COUNTY NEWS RELEASE

Los Alamos County Public Works Department, the Transportation Board, and Community Services Department invite the community to celebrate “Bike to Work” events on Thursday, May 16.

Bicyclists are invited to stop by the Energizer Station from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at the northwest corner of Diamond and Canyon for refreshments, snacks, and bike related swag.

The public is invited to Fuller Lodge Thursday evening from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. for a presentation on the Urban Trail Construction, future alignment and trail phase opening dates. There will be a special Urban Trail site visit and tour, all are welcome to bike or walk the site visit. There will also be a Break-Out Presentation on bicycle chain maintenance.

Motorists are alerted that an increase in bicyclists are expected on Bike to Work Day with Cycle Los Alamos organizing a group commute to work. More information can be found on the Cycle Los Alamos Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/cyclelosalamos
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/V9ZY9Qkdts7V9uUL/?mibextid=oFDknk

Please remember the County’s “5 foot to Pass” ordinance pertaining to bikes. The ordinance states, “when approaching or passing any person riding on a bicycle, the operator of a motor vehicle shall proceed with caution and shall pass such bicycle rider at a reasonable speed and maintain a safe distance, no less than five feet, from the operator of the bicycle.”

According to the League of American Bicyclists, 40 percent of all trips in the U.S. areless than two miles, making bicycling a feasible and fun way to get around. The County urges everyone to bike to work or try cycling for fun, fitness, or transportation.

Public Works staff offer the following tips to assist community members to better enjoy biking to work:

 Have your bike checked over by your local bike shop. 
 Always wear a helmet to protect your head in the event of a crash. 
 Ride in the right-most lane that goes in the direction that you are traveling. 
 Obey all stop signs, traffic lights and lane markings. 
 Look before you change lanes or signal a turn; indicate your intention, then act.
 Always be visible and predictable and wear bright clothing.

Individuals with questions or comments about the May 16 events can call the Public Works Department at 505-662-8150 or send an email to lacpw@lacnm.us.