Great to see the following article in the Nanaimo News Bulletin!
Vancouver Island University is helping encourage alternative forms of transportation during ALTernative TRAnsportation Week (ALTRA) Sept. 21-24. The event is organized by VIU students who share the belief that cycling, busing and walking is a critical component of a healthy transportation system and promotes a healthier lifestyle and community.
“We want to educate and encourage commuters at VIU about the benefits of alternative transportation,” said Rebecca Martin, a bike enthusiast and organizer of the event. “Taking the bus, riding your bike or walking to work is a positive choice for so many reasons. Not only is it better for the environment, it can help you save money, reduce stress and create a healthier lifestyle for yourself and for your community.”
As a campus that serves 19,000 students, staff, and faculty, VIU has a significant environmental impact due to its commuter demographic. The university wants to reduce its impact and become a greener campus, as well as promote the idea that sustainability starts with the individual. Activities during the week-long event will include a bike wash/tune-up station, interactive games, the ALTRA parade, and Bikers Breakfasts (Tuesday to Thursday from 7-8 a.m. in front of the Students’ Union and free to all ALTRA commuters or by donation). Participants can also ride their bikes and take part in Critical Mass to increase drivers’ awareness of bikes on the road and ride as a group to the Bowen Park Farmers’ Market, meeting every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m., at Fourth Street and Wakesiah Avenue.
There will be prizes including bus passes and bike and running paraphernalia. The week will conclude with a “bike-in” movie – Veer – an inspiring film of twists and turns of urban bike culture.
Details about the event are available online at www.solutions.viu.ca or e-mail viusolutionsnetwork@gmail.com for more information.
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