BELLINGHAM - The public is invited to learn about the Portland, Ore., model for alternative transportation, and to discuss what it could mean for Bellingham.

The event, sponsored by Bellingham's Transportation Commission, will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, in the Rotunda Room of Whatcom Museum's Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St.

Self-proclaimed "pedestrian activist" Ellen Vanderslice will talk about how Portland has multiplied its percentage of bicycle commuters the past decade.

The city is also well-known for its walkability and public transit. For example, more than 75 percent of Portland State University students commute to campus without a car, according to The Oregonian newspaper.