Are you interested in learning about different commuting options? Do you want a greener commute and a chance to get some exercise? Then try biking to work! With spring and warmer temperatures around the corner, bicycling is a great option for commuting.
The NIH is the perfect place to start commuting by bicycle, as the NIH has won many bicycling commuter awards. To get started, the Division of Amenities and Transportation Services (DATS) offers a commuter subsidy for bicyclists. To learn more, visit: https://www.ors.od.nih.gov/pes/dats/nihbicycleprogram/Pages/default.aspx. To encourage alternative commuting via bicycle, DATS has added and/or replaced old bicycle lockers in the following locations:
- Building 45
- In front of Building 50
- Between Building 50 and 12
- Lot 10H by Building 10
- Building 49
Additionally, DATS has ordered new bike shelters that will be installed by the end of March in the small lot in front of Building 49. To view a map designating all of the NIH Bethesda campus bike racks, lockers and shelters, please visit: http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/maps/Pages/Bicycle-Racks-Lockers-Map.aspx.
There is also the NIH Bicycle Commuter Club (NIHBCC) that can help you get started with bicycling or provide advice to even our expert riders. The NIHBCC can assist with everything from equipment choices to the best routes to commute to the NIH. The NIHBCC website can be found at: http://www.nihbike.com/.
Bicycles can be operated on the sidewalks in Montgomery County, as well as on the NIH Bethesda Campus. Whether bicycling on sidewalks or roadways, operators must obey all traffic laws and adhere to signage. Safe driving and bicycling is everyone’s obligation.
If a bicyclist chooses to enter the campus through the vehicle gates, he or she must meet the same criteria as an employee operating a car. Bicyclists are asked to use the lane closest to the guard booth as the sensors, which detects the metal of a car, cannot sense the bicycle. The gate arm has been shortened so a bicyclist can go around the arm if needed. The guard at the booth can assist with any issues or challenges with campus entry. Bicyclists should familiarize themselves with campus entry guidelines by visiting the updated NIH Perimeter Security System – Bicycle Fact Sheet at: https://security.nih.gov/staff/Pages/BicycleFactSheet.aspx.
Let’s share the road and be safe.
