Communities

Philadelphia already has the highest percentage of bicycle commuters among the 10 largest US cities (1.6%), but lags behind smaller metropolises such as Minneapolis (3.5%) and Portland (6%) (Census 2010).  Commuter Connection is working to decrease this gap through promoting multi-modal commuting – a combination of pedestrian, bicycle and public transit commuting.  The benefit of multi-modal commuting is that it expands the range and attractiveness of bicycle commuting to commuters who live far from work or don’t live near local/regional bicycle trails.  Commuter Connection is currently partnering with businesses in Norristown and Southwest Philadelphia on education and outreach aimed at increasing commuter awareness among their employees of the physical, social, environmental and financial benefits of multi-modal commuting.

Regional map showing location of targeted communities.

Norristown and Southwest Philadelphia both a contain high concentration of transit lines – with Regional Rail, bus and high speed lines serving both areas. This transit system is complemented by a well-rated and regarded regional trail network that frequently crosses bus and regional rail lines throughout the region, giving the area a well-rounded transportation network.  This network offers a prime opportunity for multi-modal commuting on a regular basis.