May is National Bike to Work Week, and this year, Bike to Work Day celebrated its 20th Anniversary. Countless cyclists pedaled the W&OD Trail into the Town of Herndon, one of over more than 100 regional pit stops. Most cyclists either resided in the town, like David Agland, or arrived in Herndon from areas to the west like a group of six riders from Ashburn and Leesburg.
Unlike other years where Bike to Work Day was equated with celebratory gatherings and, for many, a party-like atmosphere, things were a bit calmer this year due to COVID-19. On-site consumption of food and beverages was prohibited, as were live music and vendors. Pit stops became “T-shirt pick-up points,” which suited riders just fine.
“I’ve been coming here a lot of years,” said David Agland of Herndon as he picked up his t-shirt at the Herndon Pit Stop in front of the Old Town Hall and Train Depot. Cindy Roeder found double the fun in the event as the Director of the Herndon Parks and Recreation Department.
“The riders appreciate being back at Bike to Work Day this year,” Roeder said. “And the staff is excited to be hosting their first event since the start of the pandemic.”