This past Sunday at 12:30 over 500 riders of all ages cycled Beacon Street beginning at Amory Park to Cleveland Circle and back to Amory via Audubon Circle. The purpose of this fun ride was to promote cycling in Brookline and to celebrate the conclusion of the Beacon Street construction projects.
As a member of the town bicycling advisory committee, and an avid cyclist, I had the pleasure of planning of this ride. The mass of cyclists riding slowly, confidently and cheerfully up Beacon street was a welcome and quite extraordinary site to behold.
Along the way I overheard lots of rider’s comments:
“We need to close off Beacon Street, just like Memorial Drive. More people will get out and ride who ordinarily don’t.”
“Many people don’t bike because they are afraid.”
“This is amazing, riding on Beacon without cars!”
Yes – I agreed, as I carefully considered the comments of the crowd. For one thing, it certainly would make history to close off Beacon, or a section of it, (Like Memorial Drive) for cyclists on Sundays during the spring and summer months.
I also considered the idea that biking is becoming more popular in the recent years. Now since the price of gas is at an all time high, and environmental issues are critical to our future, perhaps more people will consider cycling as viable option for transportation and health and fitness.
I encourage you to ride for the sheer fun and joy if not for any other reason. When I ride, I feel like a kid again!
