In addition to farm-fresh produce and locally sourced goods, Saturday’s Durango Farmers Market will mark the kickoff of Clean Commute Week – offering free tune-ups for bicycles and bike registration for all who turn out on two wheels. That is just the beginning of a week of events oriented toward transit and human-powered transportation in lieu of solo drives. These are small but important steps toward building a community that utilizes the many transit and transportation options available.
The city of Durango is teaming with more than 30 business sponsors to focus attention on the clean commuting options that exist in the city and surrounding region. San Juan Cycles will be providing the micro-tune-ups at Saturday’s farmers market, where bike owners can enjoy free minor adjustments to their ride.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, the Southwest Center for Independence will hold an open house at the Durango Transit Center, where attendees can learn about Americans with Disabilities Act transportation options in the area, including discounted transit passes, eligibility for the city’s Opportunity Bus service, and Road Runner Stage Lines routes. On Tuesday, a commuter fashion show from 5 to 7 p.m. at Carver Brewing Co. will offer runway time to dedicated clean commuters with a flair for couture.
Wednesday is Bike to Work Day, with free coffee and pastries for all who pedal their way to work. From 7 to 9 a.m., breakfast stations will be set up in the 900 block of Main Avenue and in front of Mercy Regional Medical Center. Commemorative T-shirts will be available for a fortunate few.
On Thursday, dedicated cyclists can test their mettle beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Rotary Park in the Pedal vs. Medal Errand Run, which pits drivers against cyclists in a five-errand speed competition. Everyone is a winner, though, because the day ends after a bike parade departs at 4:45 from Rotary Park to Ska Brewing Co., where a Love Your Commute party will await.
At each of these events, and throughout the week, there will be prize-winning opportunities for all who participate, plus much fun along the way. And for those not geared toward human-powered commuting, Durango Transit services will be free the whole week.
Clean Commute Week is an eclectic but effective reminder of the many and varied options that exist for traveling from point A to B. While a quick jaunt to the grocery store might seem more convenient in the family minivan, there are equally accessible – but also environmentally friendly and physically beneficial – alternatives. Give one or more a try during Clean Commute Week.
