Durangoans will again have the opportunity to commute to work by river instead of roadways.

The city of Durango is bracing for its third annual Float to Work Day, where residents climb aboard their kayaks, rafts and paddle boards and take to the Animas River for a leisurely morning ride into town.

Float to Work Day 2023 is scheduled for 7-9 a.m. on Aug. 18. It will start at at Memorial Park at 2901 East Third Ave. Riders will float from there to Schneider Park at 950 Roosa Ave., according to a city news release.

“In the spirit of clean commuting, please leave your car at home if possible,” the release said. “... We encourage walking, biking, busing and carpooling to get to Memorial Park.”

The new tradition is part of the city’s larger clean commuting initiatives, aimed at getting cars off roads and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The city also celebrates Bike to Work Day and is in the last third of its popular free bus rides program, which caused a surge in public transportation ridership in June and July.

The city asks riders to enter the river at Memorial Park on 29th Street and to exit at Schneider Park’s Ninth Street river takeout to ensure the safety of other river riders.

The city is offering guided raft rides for free for the occasion. Residents can book a seat by emailing GetAroundDurango@durangogov.org or by calling 970-375-4957, the release said. Durango Transit will provide riders free transportation from Schneider Park back to Memorial Park.

Residents are encouraged to use life jackets or other personal flotation devices and helmets while riding the Animas River. If one doesn’t own any of items, it’s recommended they rent those items from one of the area river sports companies, the release said.

The city also asks residents to clean up after themselves and avoid littering. Environmental experts will participate in the event to educate residents about water quality, according to the city.

cburney@durangoherald.com