Pedal toward a better commute during Bike to Work Week
Published on May 01, 2025
City's IT Director shares how to find work-life balance on two wheels
>>May is National Bike Month, and in recognition of National Bike to Work Week, May 12 through 18, the City of St. Charles is spotlighting one of its own: a dedicated cyclist who enjoys the personal wellness and broader community benefits of biking to work on a regular basis. Read on for tips and inspiration you can use to start your own bike-to-work routine — whether it’s once a week or every day.
Spring through fall, when the days are longer and the trails are bustling with cyclists, the City’s Director of Information Technology, Larry Gunderson, trades four wheels for two during his commute to work — a habit that has become central to his weekly rhythm for 25 years. When the Batavia resident joined the City of St. Charles IT department nearly 10 years ago, the commuting practice came with him, motivated by both practicality and passion.
"I like the outdoors, but I sit behind a desk most the day, so getting outside as much as possible is important to me," Gunderson said, adding that cycling to work not only supports a healthy lifestyle but also helps the environment. "I get my exercise and commute in at the same time. If I can avoid using my car, I do — that’s always been my mindset."
Gunderson’s commute spans six miles each way, taking him from his home in Batavia to his St. Charles office at the Century Station building, located across the street from City Hall. The IT professional averages three bike commutes per week, timing his rides to align with daylight saving months — March through November — when longer daylight hours and favorable weather conditions make cycling to work more feasible.
Considerations
Prospective bike commuters should plan ahead and be flexible before hitting the road or trail, Gunderson advised. “I’d never suggest someone start biking to work without thinking it through,” he said. “But if the distance is reasonable, your schedule or lifestyle can accommodate it, and there’s a safe route to follow — it’s absolutely worth considering.”
As part of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, the City’s continued investment in bike infrastructure — including pedestrian islands, crosswalks, and wayfinding sharrows — will make it easier for more people to follow in his tracks.
Benefits
“Culturally, St. Charles is a bike-friendly town,” Gunderson said, noting that the community sees wide-ranging benefits, from a cleaner environment to a stronger local economy, as attractions like the Fox River Trail draw visitors to the area.
The broader community benefits are felt on a personal level, too. “I can always tell the days when I take my bike to work. I just feel a little more energized and positive in the morning — it gives me both a mental and physical boost,” Gunderson said.
Challenges
Of course, commuting by bicycle isn’t without its challenges. Running errands or picking children up after work can complicate things, and weather can throw in its own surprises.
“If you're bike-riding, the biggest challenge is working around the weather," he noted. "I’ve been caught in really bad rainstorms and gotten completely soaked on the way to the office.”
Safety
Roadway safety is another important factor — one that requires careful consideration. That’s why, when he’s not using the roadways during his commute, Gunderson turns to the Fox River Trail as a safe and beautiful place to ride.
“The Fox River Trail is amazing,” he said. “I feel really lucky to have access to it, especially on early summer mornings or those crisp spring and fall days — just being completely surrounded by nature.”
Pedal Instead: Bike to Work Week
>>Cycling is a feasible way to get to work, especially for trips less than two miles. If you live or work in St. Charles and bike to work during Bike to Work Week, May 12-18, please tag the City of St. Charles in your social media post or email the photo to ksilva@stcharlesil.gov so that we can share it on our social media channels.