Bring Your to Bike to Work

These officials got the wheels in motion early.

Proponents were celebrating in advance today over the expected passage of New York City's bicycle access bill, which comes before the City Council tomorrow.

Under the proposal, commercial buildings must allow workers to bring their bikes into the office -- if their employers approve. It does not require the buildings to create storage.

The measure aims to improve public health, reduce carbon emissions and provide a cheaper commute.

“In a city in which one in eight kids has asthma, this bill is a long overdue step towards reducing carbon emissions, improving public health, and building a sustainable transportation infrastructure,” said Council Member David Yassky, who introduced the bill in 2006.

City officials figure a bunch more people will bike to work or to shop if they know they've got a safe place to store their gear. They also hope the new law will encourage city residents to cut the fat; nearly 70 percent of New Yorkers don't get enough exercise.

"Every day, biking becomes a more established part of our transportation network and this legislation literally opens the door to making cycling an even more attractive and serious transportation option," said Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan. "Improved access is also a tremendous boon for businesses who want to encourage cycling among their employees, and it's a catalyst for engineering a greener, greater New York City.”

The bill is being championed by Acting Deputy Health Commissioner Andy Goodman and Council Speaker Christine Quinn, among others.