By Morgan Ray, DVI Intern
The League of American Bicyclists sponsors National Bike Month every May. Starting in 1965, National Bike Month has worked to show the benefits of bicycling. During the month of May, people all over the country are encouraged to try bicycling, whether for fun, exercise or a source of reliable and environmentally friendly transportation.
Bicycling is a great way to get to know one’s way around #DTJax. It is easy to explore popular areas like Hemming Park, The Jacksonville Landing or the other numerous parks in the area. For those looking for groups to bike with, there are several bike organizations that coordinate loops and trails all over the city. Jacksonville is home to the North Florida Bike Club (NFBC), City Cycle in Riverside, Open Road Bicycles, as well as a few bike shops.
According to the Alliance for Biking and Walking, Jacksonville ranked 34 out of 50 of the largest cities in the U.S. with 0.4 percent of commuters biking to work. Even with that small percentage, this puts Jacksonville ahead of other large cities, such as Nashville or Dallas.
As of April, Mayor Lenny Curry is looking to boost the physical activity in #DTJax. In an effort for Jacksonville to reach number one for healthy counties in Florida, Curry’s Journey To One health initiative encourages Jacksonville residents to increase their physical health by staying active and eating well. Bicycling to work in #DTJax has only had a slight increase since 2007, but with the Journey To One initiative, this easy mode of transportation is a great way to improve health and support our city.
May 20 is National Bike to Work Day and NFBC is planning a morning bike ride through #DTJax which will end in Hemming Park for a ceremony. Check out their website for more information on getting involved!