METRO Helps Connect Region with New Intermodal Options at Kingsland P&R
METRO Cycling Club members demonstrated it’s now easier for commuters to enjoy bikes while taking advantage of the region’s great public transit system. This latest project brought METRO Board Chairman Gilbert Garcia, board members Linda Castaneda, Alan Watson, and former board member Jimmy Stewart along with METRO President and CEO George Greanias to west Houston to help Harris County Commissioner Steve Radack dedicate the new Jackie Freeman Hike and Bike Bridge. Freeman, who recently left the METRO board, was applauded for his role in facilitating bike access to METRO’s Kingsland Park & Ride.
Cyclists on County Hike and Bike trails rely on amenities like this for multi-modal commutes. Bike boarding has increased dramatically – 15,493 recorded last month – up 50 percent from August of 2011. Nearly 434,000 bikes have been boarded on buses since METRO launched its program in 2007. Nearly all METRO buses are equipped with bike racks or storage areas and bikes are allowed on trains during off peak hours.
Our partners at the Houston-Galveston Area Council have developed resources that are helpful and free. Following are some things you can do to keep yourself moving safely through traffic:
· Always wear a helmet while biking
· Observe all rules of the road (your bike is a vehicle)
· Get a biking buddy - an experienced bike commuter is best
· Check that your bike is in good working order
· Be sure you are visible. Headlights are required at night and a red reflector should be mounted in back
· Test and survey your routes
· Keep a change of clothes at your destination
· Know where to lock your bike and where to change clothes at work
The League of American Bicyclists, is a nonprofit group promoting commuting by bike. The league says cycling saves money, improves health, and helps the environment.
About METRO
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) is the region’s largest public transit provider, offering safe, reliable and affordable transportation services about 370,000 times per day. Besides operating more than 1,200 buses, METRO is currently expanding its 7.5-mile light-rail line (Red Line), with three new lines under construction. METRO’s services also include: Star Vanpool, METROLift, HOV lanes, HOT lanes, Bikes-on-Buses/Trains program, Park & Ride and road improvement projects.