Date:

May 6, 2009

For More Information Contact:

Diane Gonzolas, Citizen Information Center, 441-7831

Terry Genrich, Parks and Recreation, 441-7939

Mike Heyl, Health Department, 441-3889

Mayor Chris Beutler will kick off National Bike to Work Week Monday, May 11 by riding a bicycle to work and inviting others to join him. Bikers can meet the Mayor at 8 a.m. that morning at the "teachers" fountain on the southeast corner of 27th and Capitol Parkway. At 8:30 a.m., all residents are invited to join the bikers for a rally on the east steps of the County-City Building, 555 S. 10th St.

"An increasing number of Lincoln workers are using our outstanding trail system to save money, reduce pollution and get some exercise by biking to their jobs," Mayor Beutler said. "All of us have excuses for driving to work. Bike to Work week is a great opportunity to give biking a try and see if it fits into your lifestyle. And don't forget your helmets!"

In addition to maintaining and expanding the City's trails network, Beutler said the City has moved forward on other initiatives to promote biking, including downtown bike lanes and a new secure bike corral at CenterPark garage. A project is under way to install bike racks on StarTran buses.

Joining the Mayor on his ride to work will be City Parks and Recreation Director Lynn Johnson, Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Director Bruce Dart and County Commissioner Ray Stevens.

Bikers are invited to stop by the teachers fountain anytime between 7 and 9 a.m. Monday for energy bars, water and trail maps. The rally at the County-City Building will include a Mayoral proclamation, refreshments and bike safety checks. Bikers also will be entered into a drawing for tune-ups, water bottles, jerseys and other items. Information will be available at both sites for these upcoming events:

• Lincoln's first Biketacular event is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 30 at McPhee Elementary School. (Contact Jon Carlson, 441-7224)
• Sunday June 28 is the sixth annual "Trail Trek" celebration of Lincoln's trail system led by Great Plains Trails Network and the Lincoln Journal Star. (Contact Jim Carveth, 488-2101)

Businesses and individuals wanting to participate in Bike to Work Week can contact Terry Genrich, Parks and Recreation, at 441-7939 or Mike Heyl, Health Department, at 441-3889.