3rd Annual Bike to Work Launch Event – Part 2
May 25th, 2010 | By Jeff Stephens | Category: News
CEO Cycling Challenge and The Columbus Foundation Invest in "2 by 2012"
After we celebrated the investment in bike infrastructure at the OSU Gateway with Mayor Coleman and other dignitaries, our band of 250+ bicycle commuters rolled down a damp High Street to the Statehouse for the 3rd annual Consider Biking Launch event. We had received commitments from over 75+ local CEOs to ride with us and show support of the business community for our work in bicycle advocacy. Despite the dreary conditions, the majority of the business leaders joined us on the ride…many on bicycles for the first time in many, many years. The sense of fun & joy was contagious and outwardly apparent!
The primary message at the Statehouse event was the launch of Consider Biking’s "2 by 2012" campaign and the significant investment made by the Columbus Foundation in our organization. Our bold “2 by 2012” Mode Shift program will work within Columbus’ major workplaces to encourage and incentivize active transportation. With the support of our corporate and civic leadership, we will demonstrate that there is a direct relationship between increased levels of active transportation and/or bicycling (in any form) and the economic competitiveness of our businesses and community. This effort in Columbus is innovative and transformative; it is drawing attention from transportation leaders across America. 
Having many CEOs and significant business leaders stand in solidarity with us on this morning, sent a loud message. Or business community understands that promoting bicycling is good for their bottom lines. Yes….it enhances employee health, environmental stewardship, community livability, etc. But, the #1 reason a business leader will help promote our cause…is if it is a good business decision. So…our business leaders have made the connection!
Consider Biking Board member, Doug Morgan also challenged the business community to match the $295,000 commitment from The Columbus Foundation. He announced two $15,000 commitments from members of our Cycling Corporate Caucus – the law firms of Hahn, Loeser & Parks LLC and Manley Deas & Kochalski, LLC. Thanks to everyone for your investment in Consider Biking and your passion for the pedaling revolution!
