Name: Robert
Occupation: Business Owner
Employer: Grit City Grindhouse
Gets around by: Bicycle, skateboard, and bus.
Where do you live and where do you work? I live in the 6th Avenue District. You might spot me at Bluebeard coffee, sipping a latte with my skateboard at my side. My business is located in the Triangle District, right by Puget Sound Pizza.
How do you get there? On warmer days, you’ll see me flying down 6th Ave on my bike, with my panniers fully loaded with everything I need for the day. (I can even stick my board in there.) During these more wet and cold months, I tend to save myself the extra effort and take the #1 or #11 bus to work.
How does it add up? How much money or time do you save? My business partner is consistently amazed by the fact that I beat him to work on my bike. So much so that the started biking himself and rather liked it. Money? My new bike has paid for itself at least 3 times with the money I save by not driving. And the bus? Well, I’d rather leave the good parking spaces for my customers. In that way, the bus pays for itself, too.
What’s in it for you? It’s a lifestyle choice. I enjoy my commute when it’s not alone in my car. And skateboarding to the bus stop and biking to my shop are a blast.
Do you have any tips for people who may be trying these modes for the first time? Skateboarding and biking are skills that take some time to acquire. Never ride over your skill level, always wear a helmet, and if you do take a spill, hopefully that means you’re learning something from it, and it makes you a better rider!