To PaCMan is to pedestrian and cycle Manitou Springs. This month PaCMan caught up with Crystal Park Road resident Greg Smith who regularly chooses to ride a bike to work year-round. Greg is a Licensed Massage Therapist and the Director of Operations for a Public Charity.
How long have you been a resident and why did you choose to live in Manitou?
Three and a half years. My wife and I moved here because of the natural beauty of the area, the amazing trails, and the friendly community.
Why do you choose to walk or bike as a transportation?
I seldom walk as transportation. However, I often ride a bicycle as transportation. I choose this form of transportation because it reduces impact on the environment, provides personal health and wellness benefits, and it provides opportunities to say hello to neighbors and others out in the community.
What infrastructure and/or esthetic improvement would have the most positive impact on your walking or bicycling experience in Manitou Springs?
The majority of Manitou Springs offers a safe and inviting pedestrian infrastructure that is accessible and serves people of all ages and abilities. There are a few areas, like a short portion of the lower section of Crystal Park Road, that could be improved because pedestrians and motorists must share the same roadway.
What advice would you give someone who would like to give walking or biking as transportation a try but does not have much time?
Try to slowly integrate walking or rolling into your schedule. Ask others to join you and use the time as an opportunity to get to know and enjoy your community.
What do you think would increase more walking and rolling of visitors and residents alike in Manitou Springs?
Awareness and intentional lifestyle improvements. Maybe some are not accustomed to walking and rolling in their community. Maybe they do not know that our community is blessed with a world class trail system, exceptional walking/biking path network, and 300 days of annual sunshine.
What other form of transportation do you use other than a car (i.e. bus, carpooling)? What has that experience been like?
I bike commute approximately 100 days per year. I use trails to avoid traffic congestion and traffic lights. My commute times are only 15-20 minutes longer than driving. This is a remarkably safe and enjoyable way to get to and from the office.