By Bike, By Bus, By Car… We All Win!

May 19, 2009 - Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen, Regional Councillor John Taylor, and Councillor Larry Blight competed in a commuter challenge to showcase which mode of transportation is the “smart” choice for commuting to work. Mayor Van Bynen took YRT/VIVA, Regional Councillor Taylor cycled to work, and Councillor Blight drove his Smart Car.

Mayor Van Bynen, Councillor Larry Blight and Regional Councillor John Taylor set off on their "Commuter Challenge."		Regional Councillor John Taylor...wheels in first at 13:23!

“The goal of today’s event was not to identify the fastest way to get to work, but rather to show our residents that driving a car isn’t the only option.” noted Mayor Tony Van Bynen. “During my commute on YRT/VIVA I was able to review a briefing report, meet with constituents and reduce my carbon foot print all before 9:00am!”

 

Mayor Van Bynen, travelling by YRT/Viva, arrives only a little over a minute late		Councillor Larry Blight arrived third in his eco friendly Smart Car at 15:06!

 

Councillor Larry Blight pointed out that driving a Smart Car not only gives him a convenient mode of transportation, but helps reduce his environmental impact.

“The Smart Car has low fuel consumption, is safe and environmentally friendly AND great for driving around town.”

As co-chair for Smart Commute Central York’s Third Annual Bike to Work Day, Regional Councillor John Taylor felt it imperative to represent cyclists in the commuter challenge. “What better way to promote Bike to Work Day this coming Monday, than by showcasing to our residents how easy and fun it is to bike to work. I encourage anyone who works and lives in Newmarket to consider riding their bike to work.”

• Bike: 13 minutes and 23 seconds
• YRT/VIVA: 14 minutes and 37 seconds
• Smart Car: 15 minutes and 6 seconds
  
  

Go back to the News page