Washington, D.C. – Over 14,500 commuters participated in today’s Bike to Work Day, the largest number since the first regional Bike to Work Day was held in the Washington metropolitan region in 2000. Attendance at the free event, coordinated by Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) grew by 15 percent this year and included cyclists from the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia promoting bicycling as a green commute option.

“To illustrate how Bike to Work Day has grown, ten years ago there were 15 pit stops and 3,200 bicyclists. This year over 14,500 bicyclists participated at over 70 pit stops” said Chuck Bean, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. “This event has increased the profile of bicycling as a sustainable, low-cost, healthy commuting option thanks to the support and dedication of participants, sponsors, volunteers, officials, and dignitaries.”

Commuter Connections provides information on alternative commute programs to encourage ridesharing options and help employers establish commuter benefit and incentives, including telework for their employees.

“The dramatic growth of the Bike to Work Day event is an indicator that area commuters view bicycling as a viable commute alternative that can enhance their daily routine,” said Nicholas Ramfos, Director of Commuter Connections. “Cycling is among the options that can improve the daily commute. Others include ridesharing, transit, and teleworking.”

Bike to Work Day celebrates National Bike Month in cities throughout the United States.