In honor of National Bike To Work Day on Friday, May 15th, we are highlighting a few members who use Indego for their daily commute. 

Name:  Russell Swan

Occupation:  Attorney – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region III

Interests:  Biking, hiking, and traveling.

Neighborhood: Admittedly, I do not live in the city.  I live in Glenside, PA. However, I spend a tremendous amount of time in Center City since my office is located near the Comcast Center.

Favorite thing about Philly: 

There are so many wonderful things about Philadelphia.  First, the people. Being from Pittsburgh, I have been made to feel right at home here in Philly, and that’s due in large part to the kind spirit of its people.  Second, Philly has the perfect blend of the historical and the new.  I marvel at that mix as I, just yesterday, pedaled past the place where the Constitution was signed, while riding an Indego bicycle. History meets innovation.  Lastly, Philadelphia is just a great place to live and work. The city gets better as it continues to increase bike friendly passageways.

Why do you ride Indego?

I am an environmentalist.  As such, I am concerned about issues surrounding greenhouse gases and the like.  There is no debate that vehicle traffic in urban cities contribute heavily to the decrease in air quality.  I ride Indego, first and foremost, because the program provides a step in the direction of ameliorating poor air quality in the city.  I also ride Indego because I believe in fitness, and bike riding is a good way to burn a few calories and keep the heart happy.

Do you ride Indego to work? If so, how’s it going?

I do not ride Indego to work, but I do ride it during lunch.  Philadelphia has great parks and open spaces.  Working in center city limited my access to these parks.  With Indego, I am able to hop on a bike, get to a great park, have lunch, and get back to the office, refreshed and ready to roll.  In fact, just yesterday, I went to an Indego station at JFK and rode to Penn’s Landing.  In my 25 year work history, I have never had the opportunity to eat lunch there. With Indego, I was able to get to Penn’s Landing, have a relaxed lunch, and get back to the office rearing to go! It’s been fantastic!

What views do you see on your commute?

One of my favorite lunch time rides has been the loop up Kelly Drive and down West River Drive.  Riding along Boathouse Row with the Schuylkill River in the background was just awesome.  The best view I’ve had so far can be summed up this way:  I was coming up Market Street on my way back from Penn’s Landing.  As I rode past one of the bus stops, this man points at me and waves excitedly while exclaiming, “Yo, he’s riding one of those bikes!” I was happy to see that gentleman so excited about seeing Indego in action.

Any tips for new Indego riders?

If you are new to city riding, I suggest you look at the map provided by Indego and stick to the streets with designated bike lanes.  Riding in the city is fun, but one needs to be vigilant.  Second, always wear a helmet.  If your ride is two minutes or two hours, there should always be a helmet on your head! Third, be ready to interact with the general public.  I have had so many conversations with people regarding the program, how it works, costs, etc.  Be patient.  You may be the only thing between them and joining the program. Lastly, have fun!

Will you bike to work on Friday, May 15th in honor of National Bike To Work Day?

Yes I will.  I’ll probably ride my personal bike since I’ll be coming from Glenside.