Welcome Spring by Rethinking Your Commute!
Spring is right around the corner (March 20), and it is almost time for blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and longer evenings thanks to daylight saving time. After months of snow, chilly days, and darker commutes, this season invites us to step outside, soak up the sun, and shake up our routines, which includes the way we get around.
Spring is the perfect time to rethink your commute and try something new! Whether that means walking to work, biking to the bus stop, or hopping on a scooter, every small change can make your trip more enjoyable, while helping to reduce traffic congestion across the District.
Are you ready to give your commute a seasonal refresh, but not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas to get going:
Spring Into Motion 🌼
Enjoy the Extra Daylight
Longer days mean more opportunities to be outside. Instead of sitting in traffic, consider walking or biking for part of your trip. The fresh air and sunshine might just become the best part of your morning and evening routine.
Rediscover Your Bike
If your bike has been collecting dust all winter, now’s the time to bring it back out. Start with a short ride around your neighborhood or try biking to a nearby transit stop. It’s a fun way to add movement to your commute, and it might even save you time. Visit a local bike shop in your area for some refreshers or check out Gearin Up Bicycles, a program of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), that serves as a community bike shop and hub for bicycle repair education.
Here are a few shops in the District to take advantage of:
- Gearin’ Up Bicycles 151 Q ST NE, Washington, DC, 20002
- Conte’s Bike Shop (multiple locations) 1331 4th St SE Suite 101, Washington, DC, 20003
- The Daily Rider 600 H St NE suite d, Washington, DC, 20002
Turn Errands into Mini Adventures
Spring is the perfect excuse to walk or scoot to nearby destinations. Whether you’re grabbing lunch, picking up groceries, or heading to a meeting, those quick trips can be a great way to enjoy extra time outdoors.
Become a Confident City Cyclist
If you’re a fan of recreational cycling on trails but don’t feel confident riding your bike to work through city streets, you’re a perfect candidate for WABA’s classes. Take one of their road riding classes to build your skills and learn how to navigate DC streets on two wheels confidently.
Explore Some of DC’s Most Scenic Routes
If you’re looking for a fun way to test out biking or scooting, try incorporating one of D.C.’s waterfront or trail routes into your commute or after-work ride. Popular spots include:
- The Wharf
- Navy Yard
- Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
For a longer ride, the Capital Crescent Trail is a favorite for cyclists and runners alike, offering a peaceful path away from traffic. These routes make it easy to enjoy the outdoors while discovering new ways to get around the city.
Earn Rewards During Your Commute
Kick start your new commute by participating in the goDMV Commuter Competition from April 1 to May 15. Using the CommuterCash app, participants log their trips, climb the leaderboard, earn points redeemable for cash, and win free raffle prizes.
Spring is all about new beginnings—and your commute can be part of that refresh. Try biking one day, taking transit another, or walking when the weather is just too pleasant to pass up. Whether you start small by walking once a week or fully embrace biking, scooting, or transit, trying something new can transform your daily trip into something you actually look forward to.
So, this season, step outside, enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, and see where a new commute can take you!
