Mayor Paul Glaab Rides His Bike, So Should You

Commuters looking for ways to improve their health, help the environment and cut the cost of driving are invited to participate in Bike to Work Week from May 14-18. To kick off the week, riders are encouraged to join OCTA for a Bike Rally Thursday, May 10.

Bike Rally participants will meet at the Orange Metrolink Station at 7:30 a.m. for a 3-mile ride to the OCTA headquarters alongside OCTA Director Sean Nelson, OCTA Director Lorri Galloway and CEO Will Kempton, kicking off Bike to Work Week.

“With the weather warming up and gas prices still expensive, now is the perfect time to save money and exercise by choosing to ride a bike rather than drive,” said OCTA Chairman Paul Glaab, also mayor of Laguna Niguel. “Orange County is home to more than 1,000 miles of bikeways, making Bike to Work Week a viable transportation alternative for many residents.”

Glaab isn't just talking the talk either. He rides his 21-speed red mountain bike weekly with his daughter Molly for enjoyment or to go somewhere locally. However, because he primarily works out of his home, he doesn’t use his bike to ride to work.

"We have three bikes at our house," he said. "Laguna Niguel has great topography but for a 10-year-old, it can be hilly. We ride near St. Anne's quite a bit. "

As a kid he said he had a top-of-the-line racing bike that he rode everywhere.

"While we’re encouraging people their bike to work, we know it is not feasible for everyone. However every mile someone takes by bike, whether it’s to the market, their local center to see a movie or for enjoyment, makes a difference," said Laura Scheper, spokesperson for OCTA.

To date, more than 500 bikers in Orange County have pledged to ride approximately 73,000 miles during National Bike Month in May. Participants can pledge to ride to work, school, shop or play for a chance to win prizes donated by local businesses such as a bike, iPad, Oakley sunglasses and cycling gear.

To be eligible for prizes, participants can visit www.octa.net/ bike  and fill out a pledge form. After completing the form, a $25 discount coupon to Jax Bicycle Center is available for download.

Just in time for summer, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is offering the perfect ride for those 18 and younger.

Summer Bus Pass

The $50 Youth Summer Bus Pass provides unlimited countywide access to OCTA buses from June 1 to Aug. 31. In addition, pass holders will experience the benefits of discounts at more than 25 businesses and entertainment centers throughout the county including theme parks and museums. Click here for a list of available discounts.

“This is a great way for young people to travel around the county and for less than $17 a month, it’s an unbeatable deal,” said OCTA Chairman Paul Glaab, also mayor of Laguna Niguel. “Whether it’s for summer school or summer fun, our bus system is a safe and reliable way to reach your destination.”

If you don't have a bike you can always buy a bus pass. Last year, OCTA sold 2,450 Youth Summer Bus Passes. The three-month pass can be purchased online at octa.net/buyapass, at the OCTA store and at