Why smart commute?

Biking or walking to work provides both personal and community benefits. The benefits of green commuting include improved health, economic savings, increased mobility and decreased traffic congestion.

Personal Benefits - Green commuting can improve your health, save money and increase personal mobility.
- Improved Health - Bicycling and walking are great ways to squeeze regular exercise into a hectic schedule. Travel time can be used to stay in shape instead of sitting frustrated in traffic.
- Economics - Between gasoline, insurance and maintenance, it costs a lot to have a car. Try bicycling, riding the bus, walking or ride-sharing to save some money.
- Mobility - Even the most powerful sport utility vehicle crawls in congested traffic. Parking a car can be a time consuming (and sometimes expensive) hassle, but you can bike quickly and park close to your destination.

Community Benefits - Green commuting provides many community benefits (by reducing traffic) and it is good for the environment.

I Would Bike or Walk To Work But...

Often misconceptions about biking or walking dissuade people from trying a green commute. The following information addresses some of the common "myths" about biking (or walking) to work.

It takes too long......Myth
- Fact - Cycling in urban areas generally takes less time than driving and parking for trips of three miles or less. Some people utilize time spent walking to and from work as a form of relaxation.

I can't ride because of the weather......Myth
- Fact - New cyclists usually start in fair weather. Experienced cyclists find that rain and cold weather can be addressed with proper clothing. Smart Commute Week in Traverse City is held in June to take advantage of wonderful summer weather.

Traffic makes it unsafe to walk or bike.....Myth
- Fact - If you obey traffic laws and ride visibly and predictably, you are at no greater risk cycling than driving a car. By following pedestrian rules and utilizing pedestrian crosswalks, your walk to work can be safe and carefree.

There is no place to park my bike.....Myth
- Fact - You can always find somewhere to park your bike, normally very close to your destination. Traverse City has many designated bike parking areas throughout downtown. At work, you may be able to ask your employer to provide covered, secure parking or bring your bike inside.

I'm too out of shape to walk or bike to work....Myth
- Fact - This is one of the reasons to bike or walk to work. Walking is an excellent way of getting exercise, and can be very practical for short trips. Cycling is less strenuous than walking and you will gain fitness as you ride regularly.

I can't bike, my job requires professional attire....Myth
- Fact - Some bike commuters ride in dress clothes, some ride in casual attire and change at work.

I can't bike or walk, there's no shower at work, what if I'm sweaty.....Myth
- Fact - Most bike commuters don't need a shower at work. Green commuting by bike (or walking) is generally not a sweaty affair.

So give it a try, there are so many benefits and reasons to try the smart commute!

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