U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu Biked to Freedom Plaza to Celebrate Bike to Work Day 2009

Thousands of bicyclists turned out to celebrate Bike to Work Day 2009 at locations in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia.  Over 8,000 people signed up to participate in advance of the event, which set a new record for registrations.

The annual event, sponsored jointly by Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association, promotes bicycling as a healthy, low-cost and environmentally-friendly alternative to drive-alone commuting. 

“Thank you for bicycling to work today for your health and for the environment,” D.C. Councilmember At-Large and COG President Phil Mendelson told participants assembled at Freedom Plaza in downtown Washington D.C.  “And thank you for making a statement by bicycling to work and showing that there are alternatives to driving.”

Several speakers at Freedom Plaza noted the participation of U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu in this year’s Bike to Work Day celebration calling it a another positive sign that the new Obama Administration supports bicycling as an important means of transportation. 

Including Freedom Plaza, bicyclists gathered at a total of 26 “pit stops” featuring entertainment, food, drinks, and raffles.  The raffle prizes included commuter bags, bike locks, bicycles, and other bike-related gadgets and accessories.  Experienced WABA volunteers helped lead "commuter convoys" from across the area to Freedom Plaza and other pit stop destinations. Convoy leaders assisted participants with safe riding and equipment tips as well as showing riders the best route to their destination.

Participants gather at Freedom Plaza--one of 26 regional pit stops.

For more information about WABA, visit www.waba.org. To learn more about Commuter Connections, visit www.commuterconnections.org.