Get Healthy: HHS earns bicycle honor

This column appears in the Nevada Appeal Wednesday health pages. It addresses topics related to the health of our community.

On this Earth Day, Carson City Health and Human Services has been recognized by the League of American Bicyclists with a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB) award for leading America toward a greener future.

With the announcement of 80 new and renewing BFBs today in 29 states and Washington, D.C., CCHHS joins a cutting-edge group of more than 650 local businesses, government agencies and Fortune 500 companies across the United States that are transforming the American workplace.

“Visionary business leaders are recognizing the real-time and long-term impact that a culture of bicycling can create,” said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists. “We applaud this new round of businesses for investing in a more sustainable future for the country and a healthier future for their employees.”

The Health Department encourages bicycling as an easy option for transportation and provides amenities such as bicycle parking to employees and clients, as well as incentives such as free helmet distributions at community events.

Carson City Health and Human Services is the first Northern Nevada entity to be recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Business, joining several Las Vegas-area businesses and agencies. Carson City plans to re-apply for Bicycle Friendly Community status again this fall, after previously being awarded an honorable mention.

Moving forward, Carson City Health and Human Services will have access to a variety of free tools and technical assistance from the League to become even more bicycle-friendly. When our community bikes, great things happen: Less traffic, reduced air pollution, improved physical fitness and better sense of community. Carson City Health and Human Services is proud to be part of the movement toward active transportation in Carson City. From the Community Health Improvement Plan to the Safe Routes to School program, the department has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving bicycle and pedestrian safety and access in our state capital.

The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of America’s 57 million bicyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org.