A bold, intriguing experiment takes place in town this month. As part of Bike Fest 2010, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 18, five miles of city streets will become off-limits to motor vehicles.
It’s Cyclovia Tucson, and it’s all about fun. Along this temporarily car-free boulevard on 4th Avenue, East Seneca Street, Mountain Avenue and University Boulevard, pedestrians and bicyclists can look forward to games, classes, dancing, raffles, live music and tons of healthy activities.
Thanks to title sponsor Tucson Medical Center and countless dedicated volunteers, activity centers will be set up at Mansfield Park, Maynard’s Market, Catalina Park, Main Gate Square and all throughout the Cyclovia route. Starr Skates will have ramps. The YMCA will put out a climbing wall.
Ann Chanecka of Pima Association of Governments, a Cyclovia Tucson sponsor, says, “We’re hoping to appeal to Tucsonans who don’t necessarily consider themselves athletes: moms with strollers, young kids who like to be outside and elderly populations who want to enjoy the streets.”
“Cyclovia has been supremely successful in cities around the world,” says Daniela Diamante of El Grupo Cycling. “We’re thrilled to get Tucson involved in the movement.”
Visit CycloviaTucson.org for more information.
Several other exciting bike events are scheduled for the weeks leading up to Cyclovia. Do you like free stuff? Xoom Juice, Sunflower Farmers Market, Time Market and The Cereal Boxx are among businesses offering giveaways and incentives for bicyclists during Bike 2 Work Week, April 5-9. Check Dot.Ci.Tucson.Az.Us/BikeFest for a complete schedule of Bike Commuter Stations providing free breakfasts, water bottles and more.
On April 17, enjoy free admission to Reid Park Zoo from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by showing your helmet. And all month, join the Bike Commuter Challenge by registering at Dot.TucsonAZ.gov/bikefest/challenge.php.
Remember: urban bicycling is dangerous. Cyclists always lose in collisions with cars. “Be seen and be aware,” advises Chanecka. She also says the free bicycle safety classes sponsored by Pima County and the City of Tucson are “worth every minute of your time.” Call 243-BIKE for details.
Ride on!
