Because of Austin's rapid growth, the city’s traffic woes aren't going to be fixed anytime soon. Gridlock has become part of drivers' daily routines. The Austin Cycling Association (ACA), however, wants to change what's become an attitude of defeat and invites Austinites to take control of their personal commutes with Bike to Work Day on May 17.

Bike to Work Day is a citywide event organized by ACA to entice more locals to ride to work rather than of drive. To spread the message, the organization will host commuter bike stations across the city in both the morning and late afternoon. These happy hour hubs will provide food, drink and live tunes to amp people up about biking to and fro.

New for Bike to Work Day this year is a handy and stylish canvas messenger bag stuffed with free swag to further entice folks to commute on two wheels, toting along their laptops and paperwork. The ACA also sees it as a special thank you to anyone looking to improve Austin traffic issues and the environment.

The cycling pros at ACA will also host escorted rides along planned routes for intimidated cycling newbies. Be sure to bring a helmet and some bike lights if you can, because ACA also believes in the importance of bike safety.

Not only could biking to work unclog our crowded roadways with less cars and reduce carbon footprints, it also promotes a healthier you by boosting your mood for the workday. An exhilarating bike ride is more fun than trying to suppress road rage during rush hour.

Bike to Work Day is also seeking volunteers to run their stations, so feel free to sign up online. Otherwise, dust off those bikes off in the garage, pump the tires back up, and don’t forget your helmet.