Base personnel encouraged to bike to work next week

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Hanscom Air Force Base, along with MIT Lincoln Laboratory, will partner with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to celebrate Bay State Bike Week, May 14 through 20.

"This year we are participating in the annual Bay State Bike Week," said Greg Cravedi, from Hanscom's Environmental Management office. "All bicycle riders on Hanscom -- commuters and recreational -- are encouraged to log their miles with the Mass Commuter Challenge as part of the 'Hanscom AFB Workplace Team.'"

To log the miles, participants can visit http://masscommuterchallenge.org/register/ and fill in the online form.

Lincoln Lab, recognized as a "Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Business," is participating in the event for the third straight year.

"Recognizing the connection between good health and fitness, our director's office has been very supportive of our efforts," said Terry Gleason, Lincoln Lab bicycle committee member. "On Thursday, May 19, beginning at noon at the Lincoln Lab flag pole circle, there will be an approximate one hour base bike tour for MIT and base employees."

Officials from both the base and lab recognize that bicycle riding to work or for recreation not only offers many health benefits, but also environmental benefits.

"Bicycle riding is one of the best ways to enjoy commuting or exercise," said Mr. Cravedi. "Bicycles don't pollute, are inexpensive to operate and are fun to use."

Also on May 19, Hanscom bicycle riders are encouraged to commute to work on their bike for Bike to Work Day. The Environmental Management office will be offering free incentives to bicyclists at the Base Exchange and Commissary areas from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. In case of inclement weather, Bike to Work Day will be held May 20.

The Bay State Bike Week event is open to everyone who bicycles during the week, not just those who bike commute on May 19.

For more information on bike week events offered throughout the state, visit http://massbike.org/bsbw/.