Page 74 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2016

BICYCLE TRAILS Pascagoula promotes safe bicycle riding
story by Alexis Williams photos courtesy of City of Pascagoula
During May’s National Bicycle Month, the
City of Pascagoula is hoping visitors and residents will take advantage of the city’s ten- mile designated bicycle trail and stop along its twelve points of interest, including the recently restored Round Island Lighthouse.
Developed in 2012 as a way to highlight Pascagoula’s cultural assets and promote a healthy and active lifestyle, the trail has quickly become a popular spot for cyclists. According to the City’s Public Relations Specialist Anne Pitre, partnerships with local cycling clubs, in conjunction with city-sponsored special events, have helped the city earn a bicycle friendly honorable mention, which they are aiming to turn into a bronze designation.
On the second Saturday of every month, Singing River Cyclist and the city partner to sponsor an organized ride that begins at Beach Park. The ride is open to riders of all ages and fitness levels and the only requirement is that you bring your own bike and helmet. Each year, the city sponsors both Halloween and Christmas themed rides complete with costumes and decorations. The events have grown from 30 to 100 people in just a few years.
Pitre and other city leaders are hoping the upcoming Flagship Festival and Right2Ride event will increase the already growing number of cyclists on the trail. On May 22, the city will sponsor a Right2Ride race as part of a national campaign to promote bicycle safety. There will
be both an 8-mile ride and 40-mile race starting at River Park. Registration is available on-site starting at 7 a.m. The fee for 8-mile riders is $25 and 40-mile riders is $40. Both races begin at 9 a.m. People are encouraged to pre-register
through May 13th. Registration can be completed online at www.cityofpascagoula.com, at the Pascagoula Recreation Center, or onsite. Advance registration will guarantee swag bags and t-shirts, otherwise racers can only get them while supplies last.
“We feel it’s very important to promote bicycle safety,” Pitre said. “The roads are for everyone — pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. This is a way for people to have a voice for safer roads and enjoy all that Pascagoula has to offer.”
74 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • May 2016
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