Roll into Spring, Safely and Sustainably
Published on: Thursday, April 4, 2024 News

Roll into Spring, Safely and Sustainably

by Kaysi-Ann Webley, Special Projects Coordinator

As the vibrant colors of spring blossom around us, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the joys of walking and cycling to school or work and for leisure. Spring is an ideal season for embracing sustainable and active commuting options. Let’s review the importance of seasonal safety checks and how we can collectively contribute to a greener future during Earth Month.

1. Embrace the Spring Advantage: Spring brings longer days, milder temperatures, and refreshing breezes that beckon us outdoors. It’s an opportune time to encourage our students and remind ourselves to walk or cycle to school or work, reaping the benefi ts of increased physical activity and getting a positive start to the day.

2. Seasonal Safety Checks for Safer Routes: Just as we prepare our homes for the changing seasons, it’s essential to conduct safety checks for bicycles and pedestrian pathways. Ensure that bikes are in good condition by inspecting the ABC’s: Air in tires is sufficient; Brakes are not worn; Chains and cranks are not loose, rusted, or gunked up. In addition, make sure that your bike has functioning lights and bells. Pedestrians should be sure to use sidewalks, pathways, and crosswalks. Please report issues to 311 or online using MY-TKPK so that issues can be addressed to create and maintain safer routes throughout our city.

3. Navigating Changing Weather Conditions: As temperatures fluctuate during spring, it’s crucial to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Dress in layers, wear refl ective gear, and carry rain gear on cloudy days. Remember to be mindful of wet surfaces, especially after rain, and to always follow traffi c rules. By instilling and adopting good habits, we will be ready to navigate safely through any weather.

4. Earth Day and Eco-Friendly Commuting: As Earth Day approaches on April 22, let’s refl ect on the environmental impact of our daily choices. Walking and cycling to school and work contrib-ute signifi cantly to reducing our carbon footprint. These sustainable modes of transportation not only improve air quality but also foster a sense of envi-ronmental responsibility among our youth. This Earth Day, let’s commit to making a positive impact by embracing eco-friendly commuting initiatives.

5. Call to Action: Implementing Eco-Friendly Commuting: We urge resi-dents, schools, and businesses to come together to support eco-friendly commuting initiatives. Consider organizing walking or cycling events, establishing bike-sharing programs, or promoting carpooling among families. By collectively adopting these initiatives, we can create a culture of sustainability that benefits our environment and enhances the well-being of our community.

6. Get Ready for Bike Month in May: May is Bike Month! Check the City web-page for more bike information. Below are some of the programs we have planned.

  • Bike to School Day is May 8. Please contact your school to get more in-formation.
  •  Adult Learn-to-Ride Bike Class is May 11th at the Takoma Junc-tion parking lot. Class registration is sold out but we encourage you to sign-up for the waitlist to help us determine the need for future classes.
  • Bike to Work Day is May 17. We have three stops this year: Takoma/Langley Crossroads, Downtown/Old Takoma, and Sligo Creek Trail on New Hampshire Avenue. For more information and to register, visit biketoworkmetrodc.com/
  • Free pop-up bike repairs. More in-formation on dates and locations will be available at waba.org/learn-toride/.
  • Check out the 2019 Takoma Park Bike Map to plan your route. It is available for free from public buildings and bike shops in the city or online here.

Takoma Park Bikeways Projects
We want YOUR feedback on new bike-way projects! The City of Takoma Park is actively working on the designs for multiple bikeway projects, including the New Ave Bikeway on New Hampshire Avenue, an upgrade to the Metropolitan Branch Trail, and a redesign of Maple Avenue. Follow along with each project on the City’s website where you can learn about public events and opportunities to participate in the planning process! Visit bit.ly/TKPK-Bikeways

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and by embracing sustainable commuting options, we sow the seeds for a healthier, happier, and greener future. Let’s roll into spring.

This article appeared in the April Edition of the Takoma Park Newsletter. Check out this article and more on the City webpage.