The League of American Bicyclists recently recognized the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) with a silver level Bicycle-Friendly Business designation. The recognition was awarded after an extensive review of FCDOT’s facilities and programs to support its two-wheeled commuters, along with how the agency works to encourage bicycling in the community. The award duration lasts four years through 2028.
FCDOT is located near the Fairfax County Government Center, Fair Oaks Mall and Fairfax Town Center at 4050 Legato Road in Fairfax. The property is accessible by bike via long-distance multi-use trails and bike lanes. The building offers many on-site amenities for bicycle commuters including:
- indoor garage and outdoor uncovered bike racks
- ability to keep bikes in workplaces, and permission to transport bikes inside common areas
- charging facilities for electric assist bicycles
- free access to showers and towel service
- secure bike parking spaces in an access-controlled bike room at no charge
- two loaner bicycles and accessories (helmets, lights and locks) available for staff use
- maintenance supplies on site such as tools, air pump and tubes
- complimentary Capital Bikeshare membership to employees
Finally, if bicycle commuters need an emergency ride home, they are encouraged to sign up for the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Commuter Connections Guaranteed Ride Home program.
FCDOT joins this year’s list with 1,480 Bicycle-Friendly Businesses across the country, including other government agencies, Fortune 500 companies, museums, hospitality establishments, bike shops and other employers. It currently is the only Bicycle-Friendly Business in Fairfax County; Fairfax County is a bronze level Bicycle-Friendly Community and George Mason University is a silver level Bicycle-Friendly University.
The benefits of bicycling include reduced traffic, improved health and wellness, and helping the environment. The Bicycle-Friendly Business designation can also attract workers interested in progressive commuting options, and encourage customers to ride to their locations.
“There are so many employers who have worked to make alternate modes of commuting possible for their employees,” said Gregg Steverson, acting director of the Fairfax County Department of Transportation. “The Bicycle-Friendly Business designation helps our community become more bike-friendly for everyone, and our goal is to get more companies on the list.”
The Bicycle-Friendly Business application can be found online at https://bicyclefriendly.secure-platform.com/a/organizations/main/home.
FCDOT will encourage commuting by bicycle on Bike to Work Day, Friday, May 17, 2024. Registration is now open at https://www.biketoworkmetrodc.org/.
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