Week to promote bicycle use in A2

Ann Arbor, it's time to ride. This week, Ann Arbor citizens will exchange steering wheels for handle bars as they take part in "Bike to Work Week."

Yesterday marked the start of the event, which coordinators said they hope will promote cycling in Ann Arbor.

Designed by the Ann Arbor Department of Parks and Recreation and local companies, Bike to Work Week, now in its ninth year, takes place in the spring to coincide with National Bike Week.

Bike Program Assistant Angela Fletcher said the event is held for environmental and health reasons, as well as to bolster bikers' interest.

"We hope it brings out more cyclists, and shows that we support and encourage them," she said of the program.

Several local bike shops will hold special discounts on bike related merchandise during the week. Ann Arbor Cyclery plans to offer a 20 percent discount on clothing and bike helmets.

Jim Grove, owner of Ann Arbor Cyclery, said although many bikers in the Ann Arbor area are students, the average age of bikers has been increasing.

"Biking may be especially popular because of congestion and parking difficulties in the area," he said.

As a reward for their efforts, some local coffee shops are offering bikers discounts on coffee and treats. Zingerman's Next Door is a check-point for the bikers from 7 a.m.-9 a.m. throughout the week.

If cyclists bring in their helmets, they are entitled to a discount on any single espresso, latte, or cappuccino. Marketing coordinator Lynn Fiorentino said Zingerman's chose to participate because of the positive benefits in biking.

"It's a good way for people to get exercise, and it's good for the environment," she said.

Espresso Royale Cafe is also participating in Bike to Work Week. The S. State and S. Main street branches will have special booths set up for bikers from 7 a.m.-9 a.m. tomorrow and Wednesday morning.

For those who live too far away from work to commute the entire distance, the Ann Arbor Parks Department encourages bikers to take part in the Park N Bike program. Participants can drive to an area park, and then bike the rest of the way to work. Some designated Park N Bike sites include Fuller, West and Gallup parks.

Another option available to those who are hesitant in participating for the entire week is to bike to work tomorrow, which is National Bike to Work Day.

Engineering sophomore Jenni Ulrey said she has not considered biking to her job, but may this week.

"I usually take the bus, but I'd be willing to bike for one day, if the weather was nice."

05-17-99