An even bigger and better Bike to Work Day celebration returns to downtown Durango on Wed., June 27. Unlike the morning affairs of years past, this year’s event will hit the happy hour crowds, taking place from 4 to 7 p.m. in the 1000 block of Main Avenue. The new time and central location is an effort to reach more people with the alternative-transportation message of Bike to Work Day, said organizers.

“Biking or walking to work one day a week instead of driving would result in better health and fitness for adults and children alike, and we’d see a noticeable decrease in air pollution and traffic,” said Mary Monroe, executive director of Trails 2000.

Headed up by the City’s Central Business District and Special Events office, the beefed up event will include a bike wash, bicycle safety checks, free bike bells, T-shirts, children’s activities and prizes, snacks, and a beer garden featuring local brews. Special highlights include a new corporate participation challenge, a Trek cruiser give-away and free used bikes for those in need, donated by the Mr. Smylie Bicycle Project. Durango Transit will also offer a free fare day in conjunction with Bike to Work Day.

“My biggest hope is that this new concept will go much farther in reaching out to more of our community by bringing together our hard-core cyclists, the recreational riders and those that just need a bike for basic transportation,” said Russell Zimmerman, owner of Durango Cyclery, a sponsor of the event.

Other sponsors include Colorado Department of Transportation, the City of Durango, Trails 2000, Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, Durango Wheel Club, Safe Roads Coalition, Healthy Lifestyle La Plata and Coca-Cola Bottling of Durango.

June is Bike to Work Month in Colorado.