Most of us could use more exercise, glued as we are to our televisions and hunkered down in our bucket seats. And with monthly gasoline bills beginning to rival mortgage payments, we could use a cheaper mode of transport.
How about biking?
Many of us live too far away from work to consider it. But on Thursday, the city approved its first Master Bicycle Plan in more than 20 years ? making it easier for those who can.
The short-term goal is to connect 150 miles of city streets, bike lanes and trails.
The $3.5 million allocated to the plan over the next three years will be used to replace metal grating, build paths and pay for bike racks outside city buildings and major employers.
Right now, 0.33 percent of Baltimore residents use their bikes to commute to work, well below places like Madison, Wis., and Seattle. Changing our habits will take more than personal motivation.
Some employers already subsidize employee transportation. Why don?t downtown employers help employees kick the car habit by purchasing bike racks and seeking company discounts for bikes?
Maybe then Charm City would also deserve Men?s Fitness? title of “Fittest City.”
