Phoenix Bike to Work Day Named Finalist for 2026 Clean Air Campaign Award

PHOENIX – Phoenix Bike to Work Day 2026 has been named a finalist for a Valley Metro Clean Air Campaign Award in the Outstanding Campaign or Event – Public Employer category.

The recognition comes one year after Phoenix Bike to Work Day was at risk of not taking place. In 2025, Councilwoman Laura Pastor stepped in to ensure the longstanding event continued and worked with Urban Phoenix Project to bring together City departments, community organizations and sponsors. The collaboration continued in 2026, with 140 people participating in the ride from Steele Indian School Park to Arizona Center in Downtown Phoenix.

“Keeping Bike to Work Day going was important to me because of what this event represents,” Councilwoman Laura Pastor said. “Phoenix is working toward a future with more transportation choices and cleaner air, and Bike to Work Day gives our residents a chance to experience that vision firsthand. I’m excited to see the community continue to embrace it.”

Urban Phoenix Project has been a key partner in growing Bike to Work Day, leading much of the community outreach, partnership-building and coordination behind the event.

“At Urban Phoenix Project, we believe the way we move through our city reflects our values as a community,” Nicole Rodriguez, who led Urban Phoenix Project’s work on Bike to Work Day, said. “Bike to Work Day is more than just a ride—it's a reminder that every commute is an opportunity to connect with our neighbors, support local businesses, and invest in a Phoenix where everyone, whether heading to a job site, an office, or a classroom, has a safe and accessible way to get there.”

The 2026 Valley Metro Clean Air Campaign Award winners will be announced Tuesday, October 27, at the Heard Museum. For more information about the Clean Air Campaign Awards, visit valleymetro.org/commute-solutions/clean-air-campaign-awards.