 Commuting by bike can be challenging in many areas of Tucson, but riding a bike to Raytheon Missile Systems at the airport site on Herman¹s Road can be downright scary. Randy Rogers-Gardner, Manager of the Energy Conservation Program within Environmental, Health, Safety at Raytheon, overcame his fears and now commutes 35 miles to and from work. Although the distance, time and hazards of bike commuting were somewhat daunting for Randy in the beginning, he was encouraged by co-workers and the potential benefits and savings. Now three years later, 18 pounds lighter, and hundreds of dollars and pounds of pollution saved, Randy is very comfortable commuting by bike and looks forward to his ride to and from the office. Randy¹s bike commute gives him time to unwind and relax from a hectic work day, reflect on his life and enjoy the outdoors with the unique aromas of the season.
For those interested in commuting by bike but who are fearful and intimidated by the task, Randy suggests that you start out with short distance rides to become comfortable with traffic and tricky intersections. Riding with a more experienced bike buddy is also a good way to get started and learn the easier routes or take one of the training classes offered by Pima County and the City of Tucson, http://www.bikeped.pima.gov/allsafetyclasses.html. |