Planning for the Mayor’s Ride
People of the bicycle,
At our last BASC meeting, there was some discussion about planning for the mayor’s ride in May. Some suggested that this should become an all inclusive Bike/Ped event where not only cyclists are involved, but also pedestrians and runners – promoting a healthy, livable Huntsville. City members of the committee are wary of this and are discouraging the idea. I suggested that if we got a reasonable plan together and presented it to them, perhaps the city could reconsider.
So, let’s brainstorm. Does anyone have suggestions? Is it feasible? Logistically, how can we have a route for bicycles AND pedestrians? What attractions can take place that will bring more people out? What about a rain date? What can be done to ease the fears of the city regarding this event? If the city will block off the downtown streets for an entire day, I envision a car free day like other city’s have successfully done.
Let’s get creative! Please post your comments below.
Subject: Mayors Ride
- Here are a few thoughts on this, I think inviting runners is great but keeping it as a Bike / Ped event will maybe appease the fearful. Feel free to expand,contract or argue.
Why and How to expand the Mayors ride to include walkers.
- I think wheelchair access should be included to consider Disabled Vets.
- It brings cyclist and motorist together. This is a much more effective way of educating both sides through understanding the issues and that we are all part of this community.
- Does not look like others are left out and favoritism is played to cyclists
- The ride is downtown and cyclists could start first led by the mayor and walkers start after on a shorter course maybe 1 mile or less. Maybe Bill Kling and the other council members could lead this.
- Downtown is still closed off and there are Police and crews already there, so it would not be any additional costs.
- We should consider starting it in the Big Spring Park if possible.
- We could also get National Attention for this via the Press and other Cycling and Ped friendly publications
- Considering that Huntsville is the 2nd most deadly city in Alabama for pedestrians this seems like a winner for everyone involved.
- This would be a great event for our council people and city workers to have a day encouraged by our Mayor to get out and walk or ride your bike for a Healthier Huntsville!
- I think if we first keep it simple and utilize the existing route and just make a short circle for the walkers city officials might see that this really is not much more involved than the Mayor’s Ride.
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