Transportation alternatives encouraged

Monday, April 21, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

Motorists are being urged to bike to work or take the bus as local transportation officials observe Try Transit Week.

The sixth annual observation is highlighted by Tuesday's Bike-to-Work Day activities and Thursday's free rides on Citizens Area Transit.

The weeklong campaign is designed to heighten awareness of the benefits of public transit and alternative forms of transportation. Ride-sharing and carpooling also are encouraged.

On Bike-to-Work Day, participating bicyclists will be given a commemorative T-shirt and refreshments if they stop by the Fremont Street Experience or Henderson City Hall.

On Thursday, CAT rides are free on all routes starting at 5:30 a.m.

"While our valley's population grows at approximately 8 percent per year, ridership on CAT continues to increase up to 34 percent per annum," said Kurt Weinrich, director of the Clark County Regional Transportation Commission. "These numbers are significant in that they clearly outline that more people are choosing transit every month."

An appreciation luncheon for transit employees is set for Wednesday.