Even with the unusually warm, dry weather we've been experiencing this winter -- and in fact, even in the warmer months -- cycling is not always easy. Pedal-powered transportation faces roads built with cars in mind, and most offices and businesses are set up to accommodate those arriving by car or transit (lacking bike racks, never mind showers and changerooms).
Even still, a
survey announced January 18 by the City of Toronto showed cycling growing in Toronto, with 54 per cent of residents older than age 15 riding bikes, and 16 per cent saying they use their bikes to commute to work or school.
As the population grows, businesses adapt, and the
Bicycle Friendly Business Awards aim to recognize companies that come up with innovative ways to make two-wheeled travel more attractive.
At the awards ceremony held January 19 at the Gladstone Hotel, the big winner was
Bike Train, an initiative that won both Best Overall and Best Small Business. The company, founded by Toronto resident Justin Lafontaine and launched initially in 2007, puts bike racks on passenger rail trains to allow for easier bicycle tourism.
The full list of winners announced at the ceremony:
Best Bike Parking Award: Mountain Equipment Co-opBicycle-Friendliest Suburban Business Award: Smart Commute North Toronto VaughanBicycle Commute Award: Ontario College of Art & DesignBest Small Business Award: Bike Train InitiativeBest Large Business Award: Sunnybrook Health Sciences CenterBest Skills Development Award: Charlie's FreeWheels
Best Overall Award: Bike Train InitiativeWriter: Edward Keenan
Source: Steve Johnston, Sr. Communications Coordinator, City of Toronto