ClevelandBikes is pleased to join with the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Administration in announcing its change in policy to allow bicycles on trains at all times during regular operation.  

RTA has agreed to change the black-out periods that barred access for those bringing their bike in their morning or evening hour commute.  This has been an issue raised frequently by ClevelandBikes and to ClevelandBikes, as the restrictions impede commuters, while doing nothing to advance for rider safety. RTA's own data shows that cyclists and the public can share the train, as well as share the road. Specifically, RTA indicates they will create a six month test period to evaluate bicycles on trains during morning commuter hours (restrictions still apply for special events train schedules). 

Expanding the cycling and public transportation partnership promotes both individual and public health.  The League of American Bicyclists, which sponsors nationwide "Bike to Work" days, found that, nationally, cyclists who rode to work on National Bike to Work Day:
*  Saved more than 56 tanker trucks full of gasoline from being burned;
*  Saved $5.7 million in driving costs;
*  Prevented 4,580 tons of carbon dioxide and 230 tons of carbon monoxide from entering the atmosphere;
*  Burned 410 million calories.

In hosting local "Bike to Work" days, ClevelandBikes seek to create opportunities for inidividuals in making personal choices.  Gas prices are important, but most commuters feel powerless to do anything about them:

 *  More than 70% of Americans feel that rising gas prices are very important or somewhat important in deciding where to live.

*  When listing factors involved in choosing a home, 40% look for a short commute, second only to a safe neighborhood.

Many people joining on "Bike to Work" day cited the high price of gas as their motivation. So what is the cost of a commute?  

*  Assuming a five days/week job, $3 gas, 26 mpg and 50 cents a mile for maintenance and no parking fees, a 50-mile roundtrip commute costs $646.15 a month, or $7,753.80 a year.  

*  But even a short 10-mile, roundtrip commute still costs $1,550.76 yearly.  If you're driving to work in a city, you're also probably paying for parking, which, at $5/day, totals about $1,250.

If you multiply these numbers to cover a year's worth of commuting, the benefits start to add up fast for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.  So take a stand (or a seat) and save several thousands of dollars each year (and get in shape along the way).

Be your own renewable energy.  $0/gallon, just add water.

ClevelandBikes -- When ClevelandBikes, Cleveland Benefits!
www.clevelandbikes.org