The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) was recently recognized by the League of American Bicyclists with a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly Business (BFBSM) award, the only gold recognition to any organization in Nevada.

The promotion and development of bicycle-friendly communities supports the RTC’s initiative to create Complete Streets or roadways designed to include room for all commuters, including cyclists, according to the agency. The RTC, along with Southern Nevada Strong, encourages bicycling as a viable option for transportation to current employees and the entire Southern Nevada community.

Through amenities such as the RTC Bike Center inside the Bonneville Transit Center that provide free bicycle parking, a full-service bike shop, showers, bike lockers, a repair facility and free bike clinics, the RTC can make cycling around the valley much more convenient. Additionally, the RTC incentivizes users of alternative modes of transportation, such as cycling, by providing prizes to those who report their commutes through the Club Ride Commuter Services program.

“When our employees bike, great things happen: it encourages them to stay active and healthy, it helps reduce traffic congestion, improves air quality and provides another accessible mode of transportation in Southern Nevada,” said Tina Quigley, RTC GM. “We continue to raise awareness through community bike rides and bike-to-work initiatives to help remind Southern Nevadans that cycling is a viable mode of transportation.”

With the announcement of 76 new and renewing BFBs today, the RTC joins a cutting-edge group of 1,197 local businesses, government agencies, and Fortune 500 companies in 49 states and Washington, D.C., that are transforming the American workplace. Moving forward, the RTC will have access to a variety of tools and technical assistance from the League to become even more bicycle-friendly.

To learn more about the RTC’s cycling initiatives, visit rtcsnv.com, and to apply or learn more about the BFB program, visit www.bikeleague.org/business.