Name: Jessica
Occupation: Project Associate
Employer: Boe architects
Gets around by: Walk and Car
Where do you live and where do you work?
I live off of south 43rd street just a few blocks from Alaska street. I work downtown on Pacific Avenue at BOE architects. It’s a 3.5 mile walk each way.
How do you get there?
Most of the week I drive the 3.7 miles to work (I know!). I also walk which takes me just over an hour. I recently did some modifications to my bike and will be trying that out soon.
How does it all add up? How much money and time do you save?
I don’t think I save any time since the walk is over an hour and I can drive and get door to door in 10 minutes BUT when I walk I get a 7 mile walk in without having to set aside time to “exercise”. Plus I’m more productive at work so that’s always good. I know I will save in gas money when I get on my bike and that will be much quicker round trip also.
What’s in it for you?
Well, I had lower back surgery this past December and part of my recovery has been to add in more walking plus with my job having so much sitting this is how I keep active. Plus by the time I get to work I’m so much more awake and alert. The walk home is a great way to change gears from work to home life. Though it’s mostly uphill heading home so it takes me a bit longer. I used to live in the suburbs and it would take me 45 min to an hour to commute each way so having such a short commute is great and the big PLUS is that I have so many options to get to work. Walk, bike, bus, drive…
Do you have any tips for people who might be trying this mode for the first time?
Pack a bag the night before – I walk in my workout clothes and running shoes and then change at work. Wet wipes are also your friend for the sweaty walks =). I also pack an extra snack to have right before I walk home, plus refill my water bottle before heading out the door. Try it just once and you’ll be hooked!