Celebrating Florida Bike Month, Active Transportation, and Alternative Modes of Transportation 

March is Florida Bicycle Month! All across the Sunshine State, Floridians recognize the important role bikes play in our daily lives. From staying active and healthy to providing an essential transportation option for those without cars, bicycles are a powerful tool for both fitness and mobility. 

This is also a great time to reflect on the broader importance of active transportation. Think about it—most of us start our day on foot, whether it’s walking to the car in the driveway or taking the steps to catch the bus. For some, walking is the entire commute. Take Plan Hillsborough staffers Jennifer Malone and Yassert Gonzalez, for example. Jennifer finds that walking to work is a great way to begin her day. It helps her clear her mind, enjoy some outdoor time, and prepare for the workday ahead. She loves listening to podcasts while soaking up the “vitamin D and nature,” and she feels more energized when she arrives at the office. 

Yassert, who lives near the office, describes his walk to work as a “hoot” and says it’s generally uneventful—except for the occasional thunderstorm or encounter with a stubborn bird. He enjoys noticing the little things, like wildflowers, the moon during the day, and the sounds of the neighborhood. Plus, he’s had some great conversations with fellow pedestrians, making his daily walk a more social and enjoyable experience. 

Our “soon to be retired” Felicia Pulliam has been taking the bus to the office from East County since 1992. Her favorite part is not having the stress of being in traffic. It also saves putting the milage on the car, gas money, and gives her a chance to work on fun activities like crossword puzzles. And Transportation Planner, Connor Trejos-MacDonald rides the streetcar from Ybor City to work. He enjoys listening to his playlist and looking at the city. 

In our last newsletter, we highlighted staffer Ben Gordon, who’s been car-free for almost three months. He gets around on an electric bike, but that’s not the only option. His neighbor also opts for a car-free lifestyle by using an e-scooter. It’s more compact and affordable than an e-bike, and it’s a fun, eco-friendly alternative for anyone looking to dip their toes into micromobility. Ben’s neighbor even describes it as “fun and great for the environment.” 

Whether you’re walking, biking, or driving, it’s important to follow the rules of the road and be courteous to others. In the City of Tampa, the micromobility scene is thriving, with several vendors offering rental e-bikes and e-scooters. However, it’s important to remember that these vehicles are not permitted on the Tampa Riverwalk, Bayshore Boulevard, and 7th Avenue. If you’re using a bike or e-scooter, always obey traffic laws and yield the right of way to pedestrians. Additionally, if you’re taking HART buses, only folding bikes and scooters can be brought inside. Non-folding bikes can be secured on exterior racks, but scooters are not allowed. 

March has already seen great community events. On March 7th, Hillsborough TPO’s Executive Director Johnny Wong joined Mayor Andy Ross for a “Bike with the Mayor” event in Temple Terrace, while on March 13th, the Tampa Downtown Partnership hosted the Bike to Work Ride and Rally with Mayor Jane Castor. 

The celebrations continue with the “Bike Westshore” event on March 29th, hosted by the Westshore Alliance and Pedal Power Promoters. This event will feature two guided bike rides through the Westshore District, highlighting safe, low-stress routes and urban biking. Be sure to register soon—spots are expected to fill up fast! 

Whether cycling, walking, or cheering others on, let’s continue celebrating the benefits of active transportation throughout Florida Bicycle Month and beyond!