Written by Andrew Sheldon, Active Transportation Planner III, Fairfax County Department of Transportation
With over 500 miles of trails, over 200 miles of bike lanes, and thousands of miles of sidewalks, there’s something for everyone—no matter your age or ability.
Now that it's Bike Month, it is time to celebrate! The longer days and warmer weather make it the perfect season to try a more sustainable, healthy way to get around. One of my favorite events this month is Bike to Work Day, happening on Thursday, May 15.
Whether you're a seasoned bike commuter or just curious to see what it's all about, Bike to Work Day is your chance to join a movement that’s bigger than just getting from point A to B. Across the county, you’ll find pit stops filled with free refreshments, giveaways, bike checks, and more—plus the kind of community energy that makes you want to come back next year.
Sign up for Bike to Work Day and check out all the pit stops happening right here in Fairfax County.
Even if you're working from home or can’t bike your full commute, I encourage you to take a ride anyway — swing by a pit stop and celebrate the day with us. Every ride counts!
If you’re combining your commute with public transit, don’t forget about Capital Bikeshare. These stations can help with your first or last mile, making your trip even smoother. 🚲
Whether you’re biking, walking, or scooting, safety is everything. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
✅ Be visible – Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in low light
✅ Follow the rules of the road – Bikes must stop at stop signs too!
✅ Stay alert – Keep your eyes up and your phone down
✅ Use lights – A white front light and red rear light are essential at night
Stay in the Know with Our Newsletter
Want to stay updated on new trails, local events, safety tips, and cool things happening in your community? Sign up for our Active Transportation Newsletter—a one-stop shop for all things biking, walking, and rolling in Fairfax County.
Become a Bike & Pedestrian Ambassador
We’re looking for enthusiastic folks who want to make a difference in their neighborhoods. Our Bike & Pedestrian Ambassador Program is a great way to get involved—by helping at events, promoting safe transportation practices, and sharing your passion with others.
We're especially looking for volunteers to support Bike to Work Day this year, so if you’re interested, we’d love to have you on board!
Andrew Sheldon is a Transportation Planner III with the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT). Prior to this role, he served as the Safe Routes to School Specialist for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), where he worked to make walking and biking to school safer and more accessible for students. Andrew is passionate about helping people of all ages embrace active transportation and incorporate it into their daily lives whenever it’s safe and practical to do so.
Fun Fact: Andrew often commutes to work by bike from Centreville to Fairfax—putting active transportation into action every day! 📸 Pictured: Andrew during a Fourth of July family bike ride—proof that biking is not just work, it's fun too!