People emPOWERing Princeton: Will
In a bustling town like Princeton, where navigating traffic and finding parking can be a daily struggle, some residents are choosing a different path—literally. Meet Will, a local entrepreneur, and bartender at Conte’s Pizza and Graduate Hotel who has opted out of the traditional car-centric lifestyle in favor of more cost-effective and sustainable modes of transportation. For Will, it’s not just about saving money; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that blends fitness and practicality.
Electric Skateboard
Will’s journey into alternative transportation began with an electric skateboard, a nod to his days in San Francisco where he first started skating. He found his Evolve skateboard on Facebook Marketplace from a high schooler who was no longer using it. The board zips along effortlessly climbing hills that would leave traditional skateboards in the dust. While it’s a sleek ride on smooth roads, Will notes that its battery life has diminished over time, limiting its range to less than the promised 30 miles. And once it dies it is HEAVY so Will decided to get another more reliable mode of transportation, a bike!
Bike: Cannondale Charm
Always keeping finance in mind, Will scored a Cannondale bike also through Facebook Marketplace after weeks of patient searching. In the past, he had a Cannondale bike and he knew he wanted something similar to ride here. Unlike the skateboard, the bike offers more versatility and reliability for his daily commute. Concerned by how close the cars get to him, Will often chooses routes less traveled, “Even if it takes me longer to where I need to go”, he said, he feels safer on the back roads.
Public Transportation
Despite his preference for biking and skating, Will isn’t opposed to using public transportation when needed. Tiger Transit and NJ Transit are his go-to options to assist in getting around and out of town. However, he’s had his share of challenges, like the time there wasn’t enough space on the train for his bike, forcing him to leave it at the station—a reminder of the infrastructure improvements needed to accommodate Princeton’s growing community of cyclists and commuters.
Infrastructure Hopes
For Will, the dream isn’t just personal; it’s about envisioning a Princeton that’s safer and more accessible for cyclists and skateboarders alike. He advocates for dedicated bike lanes to replace the current shared lanes. The lack of bike racks and sheltered parking spots also pose challenges, leading him to park in unconventional places at times. Will shared, “It would be nice if there were more covered bike racks, and even when it comes to shade the sun does damage on the bike and I would like to keep it nice” As Princeton continues to expand, Will emphasizes the urgency of these infrastructure improvements to support a community of alternative commuters.
Advice to Others
Reflecting on his journey, Will offers practical advice to those considering ditching their cars for bikes or skateboards. He encourages newcomers to explore their surroundings on foot initially, mapping out bike-friendly routes and ensuring they would feel safe riding there. Another tip he shared is, “Make sure you have a helmet and get a decent quality bike since there are hills you will want to have gears on the bike”. By embracing bikes and skateboards, he’s not just reducing his carbon footprint; he’s forging a path toward a more connected and Sustainable Princeton.
Take Action
- Keep cyclists safe while diving by slowing down, moving over, and passing with care. Drivers must allow at-least a 4-foot safety zone when they pass.
- Report dangerous driving to the NJ State Police by dialing #77
- Get involved with the Pedestrian & Bicycle Advisory Committee who provides research and advice to Council on matters relating to policies and facilities which promote and enhance the safety, comfort, and convenience of bicyclists, pedestrians, and other users of micro-mobility.
- Learn more about bike boulevards in Princeton, smart growth and 15-minute neighborhoods.
Attend eCommuter Fest
Sustainable Princeton’s famous low-carbon commuting festival is returning to the Princeton Shopping Center on Saturday, September 7th, 2024 from 11 AM to 3 PM to learn more about walking, bike safety, and public transportation options in Princeton. Learn more!
