From the Regional Planning Commission:

Ever wondered what it would be like to ride your bike to and from work every day? Now’s your chance to feel the wind blowing on your face during your commute! May is National Bike Month and the League of American Bicyclists is promoting Bike-to-Work Week beginning Monday May 16th through Friday the 20th. The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham and CommuteSmart will host a Bike-to-Work Day group ride on Friday, May 20, 2011. The event is free and open to anyone with a bike and helmet.

Cyclists from all over the region will start at Railroad Park at 7:00 a.m. and embark on a 6.5 mile ride through downtown Birmingham. The route will take cyclists through multiple parts of the city center, allowing riders to experience the convenience of active transportation. Cyclists will end their 45 minute ride back at the park with a photo opportunity and rally, including free healthy snacks, drinks, and event t-shirts. The event has grown in participation every year as more and more commuters see the value of ditching four wheels for the freedom of two!

The Birmingham Bike-to-Work Day ride is sponsored by the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham (www.rpcgb.org), and CommuteSmart (www.commutesmart.org). Promotional and logistical support is being graciously provided by the Birmingham Police Department, Railroad Park Foundation, City Action Partnership, Operation New Birmingham, Green Resource Center for
Alabama, Birmingham Bicycle Club, Bici Coop, Vulcan Tri-athletes, Alabama Bicycle Coalition, Alabama Partners for Clean Air, Jefferson County Department of Health, YMCA Birmingham and area bike shops.

Throughout America, cyclists will participate in this annual initiative by conducting group rides that highlight the benefits of cycling. Cycling is an emission-free form of active transportation that is good for both air quality and public health. Riding your bike to work, instead of driving, improves air quality by reducing vehicle emissions, creates less stress and improves cardiovascular function.