Trailnet Research Project
Help Trailnet conduct research on its TravelGreen program and biking to work in St. Louis.
Trailnet wants to interview young professionals 21-35 (preferably those who live in the city) who are interested in biking to work, but haven't done it before or just started riding. Interviews will take 30-45 minutes and be conducted on-site.
If interested in participating in this study e-mail or call 314.436.9215, extension 117.
Cycling Benefits
Learn about the benefits of commuter and recreational cycling through your hospital representative courtesy of Trailnet, a nonprofit organization that fosters healthy and active communities through innovative programs that promote bicycling and walking.
Trailnet offers BJC employees the chance to learn more about cycling and cycling safety through its TravelGreen program.
Where there is BJC employee interest, Trailnet will provide educational material on topics including:
- Health benefits and ease of bike commuting
- Sharing the road
- Basic cycling safety
- Confident cycling
- Basic bicycle maintenance
- Routing resources
- Smart equipment choices
BJC employees participate in National Bike to Work Day May 21, 2010.
BJC Bike to Work Representatives
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital -- Amy Smoot, 314.996.3050
Boone Hospital Center -- Jeff Zimmermann, 573.815.3263
Christian Hospital -- Rebecca Niebruegge, 314.653.5245
Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital -- Kathleen Reed, 573.860.1608
Parkland Health Center -- Sheri Graham, 573.760.8175
“Through this initiative with Trailnet, we hope to reach out to cycling enthusiasts and novices across BJC,” says Kathleen Killion, BJC executive director of health literacy. “Cycling offers tremendous health benefits. With additional education and increased road confidence, there may be many more employees who would take advantage of cycling as an alternative to driving to work.”
Top 10 Road Tips for Cyclists
- Bike defensively; bike as if you aren't visible to cars; use hand signals and wear lights and reflectors
- Follow the rules of the road; bikers should stop at red lights and stop signs, just like a car; failure to follow these rules can result in a ticket or injury
- Bicyclists arent allowed on sidewalks in business districts; sidewalks are more dangerous because people are looking for people going at pedestrian speed, not someone moving as fast as a bike
- Bicyclists should keep to the right of the road and ride in the direction of traffic
- Be extra aware of surface hazards such as grates, potholes, glass and other road debris; always be aware of upcoming or passing traffic
- Be especially aware of railroad tracks; bicyclists should cross at a right angle to the tracks, making sure the road is clear prior to turning
- Be aware of motorists pulling out of parking spaces and exiting cars; give yourself four feet of clearance
- Be cautious when riding in foul weather; use a longer stopping distance, be careful when cornering and braking, watch out for leaves covering painted lines, manhole covers and railroad tracks, and be cautious about driver visibility and maneuverability
- When biking straight through an intersection, the bike takes the lane; make eye contact with oncoming traffic
- When taking a right or left turn, the bike takes the lane to avoid cars cutting you off; always use a hand signal