Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs celebrates Bike to Work Week this week. The Steamboat Pilot & Today will profile a local bike commuter each day of the week, courtesy of Emmanuelle Vital, the city's Bike Friendly Community coordinator.

Gigi Walker

Occupation: Owner of Spruce Up Beauty Salon

1: Why do you commute to work?

"It is fun, it is convenient, and you never have to worry about parking. You get the endorphins going early in the day, and it helps with your workday. For me, it is the same amount of time as driving."

2: How do you prepare for your bike commute?

"Not much. I get to the shop and fix my hair for the day."

3: What route(s) do you choose?

"The route depends on what I am doing for the day. I make a plan to only have to cross Lincoln Avenue twice in my travels. If I am doing errands on the east side of town, I cross Lincoln and get on the bike path and do all the errands. Then I ride down the bike path, cross over Lincoln again and finish my errand list. If I go to the grocery store, I ride into the Sanctuary and down to the store. I have panniers on the bike so I can hold just about anything."

4: Does you employer promote commuting?

"Yes, yes, yes!"

5: Do you have any tips to make bike commuting a good experience?

- "I make a list of all the errands I have to do and think about them logistically. That way, I don't forget anything and am more efficient in my riding. I carry a cell phone and I have a simple maintenance tool for the bike.

- "It is so wonderful to be out in the fresh air all year long. It helps to clear the cobwebs out of the brain.

- But always wear a helmet. Just like driving, most accidents occur close to home. Helmets are a must to make the experience the most fun."