Volunteer FAQ’s
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What experience do I need as a volunteer?
Our volunteers have varied backgrounds and lifestyles, but share a passion for advancing Transportation Alternatives’ mission. We encourage volunteers of all walks of life: students, young professionals, older community members, etc. All races and gender identities are welcome. Volunteers are expected to be helpful to registered cyclists and event staff, and maintain a welcoming and cheerful disposition throughout the event. If under the age of 18, volunteers must have a chaperone.
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What experience do I need as a bike marshal?
We ask that bike marshals have previously ridden in bike tours, can ride independently eyeing route markers or following Ride with GPS, and have basic bike fix skills. Your main responsibility is to asssit riders and communicate critical road information to the TA team. If you’re a female or BIPOC cyclist, and do not meet some of the requirements, we encourage you to volunteer regardless and we can help you build skills as a marshal!
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Can I ride after my volunteer spot?
Certain volunteer assignments allow you to ride the route. It depends on the timing and your volunteer location. For example, you could help check cyclists in and then depart for the 35 mile route. Please check with events@transalt.org if you would like to ride after your volunteer post.
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Is food provided for volunteers?
Yes, expect fruit, pastries, and coffee in the morning. Volunteers are welcome to all food at our fully stocked rest stops and will receive a complimentary beer or beverage at the Finish Fest!
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Do volunteers receive any perks?
Volunteers get a complimentary ‘I Bike Staten Island’ T-Shirt, which you will pick up and wear the day of the ride to identify yourself as a marshal/volunteer.
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Where is the Start and Finish Line Festival located?
The Start and Finish Festival is located at URBY Staten Island’s parking lot. Please note that your volunteer assignment may have you at a Rest Stop and not at URBY. Please be mindful of your volunteer location when making plans.
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Where are the Rest Stops located?
The rest stops will be announced closer to the event but previously have included Fresh Kills, Historic Richmondtown, Wolf’s Pond, and similar destinations. Transportation to and from the rest stop is the volunteer’s sole responsibility.
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How do I get to the Tour de Staten Island?
Staten Island Ferry: Staten Island Ferry service is the easiest way to get back and forth to the Tour de Staten Island. The start and finish line is just under one mile away from the ferry terminal.
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Are helmets required?
No. Helmets are encouraged but are not required on Transportation Alternatives' bike tours. Helmets are required by law for riders under 14.
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When will routes be available?
Full routes will be available at the marshal training. Marshals will receive cue sheets, Ride with GPS links, and GPX files. All marshals must familiarize themselves with the route in advance of the ride.
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What is the waiver and why do I need to sign it?
The waiver is a contract that may excuse or relieve a party, for injuries to a participant that arise out of the known and unknown risks in an activity. This includes the inherent risks that arise from participating in a bike tour. Please only sign the waiver if you are in good health and able to comfortably complete your volunteer responsibilities, and accept the risk associated with your position.
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What if it rains?
We ride rain or shine! In the case of inclement weather, TA reserves the right to cancel/modify the tour for safety concerns.
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Where can I park?
There is parking available at the Little Man Stapleton lot at 8 Navy Pier Court. Rates are as follows: 10 Hours - $15.00, 24 Hours - $20.00. Please check the website as rates may change. Taking public transportation is strongly encouraged.
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When and where does marshal training take place?
Marshal training will take place on Thursday, April 4th and Tuesday, April 9th from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. It will occur on Zoom, and the link will be shared a few days prior.
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Do I need to attend marshal training?
Yes, the marshal training is mandatory. If you cannot attend, you must notify TA in advance. A recording will be circulated following the training. Please make all efforts to attend live so you have a chance to ask questions, get clarity on event expectations, and meet the team of marshals.
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What supplies do marshals need to have/bring the day of the ride?
Marshals should bring tools to help fix a bike flat, and a bag to carry snacks and electrolytes. Marshals may need to pull over to help a cyclist in need, whether it be a cyclist that is showing signs of fatigue, needing route assistance, or needing help with a minor bike issue. A complete list of recommended marshal items will be provided during the marshal training. TA will also provide marshal/medical kits.
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What is the latest date to sign up to volunteer?
Please note that volunteer spots are first come first serve and we recommend signing up as early as possible to get your desired role. All marshals must sign up by April 1 and other volunteers must sign up to April 10.
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What experience do I need as a bike mechanic?
Mechanics are experienced bike technicians that can diagnose and repair basic bike issues. Bike mechanics are expected to provide their own tools. Mechanics are stationed at the Start and Finish Festival as well as designated rest stops. Depending on your post, mechanics can ride after their volunteer shift.
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If riding as a marshal, are e-bikes allowed?
Yes! Legal e-bikes, Class 1, 2, and 3, which do not exceed 25 mph are permitted on the Tour de Staten Island.
Contact us.
events@transalt.org
212-629-8080