Free bikes, rickshaws, and segways help convention goers get around
Read more: Local, State, Election, Colorado Springs, Go Green
As expected, downtown Denver has been packed with convention gores. Over the past few days, thousands have flooded the streets, creating a traffic nightmare.
So many have chose alternative methods of transportation.
"We have provided over 1,000 bicycles for the Democratic National Convention this week in Denver," Mitch L ubitz with Humana said.
The "FreeWheelin" bikes were provided by Humana and Bikes Belong, a national bike advocacy coalition. The free rides are a popular mode of transportation. As of Tuesday, over 2,500 had been checked out.
"The bikes are provided to the public, convention goers, media, delegates, tourists and residents at seven bike stations across the city," Lubitz said.
For others, there is light rail and city buses, if you do not mind being packed in like a sardine. But, convention goers say it is better then paying meter fees.
And for the truly brave, a skateboard is always an option, although most prefer the comfort of a rickshaw or segway.
"It is a lot faster, I can get to the Pepsi Center in five minutes, while a taxi will take you at least 15 minutes," rickshaw driver Ian Gartland said.
And the price is unbeatable.
"I work solely on tips, so it is whatever people want to pay," Gartland said.
Traffic is only expected to get worse as the week continues, and people flood the city in anticipation of Barack Obama's speech on Thursday.
Just a reminder, I-25 will be shut down thursday night while Obama gives his acceptance speech because the interstate runs near Invesco Field where he will appear.
The five and a half mile section will close at 5:30 p.m. on August 28th and remain closed until the night's events are over.
