Virtual Route Scouts Update: Safe Routes to Work, to School, and to Run Errands

This spring, SVBC launched the Virtual Bike Route Scouts program to answer a common question – “How can I get there on my bike?” Since April, that question has been answered by Route Scout volunteers to more than 300 people, finding ways for people to use their bikes to get to work, school, and to run errands.Route Scout volunteers provide not only turn-by-turn directions, but also share helpful tips like, “Beware of the transition from the street to the sidewalk on the east side of the Downing Avenue bridge - it's not particularly smooth - the curb is maybe an inch or two above the pavement.” (thanks, Lloyd!).  It’s this type of personal advice that can help people feel confident when taking that first turn of the pedal on a new path.  One requester noted, “The Route Scout who sent me the route was available for follow-up questions and that was so helpful.”Bike To Work Day prompted a large number of requests, and the Route Scouts worked extra hard to answer as many inquiries as possible (look for a list of routes to the most popular destinations, coming soon!). SVBC would like to extend special thanks to some team members who worked super-duper, extra hard to churn out these routes – Amy Hewett, Betsy Megas, Kristal Caidoy, Chad Cataylo, Robert Cronin, and John.  They, and all of the Route Scouts, are making a positive impact on our communities by getting people to rethink their choice of transportation and give biking a try.Would you like to get “there” from “here” by bike, but aren’t sure how to go about finding a route?  Route Scout volunteers draw on their personal biking experience in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties to create routes tailored to your needs.  If you don’t want to ride a particular road, just let them know and your Route Scout will do their best to avoid it.  Or, maybe you want to take the bus, light rail, or train for part of your route – they can help with that, too!Please check out our programs page here for information about the Route Scouts. It includes the link for the route request form, which takes only a few minutes to fill out.We’re also looking for people who’d like to join the Route Scouts team.  By joining, you can use your knowledge of your neighborhood, town or city to give others a safe, enjoyable bike route. If you’re interested, we’d love to have your help!  Please contact Ann Jasper at ann@bikesiliconvalley.org for more information.