Member Feature: Meet Maria Geonczy

Maria is an active member of Bike East Bay as a monthly supporter and bike valet attendant! We asked Maria a few questions about riding in the East Bay.

How did you get involved with Bike East Bay?

When I lived in Atlanta after college, I started biking to work and became involved with the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition (now Propel ATL). Through them, I became connected to my city, found community, and learned more about bike accessibility.

When my partner and I moved to the East Bay two years ago, I wanted to find something similar. Both Bike Walk Alameda & Bike East Bay have helped me get acquainted with this area, meet amazing people, and I even got hired to do bike valet! 

What’s your favorite place to ride in the East Bay?

I love riding along Mandela Parkway’s bike/walk route to get to the Ballers’ games at Raimondi Park. I’m also like using the Cross Alameda Trail to visit my mom! Both routes are a respite from riding streets filled with cars and urban debris.

 The Slow Streets in Alameda have been essential for bike rides to Park Street where we can ride with our dog and be less stressed out by cars.

What do you love most about bikes?

Biking is a mode of transportation that empowers me: I’m proud to know that I can get myself from one point to another. Also, when my bike has an issue, it’s easier and more affordable to fix than a car.

What do you hope to see for biking in the East Bay?

I would love to see readily available bike connectivity between West Alameda and Oakland. Even with the water shuttle and ferry, public transportation from Alameda to Oakland is not frequent enough for a bike/bus combo to access Oakland.

As a driver, you don’t have to think twice about going places other than maybe avoiding rush hour. As a WestAlameda bicycle commuter, I either have to plan ahead (timing usually never works out) or take the Posey Tube which is always tricky and tiring.

Why should others join as a Bike East Bay member?

Becoming a member connects you to bicycle resources and a welcoming community, meanwhile supporting an organization that advocates for all cyclists of the East Bay.

Besides biking, any other hobbies?

I enjoy birdwatching, gardening, and learning about California’s native plants. I also love learning about the Bay Area through local trails, tours, books and podcasts!