Runs:  June 22, 29 & Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, 2008

BICYCLE SUNDAYS ARE BACK -- AND BETTER THAN EVER!

The ever-popular Bicycle Sundays will be here soon -- and this time joggers and walkers and those with strollers are welcome to join the fun on the Bronx River Parkway.

County Executive Andy Spano said the 34-year-old program -- previously just for those on bikes, scooters or skates -- is being expanded. The change comes in response to requests from walkers, joggers and families with children of varying ages and abilities (some of whom may be too young to ride bikes and are confined to strollers).

“Bicycle Sundays isn’t just for bicyclists anymore,” Spano said. “Now, no one has to stay home and ‘babysit’ the younger child. The whole family -- from the youngest to the oldest -- can get out on the parkway and enjoy this great recreational activity together.”

The dates for Bicycle Sundays 2008 are May 4, 11, and 18; June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; and September 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Bicycle Sundays course begins at the Westchester County Center in White Plains and runs south to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers, a round-trip of 13.1 miles. There are many points of entry and exit along the way.

 During Bicycle Sundays a portion of the Bronx River Parkway is closed to cars. To ensure a smooth transition and to safely accommodate new users, Spano asked that all participants familiarize themselves with the rules -- some new, some old -- for Bicycle Sundays prior to using the parkway.

“Following rules such as slower traffic to the right and faster traffic to the left, along with staying alert and being considerate of others, will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone,” Spano said.

Participation in Bicycle Sundays is free, with there being various places near to the parkway to gain access. Parking is available at the County Center lot in White Plains for a fee of $4.

Special events include the presentation of awards for this year’s Bicycle Safety poster contest on opening day May 4, which was open to all grammar school children in grades 3 to 5 in Westchester County. The Pediatric Children’s Cancer Bikeathon will run in conjunction with Bicycle Sundays on May 18. 

In the event of rain, Bicycle Sundays will be cancelled. For rain cancellation information, call the County Center at (914) 995-4050 or go to www.westchestergov.com/parks.

Bicycle Sundays is presented by Westchester County Parks. Exclusive media sponsor is 100.7 WHUD Radio.

In accordance with New York State law, all bicyclists and skaters under age 14 are required to wear a helmet, even those riding in bike trailers, and children under age one are not permitted on bicycles or on a separate seat attached to bicycles.

 (Click here for a complete list of rules for Bicycle Sundays.) *pdf

Bicycle Sundays is part of Be Fit Westchester, a county-wide effort to get people to eat smarter and play harder every day. To join Be Fit, call (914) 864-7144 or log on to www.westchestergov.com/fitness.

For more information, call the county parks department at (914) 864-PARK.