January 22, 2010 (Vancouver, BC) – VANOC is still advocating that cycling and other green transportation methods are the way to go for getting around the 2010 Games in Vancouver next month, despite some restrictions for bicycles on the SkyTrain light rail system.

VANOC says: “Walk, bike and use public transportation whenever possible. Using these modes will ensure you get to your destination while contributing to a greener, more sustainable Games.”

Translink, Vancouver’s transit system, echos VANOC: “During the Games there will be road restrictions, increased vehicle traffic and no parking at venues and along key routes. Public transit, walking and cycling will be the easiest ways to get around, especially to Games venues and events in Vancouver and Richmond.”

On Translink’s website, cyclists can find lots of information on Olympic cycling routes and transit service for cyclists during the Games. Cyclists should be aware of a few notices from Translink:

– During the Games, bikes are allowed on buses and SeaBus when space is available. Due to the extraordinary increase in traffic expected, and for safety reasons, bikes are not permitted on SkyTrain from February 8 to March 3.
– It is recommended cyclists use Bike Lockers at transit stations or avoid taking bikes on rapid transit during peak times. Note that all Games venues offer bike lock facilities.
– Visit the City of Vancouver’s Bike Routes page for details on Games-time changes.

Visit www.translink.ca for more info. In addition, TransLink and its transportation partners have developed a support site, www.TravelSmart2010.ca, to provide information and ongoing updates for residents, businesses and Games spectators planning their 2010 travel in advance of the Games. TravelSmart2010.ca will continually be updated with the latest available information from now right through the 2010 Winter Games.

The Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition (VACC) has compiled information for cyclists during the Games: Guide to Getting Around the Games by bike on www.vacc.bc.ca.

In an additional bicycle-friendly perk of the Games, according to a CTVolympics.ca article, the Dutch government has sent 425 bikes to Vancouver for the 2010 Games in order to promote cycling, healthy lifestyles, and cycling as sustainable transportation,. The bikes will be available at Holland Heineken House, the Dutch hospitality centre in Richmond, for spectators to pedal to the Olympic Oval or to cruise around Vancouver. Read the article here.