Bicycle commuting in Maine

The Augusta, Maine Morning Sentinel reports on the state of bicycle commuting in central Maine.

Fewer than 1 percent of Americans commute to work by bike, according to government data. Meanwhile, 76 percent of Americans drive to work alone.

But with gas prices and obesity rates rising, bike commuting might begin to look more attractive for some. Jeffrey Miller, director of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, said his Augusta office is receiving more inquires about bike commuting since recent spikes in gas prices.

Paul Mitnik bicycled for 15 years until his recent retirement. He said he rarely let weather sway him from riding; he rode all winter. "To me, it was fun," Mitnik said. "Once you start doing it, it's kind of addictive."

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