Bikes rule at local events Bikes rule at local events (May 19, 2004)

Instead of shoving the gas pedal to the metal, many residents will pay tribute to a calmer form of transportation on Thursday, May 20, by taking part in the national Bike to Work Day. Then, that night, a community workshop will review a proposed bike plan for Menlo Park.

During the annual Bike to Work Day, championing bicycling as a commute alternative, 150 "energizer stations" will be set up around the Bay Area to support bikers with free refreshments and bonuses such as canvas bike bags, sunscreen and energy bars, said Debbie Helming, transportation management coordinator for the city of Menlo Park.

Three stations will be set up in Menlo Park from 7 to 9 a.m., at the San Mateo Drive bike bridge, the Willow Place bike bridge and the Caltrain station, Ms. Helming said.

Organizers of Bike to Work include cities and counties, local bicycle groups and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. For more information, go to www.511.org.

Bike workshop

Fittingly, May 20 is also the date of a community workshop to discuss a draft bicycle plan for Menlo Park. The plan includes a proposed network of new bike paths and lanes, along with amenities for bikers such as signs and better bike parking.

The workshop, which runs from 7 to 9 p.m., will include a presentation on the plan and an opportunity to ask questions and comment on bike issues in the city. It will be held in the City Council chambers at 801 Laurel St.

For more information, call 330-6775 or go to www.menlopark.org/departments/trn/bike_project.html.

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