Norwalk To Celebrate National Bike Month This May

NORWALK, CT – May is National Bike Month, an annual observance organized by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated locally in Norwalk. With this in mind, Mayor Harry Rilling and members of the Norwalk Bike/Walk Commission encourage residents to try cycling for fun, fitness or transportation this spring.

"This month is a great opportunity to bring awareness to biking in Norwalk and the resources locally available," Mayor Rilling said in a press release. "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."

The Norwalk Kiwanis Club is holding its biennial Bicycle Rodeo at 370 West Avenue on Saturday, May 4 at 10 a.m. 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," Nancy Rosett, Chair of the Bike/Walk Commission, said in a press release.

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.

Additionally, the city has provided some tips to help residents enjoy biking more:

• Always wear a helmet to protect your head in the event of a crash; if you are under 16, it is the law
• Have your bike checked over by your local bike shop
• Obey all stop signs, traffic lights, and lane markings
• Ride in the right-most lane that goes in the direction that you are travelling
• Look before you change lanes or signal a turn; indicate your intention, then act
• 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. Bike to Work Day is Friday, 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," Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists Bill Nesper said in a press release.

For more information on the Norwalk Bike/Walk Commission, visit norwalkct.org/bikewalk.

Contributed press release.