September 21, 2009 - 1:36am
Vancouver Island University is helping encourage alternative forms of transportation during ALTernative TRAnsportation Week (ALTRA) September 21 - 24.
ALTRA is a new event, organized by motivated 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 or 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.
“We want to encourage alternative forms of transportation at VIU and help students, staff and faculty embrace a healthier lifestyle,” said Keri Bowering, an active member of Solutions and participant in ALTRA Week. “But we hope they embrace that lifestyle and those actions in their everyday lives as well. ALTRA is a chance for everyone to challenge themselves and participate in establishing a fun, healthy, sustainable way of commuting, directly reducing their personal carbon impact.”
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 7-8am 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 4:30pm, at Fourth and Wakesiah. There will be prizes including bus passes, as well as 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 solutions.viu.ca or email viusolutionsnetwork@gmail.com for more information
Tags: In the Community
