In her graduate school days at UCLA, Ellen Schwartz used two feet to get to class, but now, as a staff member at the university, she rides two wheels to get to work on campus. For Sustainable Transportation Month, the Midwest transplant shares her bike commuting experience.
Pledge to Ride Not Drive Like Ellen to Win a Prize for Sustainable Transportation Month
“I've always liked biking. Ever since I was, like, 10-years-old and would bike to my babysitting jobs back home in Wisconsin, it's just been the way that I get around. I even biked when I lived in Guatemala City,” said Ellen.
The newly minted manager of the just-launched Center for Parking Policy, part of the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies, earned a master’s degree in urban and regional planning in the Public Affairs Building, which now houses her office.
Residing in Venice, her work commute covers about seven and a half miles.
“I've tried a few different routes, like: Walgrove Ave, Ocean Park Blvd, Clover Park, to 28th Street, which turns into Stewart Street — a new protected bike lane that's very nice. Then I'll go onto Colorado Ave, a nice tree-lined street, which turns into Idaho Ave, make my way to Ohio Ave, and come up to UCLA through Westwood Blvd,” Ellen said.
Ellen alternates between a traditional two-wheeler and a pedal-assist electric bike. Besides saving money and not worrying about parking, Ellen also enjoys the fresh air and sunshine.
With the e-bike, she says it’s nice because she doesn’t have to shower when she arrives. When Ellen takes the regular bike, she has the UCLA Recreation Commuter Passport, which provides access to on-campus showers and lockers at the Student Activities Center.
“The e-bike doesn't take that much longer than driving, and it's so much more enjoyable, and better for the environment,” said Ellen.
“I don't like sitting in traffic, especially on the way home. A couple times I did have to drive for some reason, and it was the same amount of time as it takes to bike, so especially in that case, I’d much rather bike,” said Ellen.
Ready to give riding like Ellen a try? Pledge to skip one car commute during October for a chance to win prizes including a Target or AMC Theatres gift card, UCLA Football tickets, and a 2-night stay at the UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge.
