Calvin Climie (pictured) has been biking to work for over 40 years. “I used to bike to my previous place of employment and have done so all my working life, so biking to work has been a habit,” said the math professor from the School of Advanced Technology. “It is so much faster than public transit for me, even in winter. I live relatively close to campus and ride the bike path to work mostly. It makes me feel good - warmed up and exercised for the start of my day.” 

Biking to work is a way of life for many College employees, like Louise Boudreault, a professor at the School of Health and Community Studies, who rarely drives a car to campus. “I’ve biked to work since I started part-time in 2006, and I’ve been full-time now since 2011. In all those years, I drove only twice to the College. It’s about 20 kilometres (km) from my house to the College. Most days I detoured from the University of Ottawa, making it a 50 km day of biking.” 

The City of Ottawa provides more than 900 km of trails, while the National Capital Commission’s cycling pathways provide connectivity options for cyclists in the region. Those paths and infrastructure are increasing, both around the region and on campus. 

I have been biking to work for over 20 years,” said Rebecca Volk, Manager, Centre for Organizational Learning. “I have affixed my trusty bike to a variety of posts, bike racks and fences, as the landscape permits. I love the increased number of bike racks and bike repair stations.” 

The College has made efforts to aid cyclists with bike repair stations installed on the Ottawa Campus, outside the Student Commons (E) building, CA Building and B Building. These stations allow cyclists to mount their bicycles and use the provided tools to perform minor repairs. 

While the College has provided repair stations, almost every cyclist employee says the top of their wish list includes a covered spot for bikes and a secure location to store bikes on campus. 

Interested in giving cycling a go? “Just try it,” advised Baking and Pastry program instructor Barbara Burkhard. “Make sure you stop at red lights and stop signs. Most car drivers are nice and respectful. Also invest in brightly coloured gear. After all, it is also our responsibility to be seen. Night lights are a must.”