Reactions to Durango’s first ever Float to Work Day, taking place on Friday from 7–9 a.m., have been positive, ours among them.
Individuals who reside outside of Durango, whether as close in as New Mexico or further afield in Texas, have expressed a little envy, counting this new event among the number of things that make Durango such a great town and the 2 millionth reason to live and work here.
Staff of the city’s Multimodal Transportation Program, 4 Corners River Sports, Durango Coffee Company, 81301 Coffee House and Roasters and Mild to Wild Rafting deserves credit for pulling it off. Though one reader loved the idea but generally frowned upon “following Boulder’s lead,” we don’t mind harnessing a good idea and, in typical Durango-style, making it our own.
We are looking forward to it. Boulder’s event, which celebrated its 10th year in July, relies exclusively on inner tubes. Durango’s event is a bit more equal-opportunity. Rafts, kayaks, duckies, paddleboards and “other allowable floating crafts” (presumably inner tubes, but maybe not inflatable couches or pool floats) are welcome.
The multimodal program focuses on moving people via public transit, walking, biking, and now, in the interest of encouraging alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle use, floating.
Accordingly, the event – which starts at Memorial Park at 29th Street and concludes at Schneider Park at 9th Street – emphasizes clean commuting, transportation alternatives, public safety and environmental health.
San Juan Basin Public Health, Mountain Studies Institute and San Juan Citizens Alliance will be on hand to provide information about ways the community can participate in protecting water quality.
Don’t forget that tonight is the first community meeting of the Citizen Superfund Workgroup from 6-8 p.m. at the La Plata County Commissioners board room, 1101 East 2nd Ave. This is a great time to get informed and provide input into the cleanup of the upper Animas River.
Floating to work makes it a little harder to plan one’s day and evening, but a free Durango Transit shuttle is available for the return trip (though only deflated boats – no paddles – and people can get on board). It should be fun and worth the effort. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and helmets are strongly encouraged, as are closed-toed shoes, costumes and your own coffee mug. A free breakfast will be provided.
Don’t have a boat? Don’t despair. Mild to Wild is providing low-cost trips to those who pre-register online and 4 Corners River Sports has free and discounted rentals on gear. More information is available at getarounddurango.com.
See you on the river!
