Thousands of San Diegans commuted on two wheels in Thursday's annual Bike to Work Day, organized by the San Diego Association of Governments.
Volunteers staffed 100 pit stops countywide, offering T-shirts, refreshments, snacks and encouragement, according to SANDAG. Some also provided free bike repairs, tune-ups and breakfast.
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Andy Hanshaw, executive director of the San Diego County Bike Coalition, said shifting commute habits from cars to bikes is a crucial part of San Diego's greenhouse gas reduction plans.
"We want to encourage people to try it, to experience it, and then join our movement to make bicycling better," he said. "This is a one-day event, but really we want to promote it year round, and we want to push for safe places for people to ride."
Since the bicyclists will also have to ride home in the afternoon, drivers are asked to exercise extra caution.