May 2020

May is Still Bike Month

This is a Bike Month like no other.  Normally by now we would have kicked off Bike Month by having the Mall to Hall Ride from Manchester Center to Downtown Fresno with official proclamations by locally elected officials.  We would have also just wrapped up Bike to Work Day with energy stations and a Corporate Challenge.  Instead, cyclists are being encouraged to get around in a socially responsible manner for commuting and recreation all month long.  FCBC collaborated with the Downtown Fresno Partnership for discounts at Downtown restaurants and held a virtual bike mixer and prize drawings on May 14, which was the original date of Bike to Work Day.  As previously announced, Bike to Work Day is now scheduled to coincide with World Carfree Day on Tuesday, September 22, 2020.

Bicycle shops and large retailers are reporting brisk sales of bicycles as homebound residents look at ways to get out and be active without going to the gym or traveling out of town.  This is evident by the visibly increased number of people on the area trails.

Ride of Silence on May 20

The annual Ride of Silence will still go on this month and will be held on Wednesday, May 20.  The ride of silence is an international event that commemorates those who have been injured or killed while riding a bicycle.  This year the local ride will start from The Bike Shop @ Woodward, located at Friant and Fort Washington Roads, where cyclists will meet up at 6:30 pm and then ride off at 7:00 pm.  The route is 7.7 miles and is to be totally silent, and social distancing will be practiced.  Cyclists may also ride the route at any time during that day rather than with the group.  

More information can be found here.

Slow Streets Movement

Cities across the country are closing low-traffic streets to allow safe physical activity with social distancing.  These soft closure prohibit through traffic but allow residents, delivery drivers, and emergency vehicles to reach their final destinations.  Slow streets differ from open streets events in that they discourage gatherings.  They provide room for people to ride bikes, walk, and jog.  Some cities, including Seattle, will be making these street closures permanent.  So far, there is no slow streets program within Fresno County.  Those interested in having slow streets locally should make their voices heard to their local officials.

(Source:  City of Oakland)

Fresno County Regional Trails Plan

The Fresno County Regional Trails Plan Advisory Group is seeking input on the future trails plan.  Help shape where and when future trails will be built. 

Comments can be made on an online map located here until June 1.

Next Board Meeting

The next Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 21 at 7:30 pm via Zoom.  FCBC activities for the remainder of the year will be discussed.  Everyone is welcome to join the web conference.  If you would like to participate, please send an email to info@fresnobike.org, and the login information and call-in number will be sent to you.

Have a comment or suggestion?  Contact us at info@fresnobike.org