Today's column spotlights the new "Cycling on Sanibel" safety photo and invites you to participate in two upcoming transportation planning public workshops.
Want to learn about biking on Sanibel and bike safety? A new video tackles both topics, in an easy and breezy fashion.
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| Photo by News-Press |
It's a hometown effort, with local talent, production and (always important) sponsors.
There are links to the vide on the bike club's website and the city website (www.mysanibel.com). You can also find it on YouTube. Take a look:
Input needed
Most people who enjoy riding and running don't necessarily enjoy going to meetings. However, sometimes it takes participating in one to enjoy the other — and that is the case with to upcoming public workshops.
First, on Tuesday, the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization is asking for public input on its 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan. Its goal is to lay out the steps necessary to meet our area's transportation needs (for all forms, including driving, walking, biking, public transportation and freight movement) through 2040 — an ambitious effort, but one well worth spending some time with.
The workshop runs 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the North Fort Myers Library, 2001 North Tamiami Trail. More information on the plan can be found at 2040transportationplan.leempo.com.
A week later on June 23, the Florida Dept. of Transportation will be asking for your ideas and input at a public visioning workshop. Southwest Florida has been left out of such input efforts in the past, so it's crucial to have a good turnout to show FDOT officials we want to have a say in our transportation future.
As with the MPO session, all modes of transportation are up for discussion. You can present your ideas and react to those developed by the planning steering committee and advisory groups.
The session will be held 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the new LeeTran office, 3401 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers. Information is online at http://www.floridatransportationplan.com/.
Hot enough?
In case you hadn't noticed (which means you need to get out more), summer has arrived with a vengeance in Southwest Florida. Just because the heat is on doesn't mean riders, runners and others need to stay inside. All of us should be reminded of a few easy ways to make time outdoors more bearable (and less dangerous):
Stay hydrated: Start with a drink, end with a drink, and keep sipping all through your ride, run or walk.
Wear light-colored, breathable clothes: Not only will this attire help you keep cool, but it'll also help you be seen.
Go early or late: Avoid the mid-day sun when it's hottest.
Consider your route: Look for shade or at least breaks from direct sun, and have distance options while you're getting used to the summer temps.
Don't forget the sunscreen or other forms of protection: Your skin will thank you later.
Ready to ride or run?
Run — Become part of the oldest running group around, by taking part in the Fort Myers Track Club's Summer Fun Runs which kick off Thursday and alternate between Thursday and Tuesdays every other week throughout the summer. Check out www.ftmyerstrackclub.com for details. Good tune-up for the summer 5Ks such as the Sugden Stride 5K on June 20 in Naples — details at www.eliteevents.com.
Ride — You missed the June Critical Mass ride last week, so mark your calendars for the next one on July 3, massing near the downtown Publix.
Both — If you're an adult, it's not too late to sign up for the Galloway Captiva Tri… but don't delay as the remaining slots are going fast. (Age 13 or less? Sorry but the three kids' events are sold out.) Registration link and information at www.captivatri.org.
BikeWalkLee is a community coalition raising public awareness and advocating for complete streets in Lee County—streets that are designed, built, operated and maintained for safe and convenient travel for all users: pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Information, statistics and background online at www.BikeWalkLee.org.
Get involved
•Want to support the "6ft Flag" Safety Movement - Bike Lights Campaign, a grassroots movement to help improve the safety of cyclists in Southwest Florida? Go to http://www.gofundme.com/SWFL6ftflag_lights for details and to donate.
•Have a favorite route you like to bike, or a unique walk you'd like to share with others? Tell us about it at info@bikewalklee.org, and maybe we can feature it in an upcoming column.
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