Nanaimo envisions becoming a more cycle-friendly community, and that means we can always use a few more friendly cyclists.
With that in mind, it’s time to pump up the tires, clip on the baskets and panniers and get prepared to pedal for GoByBike Week. The campaign starts with a kick-off event this coming weekend and finishes at the Pride Parade the following weekend.
The City of Nanaimo is supporting events and GoByBike ‘celebration stations’ along cycle commuting routes throughout the week and wants residents of all ages and cycling skill levels to join the celebration of active transportation. Whether they’re biking to work, school, running errands or just for fun, every pedal stroke counts toward a healthier, more sustainable city.
“This week is about more than just commuting. It’s about building habits that are good for our health, the environment and our city. We encourage everyone to register, ride and experience Nanaimo by bike,” said Madeleine Koch, the city’s active transportation project specialist, in a press release.
GoByBike week is a province-led initiative and participation is free by registering at www.gobybikebc.ca. Registered riders have the chance to win prizes while reducing emissions, saving on fuel and discovering new routes through celebration stations and special events. Ride to a favourite park, local business, or to the Pride Parade. Go solo, join a team, or get coworkers rolling together, and don’t forget to log kilometres at www.gobybikebc.ca/nanaimo to enter prize draws.
The launch party at Maffeo Sutton Park on Saturday, May 31, from 2-6 p.m. will feature music, community booths, bike checkups and giveaways, and on June 7, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., there will be a wrap-up celebration and charity bike ride at Maffeo Sutton Park.
Throughout the week, celebration stations hosted by local sponsors will pop up across the city, for riders to pull in at and fuel up with coffee, snacks and good vibes.
Celebration stations will be set up Sunday, June 1, Westwood Lake Park, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Monday, June 2, Metral Drive and Mostar Road, 7-9:30 a.m.; Tuesday, June 3, Boxwood Road and Bowen Road, 9-11 a.m.; Wednesday, June 4, Giggleswick Place, 7-9:30 a.m.; Thursday, June 5, Front Street and Museum Way, 4-6 p.m.; Friday, June 6, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital parking lot, 6:45-9 a.m. For a map of celebration stations, click here.
