Georgia Commute Options has received a proclamation from the City of Atlanta declaring October as “Biketober Month.” The announcement was made on Monday, October 21, during an event attended by Atlanta City Council members, city staff, representatives from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), and Georgia Commute Options. Biketober is an annual challenge that encourages people of all biking experience levels across Metro Atlanta to participate throughout the month. The program is funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation and managed by ARC.
This year’s theme for Biketober is “Spark Joy,” continuing efforts from previous years to increase community engagement in cycling. Participation has increased significantly this year. Over 350 workplaces have joined the challenge, exceeding last year’s numbers. More than 2,300 riders have logged their trips so far, reflecting a growing interest in biking for health and sustainability. Additionally, more than 600 participants reported joining because they were encouraged by friends, coworkers, or family members.
“Biketober has been an inspiration for the region, and I’ve been inspired to get on a bike myself,” said ARC Executive Director and CEO Anna Roach. “We continue to build momentum each year and the proclamation from the city further exemplifies our commitment to sharing the benefits and joys of bike riding in metro Atlanta.”
Atlanta City Council member Byron Amos read the official proclamation at the event. He recognized ARC and Georgia Commute Options for supporting sustainability and connectivity through active transportation initiatives that help reduce congestion and improve air quality while fostering healthier communities.
Since its start in 2014, Biketober participants have collectively logged over three million miles on bicycles and helped save more than 416,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. Participants can win prizes such as a $1,000 Airbnb gift card or e-bikes by riding or encouraging others to join.
“Belly laughs, beads of sweat on my forehead, soft and forceful breezes on my face, indescribable joy, inner strength – these are just some of the experiences I have been blessed to enjoy during the BIKETOBER Atlanta Bike Challenge.” ~ Daundria P., first time challenge participant.
The Atlanta Regional Commission serves as the planning agency for an 11-county area including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Rockdale counties as well as Atlanta itself and other cities in the region. Its mission focuses on building thriving communities through collaborative planning efforts.
Georgia Commute Options works with employers and commuters to promote alternatives to driving alone—such as public transit use or biking—with aims to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
For more information about Biketober or Georgia Commute Options programs visit www.GaCommuteOptions.com or sign up at Biketober.com Love to Ride.
