May is National Bike Month, an annual observance organized by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated locally in Norwalk. This spring, Mayor Harry Rilling and members of the Norwalk Bike/Walk Commission encourage the public to try cycling for fun, fitness, or transportation.
“This month is a great opportunity to bring awareness to biking in Norwalk and the resources locally available,” said Mayor Rilling. “We work hard to ensure cyclists can ride safely throughout Norwalk on dedicated bike lanes and with proper signage and markings. Norwalk is a bicycling-friendly community for people of all ages.”
On Saturday, May 4 at 10 a.m., the Norwalk Kiwanis Club is holding its biennial Bicycle Rodeo at 370 West Avenue. This family-friendly event is open to the public, and every young person who attends will receive a free bike helmet that will be fitted specifically for them. The Bicycle Rodeo also includes bike safety checks and riding lessons. The Norwalk Bike/Walk Commission will be on-hand providing education and information to the public.
“We welcome the opportunity to once again partner with the Norwalk Kiwanis Club to further our mission of promoting public awareness and education for bicyclists in Norwalk,” said Nancy Rosett, Chair of the Bike/Walk Commission.
The public is encouraged to help make Norwalk's roads safer for everyone by completing a do-it-yourself Pedestrian Infrastructure Audit. The forms look at the conditions of sidewalks, streets, and uses, and includes questions on bike lanes and paths. The form, as well as maps of bike routes in Norwalk, can be found at norwalkct.org/bikewalk.
- Have your bike checked over by your local bike shop;
- Always wear a helmet to protect your head in the event of a crash, and if you are under 16 it is the law;
- Ride in the right-most lane that goes in the direction that you are travelling;
- Obey all stop signs, traffic lights, and lane markings;
- Look before you change lanes or signal a turn; indicate your intention, then act, and;
- Be visible and predictable at all times; wear bright clothing and signal turns.
As part of National Bike Month, National Bike to Work Week is May 13–19, with Bike to Work Day on May 17.
“Biking to work is an efficient and fun way to get the exercise you need, without having to find extra time to work out,” said Bill Nesper, Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists.
For more information on the Norwalk Bike/Walk Commission, visit norwalkct.org/bikewalk.