OKC Celebrates National Bike Month This May
Oklahoma City is gearing up for an exciting National Bike Month this May, inviting residents of all ages to engage in a series of fun and educational cycling activities. From community festivals to organized commutes, the city is highlighting the many benefits of getting around on two wheels and utilizing its expanding network of bike lanes and trails.
May is National Bike Month in OKC
With May bringing ideal weather conditions, it’s the perfect time for the community to explore and enjoy Oklahoma City’s extensive bike lanes and scenic trails. According to Justin Henry, Oklahoma City’s Transportation Planner, “May weather brings a great opportunity for our community to enjoy our bike lanes and trails around the city.” The month-long celebration aims to foster a stronger cycling culture and promote active transportation.
Kick Off with Bike Fest
Celebrate Cycling at Wheeler Park
The celebrations begin early with Bike Fest on May 4th. This free event is open to cyclists of all ages and focuses on the numerous benefits of cycling, from health to environmental impact. Join the festivities from noon to 3 p.m. at Wheeler Park, located at 1120 S. Western Ave, for an afternoon dedicated to all things bikes.
Promoting Safe Routes to School
National Bike and Roll to School Day
On May 7th, families are encouraged to participate in National Bike and Roll to School Day. The city actively supports this initiative by continuously improving its cycling infrastructure, which prioritizes safe sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes. This makes it easier and safer for children and parents to bike or roll to school together, promoting healthy habits from a young age.
Join the Commute on Bike to Work Day
Group Rides Across the City
Cap off the month by participating in Bike to Work Day on May 16th. Whether you prefer to ride solo or join a group, this is a fantastic opportunity to experience commuting by bike. Several group rides are organized from various locations, all heading to Bicentennial Park (201 N. Walker Ave.) to enjoy fresh air and coffee from 7:30 to 9 a.m.
| Starting Location | Meeting Time | Led By |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest City Library, 8143 E. Reno Ave. | 6:30 a.m. | BikeOklahoma |
| Capitol Hill, 2420 S. Robinson Ave. | 7:30 a.m. | Capitol Co-Op |
| Stars and Stripes Park, 3701 S. Lake Hefner Dr. | 7:00 a.m. | Celestial Cycles |
| Science Museum Oklahoma parking lot, 2020 Remington Pl. | 7:15 a.m. | Mayor Taylor Cycling Club |
| Mesta Park, 1900 N. Shartel Ave. | 7:30 a.m. | RideOKC |
| Plaza District, 1759 NW 16th St. | 7:30 a.m. | City of OKC |
Expanding OKC’s Cycling Infrastructure
Oklahoma City’s commitment to cycling extends beyond monthly events. New facilities, such as the Deep Fork Trail, and ongoing additions of bike lanes through MAPS 4 initiatives are connecting more residents than ever to the city’s cycling network. Justin Henry emphasizes the communal aspect, stating, “Group activities like Bike to Work Day and BikeFest are great opportunities for those new to cycling to meet and ride with more experienced cyclists.” These continuous improvements ensure that cycling becomes a more accessible and integrated part of daily life for OKC residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is National Bike Month?
It’s a month-long celebration in May encouraging people to bike, highlighting the benefits of cycling for health, environment, and transportation. - When and where is Bike Fest?
Bike Fest is on May 4th, from noon to 3 p.m. at Wheeler Park, 1120 S. Western Ave. - What is National Bike and Roll to School Day?
It’s an event on May 7th, encouraging families and children to bike or “roll” (e.g., scooter) to school to promote active living and road safety. - How can I participate in Bike to Work Day?
Bike to Work Day is May 16th. You can ride solo or join one of several organized group rides starting from various locations across the city, all concluding at Bicentennial Park. - Where can I find information on bike lane safety in OKC?
For more details on bike lane safety and local cycling information, visit OKC.gov.
As Oklahoma City embraces National Bike Month, remember that safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and look out for one another. For comprehensive bike lane safety information and resources, visit OKC.gov.
OKC Celebrates National Bike Month This May
