May Newsletter

Brought to you by the Portland Bureau of Transportation · May 2024

Portland Biking Guide

Did you know May is National Bike Month? Established in 1956, Bike Month was originally intended as a way to showcase the benefits of bicycling. Today it has become the perfect time to coordinate with fellow colleagues and introduce them to the idea of biking to work, promote Bike Buses for school children, or even plan an outing with family rides. In this month’s newsletter, we’ll be sharing resources to help get your wheels turning again, or maybe even for the first time.

Check out the Portland Bike Guide from Portland By Cycle and discover a new way to get around the city!

Bikes, Bikes, Bikes

Portland, Oregon is comprised of 94 unique neighborhoods in seven different quadrants and represented by four voting districts. Chances are, there is at least one local neighborhood bike shop where you can stop in and shop or do a little DIY (Do it Yourself) work on your bike. Some organized bike rides to bolster your friendships or take your cycling game to the next level.

Check out the local bike shops in your area to learn more how you can discover the beauty of cycling in your neighborhood and beyond!

Black Girls Do Bike 

Cycling is a great physical activity that can be a benefit your mind and body. Sadly, not everywhere can offer the same level of comfort, confidence, and security when you are a Black woman or member of any minority group. Ten years ago, Monica Garrison found her calling and created a cycling club for women like her and it echoed throughout the country. Today, there are more than 100 chapters nationwide, including one here in Portland.

Read the full 2023 interview with Black Girls Do Bike founder, Monica Garrison, here courtesy of the League of American Bicyclists.

Are you a Property Manager?

Would you like to tell your current or future tenants in the Central Eastside or Northwest Parking Districts about the Transportation Wallet? Contact us and we can share a GIF for your digital lobby display monitors.

My Commute Story Thank you to those who have submitted your “My Commute” story. We’ll showcase a new commute story in the newsletter each month. Simply share your story here. If your story is selected, we’ll reward you with your choice of a $20 TriMet Hop card, $20 BIKETOWN credit, or $30 in e-scooter credits. Congratulations to this month’s “My Commute” winner, Kate EM! Here’s what Kate has to share about their commute. How do you typically commute? I’ve been a car-free commuter for over 20 years now! In a typical week in Portland, I take the bus, MAX, streetcar, walk, *and* ride my bike! Does your commute change depending on the time of year, or stay the same? I’m a year-round cyclist but the days I ride vary and I love having the option to use TriMet, especially in sudden inclement weather. One time I bailed on biking all the way home at the 12th and Clinton Orange Line station because of a sudden hailstorm!! What do you enjoy about your commute? I love the time my commutes give me to catch up on talking with out of state friends and family, listen to music or an audiobook, or just to enjoy the scenery. In our busy world it feels like a much-needed time of resetting. What would make your commute easier? I really love the ped/bike infrastructure in SE like the Lafayette and Bob Stacey Overcrossings. I look forward to Portland adding more dedicated pedestrian infrastructure! What are your commute essentials? Fenders and rechargeable lights, and headphones - I don’t personally bike with headphones but I’ve gotta have access to my tunes when I’m off the bike.   What tips do you have to share? Ask a friend or a local bike shop for tips and support! We all had to start somewhere, and chances are someone will be happy to help you :) I also recommend the online Portland Bike Map! Thank you Kate EM for sharing your story!

Don’t have a Transportation Wallet yet? Curious about how it works? Learn more and sign up here.

It is the policy of the City of Portland that no person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in any city program, service, or activity on the grounds of race, color, national origin, disability, or other protected class status. Adhering to Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II civil rights laws, the City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities by reasonably providing: translation and interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, and auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, contact the Portland Bureau of Transportation at 503-823-5185 or 311 (503-823-4000), for Relay Service & TTY: 711.