By Tim Ryan
In the picturesque heart of Virginia, the City of Norfolk alongside the Downtown Norfolk Council, is thrilled to announce the celebration of the 13th Annual Norfolk Bike Month this May. An integral part of the national recognition by the League of American Bicyclists, Norfolk Bike Month celebrates the joy of biking and underscores the city’s commitment to creating a greener, more bike-friendly environment.
The month-long festivity starts with the 5th Annual Norfolk Bike Expo on May 1st at Slover Library. This event, hosted by Hampton Roads Transit’s TRAFFIX, promises an evening where biking enthusiasts and novices can gather vital information, interact with various vendors, and indulge in various biking swag and informative calendars.
National Bike to Work Week, scheduled for May 13-17, further energizes the city’s streets. We’re calling on all Norfolk workers to re-envision their daily commute by pedaling through the city’s robust bike infrastructure. The week caps off with the exciting Bike to Work Day on May 17 from 7 AM to 9 AM, where cyclists can visit multiple pit stops across the city, enjoying refreshments and exclusive giveaways.
The glowing highlight of the month is undoubtedly the Glow Ride VIII. This nocturnal adventure starts from The Plot in the NEON District at 8:30 PM. Cyclists are encouraged to don glow-in-the-dark attire and light up the night with flashing bike gear. The event promises a spectacular 5-mile ride through the vibrant heart of downtown, celebrating community and cycling culture in a luminous display.
Norfolk’s recognition as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists is a testament to the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance biking conditions. This prestigious award applauds the city’s pro-bike policies, community bike events, and infrastructural improvements that foster a welcoming environment for all bikers.
The Downtown Norfolk Council (DNC) continues to be a pivotal force in supporting the biking community. From promoting local and state advocacy efforts to incorporating bicycle-powered tools within their operations, DNC’s commitment to a bike-friendly downtown is unwavering. This year, DNC’s Public Service Ambassadors have also reintroduced mobile bike kiosks to enhance their service reach and visibility across the 50-block service area.
Sponsored by Lime and organized in collaboration with numerous community partners like Hampton Roads Transit and the Elizabeth River Trail, Norfolk Bike Month stands as a beacon of community spirit and environmental stewardship. We invite everyone to join in the celebration, share their experiences with #nfkbikemonth, and explore the various biking activities detailed at DowntownNorfolk.org.
This May, pedal into a brighter, more connected Norfolk. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious newcomer, Norfolk Bike Month offers something exciting for everyone. Let’s ride together into a sustainable future.
A copy of the press release can be downloaded here.
