Bike to Work Day on May 16

On Friday, May 16, the local business owners of Downtown Fort Myers and the River District will promote and host Bike to Work Day.

According to World Watch Institute, a short, four-mile round trip by bicycle keeps about 15 pounds of pollutants out of the air.

"I know people are struggling due to the high gas prices, and this can help them, while it creates a better home for our children," said Mike Holm, owner of Schwinn Cyclery, who rides his bike to work once a week.

Jim and Cindy Wilson of The Downtown Health Club located at 2400 First Street will offer free lockers, showers and water to those biking to work. The club will allow participants to bring work clothes the day before, but must bring their own lock to secure their personal belongings. Protein shakes and smoothies are available for purchase at the Downtown Health Club which opens at 5:30 a.m. Jim Wilson can be reached at (239) 337-2323 or ftmgym@hotmail.com

Schwinn Cyclery located at 3630 Cleveland Ave. will offer parking for those who wish to meet with a buddy to bike a partial distance of their work commute. Holm will have an area set up at Patio 33 located at 33 Patio de Leon for bicycle safety checks, information, refreshments, and giveaways. Holm can be reached at (239) 939-2899 or mike@ schwinncyclery.com

Roger Mercado of Patio 33 will host an after party from 3-7p.m. complete with energy drinks as well as non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Mercado can be reached at (239) 822-6955 or roger@ patio33.com

Dan Moser will be available for bike routes, maps, and educational material and general questions and support. Moser can be reached at (239) 334-6417 or moserdeleon@juno.com.