Bike To Work Week Kicks Off in Hoboken

A fervent biker herself, mayor Dawn Zimmer kicked off national bike to work week Monday morning, in front of the PATH station in Hoboken. 

The mayor also unveiled a new bike rack, which fits about five bikes, in front of the PATH station. The rack was provided by the Hudson Transportation Management Association. Jay DiDomenico, Director of the Hudson TMA, said he didn't want to say how much the rack costs. 

Director of Transportation and Parking Ian Sacs said that the City will be adding 250 more spots to park bikes, all over the city. Annually, he said, $9,000  in the budget is dedicated to parking. Adding more parking spots for bikes, Sacs said, is part of the "overall parking program," with the goal to reduce the amount of cars in Hoboken (and thus create more parking spaces). 

Two representatives from the Hudson TMA were also there, manning a table with free goodies such as helmets and reflectors, to promote safe biking.  

Zimmer said she would like to see more community bike rides in Hoboken. But, she said, in Hoboken biking is actually the best way to get around. 

"It's a convenient way to get to work," said Zimmer. "It takes off stress." The mayor walks to work most days, but participated in New York City's five borough bike tour recently, she said. 

The Hudson TMA will be in Jersey City and other parts of Hudson County all week to promote the national bike to work week. 

"It's all about going green and saving money for the commuter," said Josefina Palacios from the Hudson TMA. "Bicycling is not just for recreation."