Bike/Walk to Work Week

Bike/Walk to Work Week Commuter Profile 

Arielle Johnson

Arielle Johnson (she/her/hers) is an Admissions Counselor at Macalester. She uses a variety of modalities to commute to work - from biking, to walking, public transit, driving, or carpooling. She describes her commute as: "a lovely, simple route that's almost entirely composed of bike-friendly streets and well maintained sidewalks." On days that she takes public transit, she takes the Green Line and A Line for a short 20 minute commute. 

"I love that I have the option to bike to work when the weather is nice, and when it's not, I can simply take transit in the morning and then walk home!" 

When asked what advice she has for those getting started in alternative forms of transportation, she said: "Just try it. Pick a day (why not Bike/Walk to Work Day!), pick a modality (if biking, walking, or transit aren't viable options, try carpooling!), and give it a shot for one day. Getting out of our everyday habits and patterns can be difficult, but when you try a new form of transportation, you might be surprised by how easy, fun, or rejuvenating it actually is. I have found taking transit to be a relaxed way to start the day and build community with my fellow Green Line/A Line friends, and the exercise/fresh air combo I get from biking or walking always gives me a boost after a long day."

Still need an extra push? Check out this Star Tribune article featuring Mac alumni, Gordy Moore  about how cyclists are the happiest commuters: http://www.startribune.com/want-a-happy-commute-researchers-point-to-travel-by-bicycle/509074082/