getting dirty and not having the sun beat down on it. It’s going to last a long long time. And that’s a real cost saving.”
Julie Haas-Wajdowicz, who nominated Corlew wrote, “On campus everyone knows him by his bicycle and asks him for advice on purchasing a commuter bike, bike routes, and bicycle vacations. Bike commuting morphed into vacation cycling: he and his wife cycled Oregon, Washington, Canada, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming last summer. Curtis’s life has changed for the better, just because he started riding his bike to work.”
For Curtis’s full story click here.
Don’t miss out on Bike to Work Day this year, May 10, 2012! Read more about the event and how you can participate.

How biking regularly changed one man's life

Here’s the story of how biking regularly changed one Antioch man’s life. We hope it inspires you to reconsider your commute, participate in Bike to Work Day 2012, or nominate a bike commuter of the year.


I was a bike rider in the 70s and then the 80s, but by 2006, like so many, I got a new job, married, a house and a collection of stress and a lack of time. I got… huge. And I didn’t ride anywhere.
My wife had started riding her bike to her job five miles away. One day as a lark I rode in with her, she on her old, heavy mountain bike with huge tires, me on my 80s Cannondale racing bike. I couldn’t come close to keeping up — and she wasn’t even trying to go fast.
I knew something had to change. With her encouragement I started riding to work at Los Medanos College where I teach. At first my plan was to ride when the weather was nice. I liked it.  As the weather got colder I just put on more clothes. I realized that if I could ski in twenty-degree weather then riding a bike in East Contra Costa’s mild winter was no big deal.
Then it rained.

But I was so used to riding I didn’t want to give it up. It turns out that with a rain jacket I just didn’t get very wet in eight miles. Even though I bought rain pants and shoe covers, it turned out I only need them once or twice a year.
Cycling has become my default commute mode. It’s not a decision I make every morning, it’s just how I get to work. Surprisingly, it doesn’t take much longer than driving, and I can roll right into the campus instead of searching for car parking. On the very rare days I need to bring in something so huge I can’t carry it on my bike and need to use a car, I’m thrown off and usually forget something.

Over the years my bike has changed some. I took off the heavy treaded tires and put on puncture resistant smooth tires, which roll a lot easier. I acquired a rack and panniers to carry papers, clothes and my lunch, plus a bike light and rear blinkie for my evening commutes. My bike is nothing special, but it now has over 10,000 commute miles on it.
My students and colleagues all know I ride. They check if I’m on campus by seeing if my bike is in my office. Often, on a cold or wet day, I’m asked “Did you ride today?” When I answer “Yes” I think they’re happy that there’s something constant in this world.
I admit my bike love spills over into the job. Yesterday I had a student ask me about getting a bike for commuting. I have students and faculty tell me about their cycling achievements and plans. In my graphic design class I have students design “Bike to Work Day” posters to promote the event, and remind the LMC community that we’ll have an energizer station on campus that day.

My bike commute has helped me discover what it’s like to be a kid again, riding to school, in touch with the light, the aroma and the weather of the day. It’s helped me lose a lot of weight. It’s helped me get in shape. All this commuting has morphed to include weekend rides and vacations. My wife and I rode our bikes in Oregon, Washington, Canada, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming last summer. We saw Yellowstone in a way we’d never have been able to from a car.
My life has changed for the better, just because I started riding my bike to work.

Nominate a Contra Costa Bike Commuter of the Year by April 23, 2012 –>

Bike to Work on Thursday, May 10, 2012 –>

Photo credits: Jeremy Brooks, Hepburn Creative, Vijay Gunda

Upcoming Bay Area and California Cycling Events in 2012

Update: We have an updated bike events section with current events for 2013 and beyond. View 2013 Bike Events
Have you been waiting for the warmer weather to bring out your bike? Or do you want to start riding, but not sure how, or where?
We’ve listed both regular and one-time upcoming bicycling events around the Bay Area for 2012 for all biker types. Bike at the San Francisco Zoo, play Bicycle Bingo, bike to the Danville Farmer’s Market, bike through Wine Country and more. Check out our extensive list below, and if we forgot something please leave a comment with the event name, link, and dates(s) and we’ll check it out.
Happy cycling!
Halloween Critical Mass in San Francisco
Photo credit: Steve Rhodes
REOCCURRING EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
Delta Pedalers Bicycle Club | Every Sunday morning and Monday evening

  • Every SUNDAY MORNING (9am) – Starbucks at Balfour Rd. and Fairview Ave. in Brentwood.
  • Every MONDAY EVENING (7pm) – Starbucks at Sand Creek Rd. and Hwy 4 Bypass in Brentwood.

Bicycle Bingo | Every Thursday
Actual Cafe in Oakland (6334 San Pablo Ave.) hosts a weekly game of Bicycle Bingo with proceeds going to various local charities. What is Bicycle Bingo? Think bingo but with someone riding a stationary bicycle, rather than operating a hand crank, spinning the cage with the bingo balls.
Diablo Hills Group Road Ride | Every Saturday
Meet at 9:30 at Mike’s Bikes Walnut Creek location (1615 North California Blvd) for a two hour social ride. Route varies depending on group but include Mt Diablo, Canyon/Pinhurst or flat and rolling roads into Dublin and back and speeds are between 14mph and 17mph.
Sunday Berkeley Road Ride | Every Sunday (rain cancels)
Starting at 10am at the Mike’s Bikes in Berkeley (2161 University Ave), this ride is intended to be enjoyed, so it’s an easy-going pace and no rider is left behind. An excellent ride to consider for beginning road cyclists. The route takes cyclists into the Berkeley hills, bringing water bottle is recommended.
East Bay Bike Party | Second Friday of every month
Welcoming all ages and abilities, this is as much a monthly ride as it is a celebration, meandering throughout the East Bay on bike. The rides change in route and theme each month, but it is easy to stay updated with this information.
Critical Mass | Every month, varies by city
Hosted each month in cities throughout the world, there are a handful of Critical Mass rides in the Bay. Bay Area Critical Mass rides include  San FranciscoBerkeley, and San Jose.
Bike at the San Francisco Zoo | February to October in 2012
The San Francisco Zoo has BikeAbouts scheduled on a monthly basis February through October and on special occasions like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, where riders finish the bike ride with a continental breakfast. Fee: Per peddler – $18 for SFZS Members; $23 Non-Members. For more information, call (415) 753-8135 or email education@sfzoo.org.

Sunday Streets | At least once a month from March to October in 2012
Not bicycle specific, but this event closes down miles of streets throughout neighborhoods in San Francisco to cars and temporarily turns over the streets to non motorized traffic. Fun for the whole family and those looking to get back on two wheels.
Mountain Bike
Photo credit: Carlos Smith

2012 Bay Area Biking and Cycling Events
Fremont Freewheelers | April 2012
The Freemont Freewheelers Bicycle Club has a variety of cycling events throughout April 2012. Check this PDF schedule for details.
Delta Pedalers Danville Farmer’s Market Ride | April 7, 2012
Join Randy for a ride from Heather Farms down the Canal and Iron Horse Trails for a stop at the Danville Farmer’s Market and back for lunch near Heather Farms.
Sea Otter Classic | April 19-22, 2012
A four day event with an expo, races for professional and amateur cyclists, festivities for all ages and more! The Sea Otter Classic is held at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area (1025 Monterey Salinas Hwy 68, Salinas).
Cycle for Sight | April 21, 2012
Choose from three scenic courses between 15 and 50 miles that meander through the hills and vineyards of Napa. The ride starts and finishes at Justin Siena High School, 4026 Maher Street – Napa, CA 94558, where you can enjoy wine tasting, beer tasting and local cuisine at the Cycle for Sight Wine and Music Festival will take place. Proceeds will go to two local organizations, Enchanted Hills Camp For The Blind & Visually Impaired and The California Veterans “Pathway Home Project.”
40th Annual Primavera Century | April 22, 2012
100 mile, 100k, 70k and 25 mile routes through beautiful scenery including the Calaveras Reservoir, Palomares Canyon, Coyote Hills Regional Park, and the Altamont Pass Wind Farm. Enjoy homemade goodies at every stop and a hot meal and massage at the end.
Delta Pedalers Fuddruckers Ride | April 28, 2012
Join Randy for a scenic loop of the Iron Horse, Contra Costa Canal, and Ygnacio Trails, with lunch at Fuddruckers following the ride.
Bike To Work Day | May 10, 2012
This is perhaps the bicycling event of the year, and best of all? It’s free. Bike to work, and stop by an energizer station along the way for goodies and moral support. This is an especially great day to try biking to work if you’ve never done so before.
Levee Bike Tour | May 12, 2012
Want to “learn about the Salt Pond Restoration Project and see Silicon Valley from a new angle”? This free ride allows one to ride a relatively flat, though unpaved, route surrounded by nature. The ride is recommended for ages 14 and up.
Ride For A Reason | May 12, 2012
A century ride from Oakland to Sacramento, with a cause– to bring more funding to Public Schools. The event ends with participating in the Rally For Education at the steps of the State Capitol (1416 10th St., Sacramento). Shorter distances of 65 and 45 miles can be picked up in Suisun train station and Vacaville, respectively.
Amgen Tour of California | May 13-20, 2012
Stages one through three will travel through the Bay Area: stage one starts in Santa Rosa; stage two from San Francisco to Santa Cruz County; stage three from San Jose to Livermore.
America By Bicycle Cross Country Challenge | June 1-July 24, 2012
Ever wanted to explore the United States, cost to coast, by bicycle? This is your chance to fulfill that goal. In this event cyclists will cover an average of 75 miles a day and enjoy 5 days of non-cycling along the way. While the event will take 52 days, for those unable to commit to so many days, the ride is also offered in six sections.
Night & Day Challenge | June 2-3, 2012
A foot, bike, or duathlon race allowing participants to explore San Francisco like never before, visiting sixty point-valued checkpoints placed throughout the city consisting of landmarks, parks, and even some obscure places in any order for 3, 7, or 16 hours. Participants receive maps upon registration where they choose their own route.
Sequoia Century Bicycle Ride | June 3, 2012
The Western Wheels Bicycle Club presents the Sequoia Century, the club’s big annual event, with rides ranging from 20 miles to 200km in Palo Alto.
Alt. | June 16, 2012
Alt. is more than a bike ride. It’s not just bikers tackling Mt. Hamilton, Mt. Tamalpais and Mt. Diablo in one day, using public transportation between the peaks. It’s a unique opportunity to get out, get moving, and get involved.
Best Of The Bay | June 16, 2012
Best of the Bay is said to offer “the finest cycling roads through the East Bay hills strung together into one epic ride” with ride distances ranging from 83 to 125 miles, depending on how great of a challenge one is looking to take on. Starting lines vary by route.
Delta Pedalers Camping Trip | June 21-24, 2012
The annual Delta Pedalers camping trip is scheduled for June 21, 22, 23, leaving on the 24th. The camp site is at Sandy Beach County Park along the Sacramento River, just outside Rio Vista.
Giro Bello Classic | July 7, 2012
This event allows cyclists to choose from three routes – a century, metric century, or fun route – as they cycle through Sonoma County, offering beautiful sights and proceeds going towards the Rotary’s Polio Plus eradication program and local charitable projects.
Healdsburg Harvest Century Ride  | July 21, 2012
Try out what is considered among the “greatest rides on Earth”,  a pleasant–though moderately–challenging tour through the Sonoma Wine Country. Distances start at 23 miles and go upward to 60 miles. Ticket price includes scenic rest stops, gorgeous scenery and an after-party lunch.
California Coast Classic | September 9-16, 2012
A frequently contemplated bicycle trip is one from “The Bay to LA”, if you are one of many who think about taking on this challenge the California Coast Classic lets you pedal from San Francisco to Los Angeles on this eight day, 525-mile ride (two day, 150 mile ride from Buellton to Los Angeles also an option). The event is held to raise money for the Arthritis Foundation.
Multiple Sclerosis Waves to Run Ride | September 22-23, 2012
The National MS Society holds this two day ride in which cyclists travel from UCSF Mission Bay Campus in San Francisco to Sonoma Mountain Village in Rohnert Park. There are various routes offered, and a post-ride celebration takes place at the finish line.
Napa TrekSeptember 29, 2012
A charity ride to raise money to develop treatments and a cure for ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
Levi’s GranFondo | September 29, 2012
A Santa Rosa charity ride to benefit various charities throughout Sonoma County, including at-risk youth organization and LIVESTRONG. This is the fourth year of the event and there are three routes for rides can choose from.
Golden Wheel Awards | TBA
Giving credit to community supporters and city officials who make streets safer for cycling in San Francisco, this event is presented by the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition.


For even more Bay Area biking events, check out http://www.bikecal.com/.

Bike to Work Day – 25% bigger than ever!

Did you notice a few more people riding into work on two wheels last week?
Last Thursday, over 4,360 people in Contra Costa County enjoyed the beautiful weather from their bicycles. That’s 25% more than in 2010, which was the record-setting year itself.
Dozens of energizer stations and hundreds of volunteers passed out goodies and snacks. People got out and got moving for their own health, the environment, and peace of mind.
What this your first year biking to work? How did it go? Will you keep it up, even once a week? Get the 511 resources you need to keep going.
Check out these pictures from people along the route, or the rest on the 511CC Flickr stream. Look out for the pictures from the Commuting Fair and Bike Tune-Up on May 4 at Brown and Caldwell.
Have one to share? Tweet it to us!

511 Contra Costa salutes Brown and Caldwell for their Better Way to Work Week

Brown and Caldwell in Walnut Creek kicked off Bike to Work Day 2011 with their own Better Way to Work Week.  511 Contra Costa attended the Commuting Information Fair during the week leading up to Bike to Work Day.  The fair was intended to give employees on the fence about commute alternatives a push in the right direction.

511 Contra Costa provided information about public transportation, biking/walking trail maps, the Guaranteed Ride Home Program, and our very own Clean Air bags.  Brown and Caldwell’s conference room turned into a Bike to Work Day prep shop as coworkers volunteered their time tuning up bikes, making adjustments, and sharing tips on bicycle safety with their fellow colleagues.

511CC even provided $20 incentives to those who pledged to take a commute alternative during Brown and Caldwell’s Better Way to Work Week or beyond.  One lucky winner received a BTWD bag filled with goodies and munchies!


Thanks for the invitation Brown and Caldwell–we had fun! And congrats to all that participated during Better Way to Work Week.  We hope you continue your green transportation ways!
To schedule your own worksite event to inform employees of alternative commute options and programs, sign up here.

Bike to Work Day: Thursday May 12, 2011

17th Annual Bike to Work Day – May 12, 2011.


Come help celebrate National Bike Month and California Bike Commute Week in May with Bike to Work Day.   Bike to Work Day is a promotional event to encourage non-bike riders to try commuting by bicycle. Bike to Work Day in the San Francisco Bay Area is primarily funded by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission with the help of financial donations from event sponsors and volunteers.
There were over 100 energizer stations throughout the bay region where cyclists can stop by for refreshments and promotional items.511 Contra Costa has supported cyclists and Energizer Station hosts throughout  Contra Costa County since 2001 using  Bay Area Air Quality Management District funds and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s half-cent sales tax for transportation funds.
Want to participate in BTWD, but not sure what to do? Check out our blog post, Bike to Work Day: Are you ready?

Contra Costa Bike Commuter of the Year

Brentwood’s Al Lim was the 2011 Contra Costa County  Bike Commuter of the Year. Read how Al’s determination, humility and dedication to bicycling inspires his friends, family and coworkers. More >>

Contra Costa Team Bike Challenge Winners

Congratulations to EBMUD for winning the top Contra Costa 2011 Team Bike Challenge for BTWD.
Hydrologic Cyclers
276 pts / 2,083.4 miles
East Bay Municipal Utility District
Contra Costa

Energizer Stations and Bike Maps

The Bike to Work Day website has google maps of energizer stations all over the bay area. Click here for a map of Contra Costa County energizer stations. A list of all energizer station region maps is available here.
Need help with your route? Check out our selection of free paper and on-line bike maps.

Bike to Work Day Materials

Download the BTWD flyer, employer tool-kit information, and Team Bike Challenge information.

Bike to Work Day Photos

The 511CC flickr stream is chock full of Bike to Work Day photos from years past. Check out the  Bike to Work Day photo archives  here. We are also compiling an archive of older Bike to Work Day photos, which you can check out here.
Submit your photos and/or videos of Bike to Work Day to enter for a chance to win $25 Peet’s Coffee & Tea! Submissions must be sent by May 18, 2011 5pm PST to be eligible for the prize drawing. Send your photos and/or videos via Twitter or email them to submissions@511contracosta.org.

BTWD in Contra Costa Made Possible by Our Local Partners

Thanks to the following public agencies and companies who are sponsoring Energizer Stations.

Al Lim: 2011 Contra Costa Bike Commuter of the Year!

511 Contra Costa congratulates Al Lim, 2011’s Bike Commuter of the Year!
What does it take to be a Bike Commuter of the Year?
In Al’s case, it requires a lot of determination and being an inspiration to others.
“Our man Al commutes on his bikes, including ?fixed gears, in all weather conditions and against many challenges – including darkness, strong head winds and several difficult intersections,” says Michael Thomas, Al’s cycling companion and the person who nominated Al for Contra Costa Bike Commuter of the Year. “Humility is true about everything Al does and because of this he is an inspiration to all who know him,” Mr. Thomas adds.
Every day, Al’s commute takes him from his home in Brentwood on the far east side of the State Route 4 Bypass, eastward along the Delta De Anza Trail, to the west side of Bay Point where Al works as the General Manager of Criterion Catalysts & Technologies, making products that allow petroleum products and fuels to be cleaner. An employee at the plant, who now regularly bicycles to work, had told Al that at his previous employer, bicycle commuting would not have been considered acceptable.  But since the boss was now doing it every day, it legitimized bicycle commuting at Criterion. “When our staff saw that their boss bicycled to work, it showed them that it was OK to do,” says Al. “When I started work at Criterion, I was the only one who biked. Now, several of our staff have regularly bicycled to work, from homes in Oakley, San Ramon and Oakland.” Al takes a lot of pride in the fact that Eastern Contra Costa is more bikeable every year. When friends from out of state visit, Al always seems to fit in a bike ride and he delights when his out of town guests marvel at the Bay Area’s great weather and the many bike lanes and bike trails in the East Bay.
Al makes a point to ride to work dressed in normal attire, because “that’s what bicyclists do” but Al is also inspired by how colleagues at Criterion’s European affiliates view and utilize bicycles. They think of their bikes quite differently. “Here, bicycling is a pastime and a bike is a possession that you take care of. In Europe, everyone rides a bike to get where they are going and it would be a joke to wash your bike. It would be like washing your hammer-a bike is tool.” And there are more bike facilities in Europe on which to commute to work. On that note, Al is looking forward to the re-connection of the Mokelumne Trail at the State Route 4 Bypass, which severed the bike trail several years ago. “Before the bypass, it was much better and safer to bicycle down Lone Tree Way,” Al recalls. “Now, Lone Tree is a dangerous street. The re-connected bike trail would open up the shopping centers to the residential neighborhoods for short trips to places like Trader Joe’s, and get more people biking to work.”
Al and his wife Mai have three kids, all of whom bicycle. His teenage sons, Zack and Max run track & field and sometimes cross train on their bikes, while his 12-year old daughter Sydney rides the most.  “My cycling sets a good example to my kids for their good health,” emphasizes Al.
Al also runs an orphaned bike garage, accepting all bikes that his friends have abandoned over the years. He fixes many up and has given several away to friends in need of a bike. Al is also a regular guitar entertainer at the Delta Pedalers annual holiday party. Because of his commitment to bicycling and his inspiration to co-workers, friends and family, Al Lim is our Bike Commuter of the Year in Contra Costa County.
Read about this year’s other winners.

One More Day to Bike to Work Day 2011!

Bike to Work Day is tomorrow! Are your tires pumped? Is your seat at the right height? Have you picked a route past one of Contra Costa County’s energizer stations?
Why not?
Last week, volunteers stuffed all kinds of donated freebies (gym passes, Clif Bars, Amtrak coupons, to name a few) into hundreds and hundreds of canvas tote bags. The only way to get one is to stop at an energizer station. Don’t miss out!
Antioch

  • Mokelumne Trail at Sutter Delta Hospital, 6- 8:30am and 4-6 pm, City of Antioch
  • Corner of Deer Valley Road and Wellness Way, 6:00am-9:30am, Kaiser Antioch Medical Center
  • Somersville/Buchanan, 7-9am, Tri Delta Transit
  • Brentwood

  • Sand Creek Road / Shady Willow Lane, 7-9am, Brentwood REI
  • City Park, 2nd and Oak Street, 7-9am, Delta Pedalers
  • Corner of Rosebrook Terrace and Central Blvd. 7:45-9am, Ron Nunn Elementary School
  • Danville

  • Iron Horse Trail behind Lunardi’s , 6:30-9am, Town of Danville and the San Ramon Valley Street Smarts Program
  • Iron Horse Trail at Paraiso Drive/ John Baldwin School, 7-9am, Street Smarts and Danville Police Department
  • El Cerrito

  • Bike Lockers at the Ohlone Greenway (across from the El Cerrito Plaza BART), 7-9am, City of El Cerrito
  • El Sobrante

  • 3826 San Pablo Dam Road (both sides of the street), 7-9am, and 4-6pm The Pedaler Bike Shop
  • Lafayette

  • Lafayette Plaza Park (corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Moraga Rd. ), 6-8:30am City of Lafayette-Bike/Pedestrian Advisory Committee
  • Lafayette Plaza Park, 3-5pm, Lafayette Chamber of Commerce
  • Lafayette BART (outside Lafayette BART Kiosk), 7-9am, Hank and Frank Bicycles
  • Martinez

  • Capitol Corridor Station, 5:15am-9:30am, Richard Anderson
  • 4797 Imhoff Place, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District
  • Orinda

  • Moraga Way/Brookwood Rd (Beverages and More parking lot), 6-8am, City of Orinda
  • Pittsburg

  • DeAnza Trail at Railroad, 6:30-8:30am, City of Pittsburg
  • LMC Campus – Quad Area, 9am-1pm, Los Medanos College
  • Pleasant Hill

  • Pleasant Hill Contra Costa Center BART  6:30-9am REI, Concord
  • Iron Horse Trail just north of Pleasant Hill BART Station, 4-6:30pm Genworth
  • Contra Costa Canal Trail / Golf Club Road, 4:30pm-6:30pm, DVC
  • Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART station (near paid area), 4-6:30pm, Contra Costa Transportation Authority
  • Richmond

  • Richmond Bay Trail at Marina Bay Park, SunPower and Richmond Spokes, 7-9am
  • 914 Marina Way South at Main Entrance, 7-9am, Kaiser Permanente Regional Laboratory
  • Richmond BART Station near bike lockers in upper courtyard, 7-9am, Building Blocks for Kids/Major Taylor
  • The Greenway,  Ohio Ave and 6th Street, 7-9am, Groundwork Richmond
  • Richmond Home Depot at Greenway (Connector between Ohlone Trail and Richmond Greenway), 7 -9am, Richmond Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee
  • San Pablo

  • 13052 San Pablo Ave, 7-10am, CARS (Complete Auto Repair Service)
  • San Ramon

  • Iron Horse Trail / Crow Canyon Rd 6-9am, City of San Ramon and PG&E
  • Iron Horse Trail / Bollinger Canyon,6:00 am – 6:00pm,  Bishop Ranch Transportation Center
  • 100 Sunset Dr., 8am-6pm, Whole Foods Market San Ramon
  • Walnut Creek

  • South Broadway / Newell, 6:30-9am, Whole Foods Market
  • Iron Horse Trail / Canal Trail Crossing, 6:30-9am, County Connection and 511 Contra Costa/Renaissance ClubSport 4-7pm
  • Ygnacio Valley Rd/N. California corner (BART), 6-9am, City of Walnut Creek
  • 2901 Ygnacio Valley Rd / Breeze Way, 6:30-9am, Encina Bike Shop
  • North Wiget on the Canal Trail, 7:30-9:30am, Renaissance ClubSport
  • 1931 First Ave, Lindsay Wildlife Museum, 9am to noon, Lindsay Wildlife Museum
  • Walnut Creek BART station, 4-6pm, Mikes Bikes of Walnut Creek
  • Canal Trail off North Wiget, 4-6pm, Kaiser Permanente
  • 320 Lennon Lane (Kaiser), 12-2pm, Kaiser Permanente
  • Visit an Energizer Station on Bike to Work Day


    What is an Energizer Station, you ask?
    You know those tents full of cheering volunteers, water, and snacks along marathon routes? Give them canvas bags full of freebies and coffee, put them along your bike commute, and you’ve got a Bike to Work Day Energizer Station. Dozens of these tents will be set up along major bike corridors throughout Contra Costa County on Thursday, May 12. Some are sponsored by companies, cities, or just regular volunteers that like cheering on active life styles and handing out coffee.
    Are you ready to plan your route for Bike to Work Day, on Thursday, May 12? Make sure you stop by at least one of these on your way.
    Corner of Deer Valley Road and Wellness Way
    Hours: 6:00-9:30am
    Somersville Rd/Buchanan Rd
    Hours: 7:00-9:00am
    Mokelumne Trail at Sutter Delta Hospital
    Hours: 6:00-8:30am and 4:00-6:00pm
    Sand Creek Rd & Shady Willow Ln
    Hours:7:00-9:00am
    2nd St & Oak St
    Hours:7:00-9:00am
    Iron Horse Trail behind Lunardi’s
    Hours: 6:30-9:00am
    Bike Lockers at the Ohlone Greenway (across from the El Cerrito Plaza BART)
    Hours: 7:00-9:00am
    3826 San Pablo Dam Rd (both sides of the street)
    Hours: 7:00-9:00am and 4:00-6:00pm
    Lafayette Plaza Park (corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Moraga Rd.)
    Hours:6:00-8:30am and 3:00-5:00pm
    Capitol Corridor Station
    Hours: 5:15-9:30am
    4797 Imhoff Place (1/2 mile from Iron Horse Trail)
    Hours: 7:00-8:30am
    Moraga Way/Brookwood Rd. (Beverages and More Parking Lot)
    Hours:6:00-8:00am
    Los Medanos College Campus (Quad Area)
    Hours: 9:00-1:00pm
    DeAnza Trail at Railroad
    Hours:6:30-8:30am
    Pleasant Hill Contra Costa Centre BART Station
    Hours: 6:30-9:00am and 4:00-6:30pm
    Iron Horse Trail just North of Pleasant Hill BART Station
    Hours: 4:00-6:30pm
    Contra Costa Canal Trail/ Golf Club Road
    Hours: 4:30-6:30pm
    Bay Trail at Marina Bay Park
    Hours: 6:00-9:00am
    914 Marina Way South at Main Entrance
    Hours: 7:00-9:00am
    Richmond BART Station near bike lockers in upper courtyard
    Hours: 6:00-9:00am
    The Greenway, Ohio Ave and 15th Street
    Hours: 6:00-9:00am
    Green Way Trail near Home Depot MacDonald/San Pablo Ave.
    Hours: 6:30-9:00am
    13052 San Pablo Ave
    Hours: 7:00-10:00am
    Iron Horse Trail/Crow Canyon Rd.
    Hours: 6:00-9:00am
    Iron Horse Trail/ Bollinger Canyon Rd.
    Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm
    South Broadway/Newell
    Hours: 6:30-9:00am
    Iron Horse Trail/ Canal Trail Crossing
    Hours: 6:30-9:00am and 4:00-7:00pm
    Ygnacio Valley Rd & N California Blvd. Corner (BART)
    Hours: 6:00-9:00am
    2901 Ygnacio Valley Rd./Breeze Way
    Hours: 6:30-9:00am
    North Wiget on the Canal Trail
    Hours: 7:30-9:30am
    1931 1st Ave, Lindsay Wildlife Museum
    Hours: 9:00-12:00 noon
    Rose Brook Terrace and Central Blvd.
    Hours: 7:45-9:00am

    Bike to Work Day 2011: Are you Ready?

     Bike to Work Day may seem far off in May, but don’t wait until then to get ready. Daylight Savings Time is almost here, so dust off that old 10 speed. Here are some tips to get you going.
    1) Know your bike. Has your bike been collecting dust over the winter? It happens.  Have a bike shop pump up your tires  or do it yourself. Learn the ABC check (air, brakes, chain/cassette/cranks).
    2) Know your gear. Dust out that helmet. Dig through your closet and find some clothes that will be comfortable and visible. Many employers are loosening their dress code on Bike to Work Day, but you don’t need head-to-toe spandex to be have fun on your bike.
    3) Take a practice ride. Biking in traffic is a lot easier and feels much safer when you knows the rules. Read up on bike traffic laws or find a bike safety class near you. Get comfortable riding before your big trek.
    4) Know your route. Is there a bike lane on your way? 511CC’s Bike Mapper can help you find a route with just the right amount of climb. Also, dozens of energizer stations will be set up on Bike to Work Day, with hundreds of volunteers distributing donated refreshments, goodies, and commemorative canvas tote bags.  Stay tuned for energizer locations as May 9 draws near. Check out these bags from past years.

    Most importantly: 5) Have fun! Find some friends to ride with you. If you’re a long time bike commuter, one of the 34% percent of people who rode their first Bike to Work Day in 2010, or just getting started this year – get out there and have fun!
    More pictures of past Bike to Work Days are available on 511CC’s Flickr stream.

    Nominations open for 2011 bike commuter of the year

    Do you know someone in your community who is committed to making every day a “Bike to Work Day”? Does this person epitomize and actualize the health, environmental, social and economic benefits of bicycling? The Bike Commuter of the Year inspires merely by telling others about their commute, offering encouraging words and advice to novice riders.
    Nominate that deserving friend, neighbor or co-worker for this prestigious award online at: http://www.youcanbikethere.com/bcoy
    It only takes a few minutes (and no more than 200 words) to let the regional Bike to Work Day coordinators know who’s tearing up the pavement and trails the other 364 days of the year.  Nominations are welcomed until April 14.
    To get inspired, read about Contra Costa County’s 2010 Bike Commuter of the Year, Louis Sandoval.
    Louis is a consummate bicyclist. He lives in San Pablo and commutes by bicycle to his part-time job as an adult education teacher for the West Contra Costa Unified School District. He commutes between two job locations in Richmond and San Pablo on his Bridgestone and has done so for more more than 5 years. “My Bridgestone is a real beater,” Louis says. “It’s a tank of a bike, but has a real rack and a pannier, and does the job of carrying my books, groceries, everything, rain or shine.”
    His commutes also include jaunts into Hayward to visit his mother and to take classes at Cal State East Bay. Even at 11pm at night you can find him on the street making his way home from Hayward, via Oakland, Emeryville, Berkeley, Albany, El Cerrito and Richmond. When needed he utilizes BART to transport his trusty steed and himself around the Bay to appointments and classes. “It’s not the distance. It’s not the weather or the terrain. It’s the traffic that’s sometimes the toughest part,” Louis states about bicycling longer distances.
    Louis has ridden bicycles since childhood. He participated in BMX races as a boy. He is absorbed by bicycling e.g. easily identifying bicycles and equipment at a glance, their engineering and history. He favors steel-frame bikes. And when he rides, Louis is a consummate rider. He rides rain or shine. As a kid, he had a girlfriend in Southern California and he rode his bicycle from San Pablo down the coast into the San Joaquin Valley via Kettleman City down country roads until he met up with his girlfriend in Southern California.
    He teaches mathematics to adults pursuing a GED diploma and is going back to San Jose State University this Fall to get a degree in biomedical engineering. Louis dropped out of high school many years ago and realized in his twenties a need for education. He went back to school attending Contra Costa College and San Jose State University. He earned a degree in Engineering from San Jose State. During his studies at SJSU he participated in a short internship with bicycle legend “Phil Wood”. “I’m looking forward to riding to San Jose State along the Bay Trail past the Oakland Airport and across the new San Leandro Slough Bridge and down south along the Bay Trail,” Louis says. The new San Leandro Slough Bridge is scheduled to open on Bike to Work Day this year.
    Read more about last year’s winners.

    This Week’s Headlines in Transportation & Transit: May 15-21, 2010

    BART will close tracks between Walnut Creek & Pleasant Hill over Memorial Day weekendUpcoming Events & Meetings

    Local News (Contra Costa County & East Bay)

    Bay Area & California News

    To receive additional updates and enter our monthly drawing for $25 to Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Follow 511CC on Twitter and Like 511 Contra Costa on Facebook.