Monday, June 24, 2019

June 24: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:

Cycling:
  • June 24-28: Wheel Lee Fun Session 3 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Monday, June 24: Monday Minions Ride. This is a weekly ride that rolls in the 13-15 mph range. Total distance around 15 miles. After the ride most go over to Square 1 restaurant for the $5 burger and fries deal. If you are looking to get into cycling beyond the casual roll, this is an ideal ride for you. 6 p.m., Fort Myers Cyclery, 3630 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Tuesday, June 25: Taco Tuesday Ride. Every Tuesday night, We Ride For Tacos! After a 21 mile ride on Treeline/Old Airport/Daniels/6 Mile Cypress roads and paths, we'll finish at Tijuana Flats for Taco Tuesday. B RIDERS: 16 to 18 mph for the basic group. A RIDERS: The faster group rides at 20mph plus. We finish well after dark, so Front And Rear Lights are Required. 6:30 p.m., Trek Bicycle Store of Fort Myers, 8291 Dani Drive, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Friday, June 28: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7:30 p.m., start at 8 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • Saturday, June 29: Saturday Morning Slow Roll and Training. Are you new to group riding, or want enjoy riding through town and the neighborhoods surrounding the Edison home? Join us for a casual 8-10 mph roll on the last Saturday of every month. A very family friendly ride. The ride is 6 miles long in total. Grab your bike and helmet, come and ride! Meet up in the usual side lot next to Publix. Meet up 8 a.m., roll 8:15 a.m.  (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • Sunday, June 30: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. This is a weekly ride for riders of most skill levels and most types of bicycles (hybrids, fitness, and road). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, thus helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. 7.30 a.m., location varies, visit (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL) for details.
  • July 8-12: Wheel Lee Fun Session 4 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Saturday-Sunday, July 13-14: Wheels & Wings, 15/32/50/62 mile rides from Beef O’Bradys, Punta Gorda (peaceriverridersbicycleclub.com
  • July 15-19: Wheel Lee Fun Session 5 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • July 22-26: Wheel Lee Fun Session 6 (final session) summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:
  • Sunday, Aug. 4: Siesta Sprint Triathlon/Duathlon (trifind.com
  • Monday, Sept. 2: Venice Sprint Tri, Sharky’s on the Pier, Venice (trifind.com)
  • Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 7-8: Galloway Captiva Tri. Sprint on Saturday, kids’ events Sunday (www.gearedup.biz)
  • Saturday, Sept. 21: The Original Siesta Key Tri, sprint (runsignup.com)
  • Sunday, Nov. 17: Longboat Key Sprint/Olympic Triathlon and Duathlon and 5K (imathlete.com)
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.









Thursday, June 20, 2019

BikeWalkLee: Hot fun in the summertime

BikeWalkLee Column
The News-Press, June 20, 2019
by Ken Gooderham


It’s a great time of year to be on your bike. But then, any time of year is a great time of year to ride.

But there’s something about cycling in the summer – less traffic, more daylight – that’s especially enjoyable. You can get out early before the heat of the day kicks in, or head out late after work or after the regularly scheduled thunderstorm.

Heat and humidity, you say? Of course, it’s Southwest Florida after all. You don’t spend the steamier half of the year here (May-October) unless you’re up for a little hot, wet weather. But the typical temps of a Southwest Florida summer don’t have to chase you inside, not if you plan ahead and prepare yourself for the climate.

The first step is to acclimatize yourself, getting ready for the heat by staying on the road as the temperatures rise. You can’t spend May and June sitting in front of an air conditioner and expect to be able to handle the furnace blast that is July… your body simply isn’t able to cope. But if you keep riding as the thermometer keeps rising, you’re going to be able to cope with heat better.

Not that you always need to… that’s the next step. Hit the roads or trails when it’s not so hot – before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m., let’s say – and you’ll keep yourself more comfortable while still having enough time for a decent ride.

Choosing your route can also help, looking for paths or roads that offer some shade along the way. Even a momentary respite from direct sunlight can make a difference to your comfort level… as can a reasonable breeze, nature’s own air conditioning. Know which way the wind is blowing and (if possible) plan your route accordingly.

Next? Be aware of what you wear, opting for light, bright and quick-drying to keep you cooler and more visible. Leave the dark cotton T-shirts in the drawer and look for materials that wick moisture (meaning sweat) away and can dry pretty quickly. It is summertime, so you may need to include something to keep the rain off if you pedal into an inadvertent downpour (unless you don’t mind a little warm rainfall).

One last step to keep you cool(er): If you can’t avoid it, prepare for the sun by protecting your skin. Apply sunscreen enthusiastically and appropriately (remembering those body parts such as legs and arms that are more exposed during a typical ride). The other option is to cover up, looking at some of the outdoors gear that’s made to wick and reflect heat. Everyone has their own preferences… the key is to protect your skin in the best way you can that works for you.

Photo: cyclingmagazine.ca
Now we come to the most essential part of hot-weather cycling: Hydration. Ultimately, it’s the key to keeping your cool during summer cycling.

You should have two goals here: Cooling off and replacing what’s lost during exercise. For the former, have a two-stage plan – one bottle of cold liquid to drink first, another frozen to still be cold when you need to switch them out. For the latter, include a sports drink (for the sodium, minerals and carbs) in the hydration mix… how much you’ll need depends on how long you ride (and how much you sweat).

Don’t let the heat and humidity drive you inside. Take some time to plan and prepare, and you’ll be ready (and able) to ride all summer long.

Ride leader training ahead

Want to take your cycling skills to a new level? An upcoming class can get you certified as a ride leader, while honing your cycling skills to boot.

The training, offered by the Florida Bicycle Association, will be this Saturday, June 22, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research. Topics include:
  • Bike safety, Florida Bicycle and Pedestrian laws and cyclist rights on the road.
  • Preparation, from bodies to bikes, helmet fitting and nutrition.
  • Communication, from hand signals to how to give great pre-ride tutorials, on-the-ride coaching and how to brand your club or organization through cycling professionalism.
  • Coaching and Mentoring skills to develop stronger, safer cyclist in your club or organization.
  • Advanced cycling skills for 17+ mph group rides like paceline etiquette and how to control skill with speed.
  • Accident and rider-down tips and preparation.
  • Community and family ride leader skills.

This Ride Leader / Ride Marshal training and certification program is modular in approach, to allow registrants the opportunity to choose the modules that are most relevant for their needs and ride leader development.

Cost is $20 for FBA members, $35 for non-members. You must register in advance (and ASAP) at floridabicycle.org.

Ready to ride or run? 

Run? Just one 5K this weekend, the Sugden Stride 5K at North Collier Regional Park (runeliteevents.com). But with July 4 on the horizon, there will be three 5K to choose from: Freedom 5K on the Cape Coral Bridge (ftmyerstrackclub.com); USA Independence Day 5K at Hertz Arena, Estero (runeliteevents.com); and Moe’s Firecracker 5K at Fleishmann Park, Naples (gcrunner.org)

Ride? Three Critical Mass rides ahead: The NE Lee night ride on Friday (June 21), the Cape Coral night ride on June 28, and the Saturday morning Slow Roll on June 29 in downtown Fort Myers. Lights are required for night rides and helmets are recommended; details at meetup.com.  Looking for summer activities for your kids? The next week-long Wheel Lee Fun camp kicks off June 24 (the classes take a holiday break the following week, then return July 8). Details at caloosariders.org.

Both? Upcoming events include:

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RIDE:

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.

# # #

Ken Gooderham writes this on behalf of BikeWalkLee, 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. 


 

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

E-bikes may be boon for transit, but safety is an issue


Florida Weekly 'Outdoors' column, June 19, 2019
danMOSER
bikepedmoser@gmail.com


Electric bikes are useful for seniors, for those who may want to ride to work and those
who seek a motorized vehicle but have no driver’s license. COURTESY PHOTO

I’m not sure of my position on e-bikes and other electric micro mobility devices such as e-scooters.

But I am concerned about the potential for injury due to the seemingly imminent proliferation of the devices on our roads, shared-use paths and especially sidewalks that are meant specifically for pedestrians.

Already I’m not happy that so many adults routinely operate bicycles on sidewalks — it can be dangerous for them and pedestrians alike. Adding e-bikes to the pedestrian space will only make things worse. But that being said, there are many positive aspects of e-bikes to consider. As for e-scooters, perhaps I’m too old to understand why any adult would take the risk they represent to users and those around them. So, let’s just say I’m not a fan.

Speaking of being too old, folks in my age group (60-plus) and beyond can benefit greatly from e-bikes.

“Lee County has a very large population of retirees. Electric bikes are season-of-life extenders for older riders. We can expect them to be very popular here,” is a statement provided to me by Ed Benjamin, a former local bike shop owner and one of our area’s early bicycle advocates. Since selling his bike shop decades ago, Mr. Benjamin been an international expert on e-bikes. His statement is no doubt true, especially for those who no longer have the ability or will to undertake a lengthy and sustained pedal, particularly if wind or hills (something we deal with only when bridges are involved) are an issue. Whether more serious cyclists will embrace them as they get up in years is yet to be seen. Perhaps a better question is whether fellow riders who are using only human-power bikes will accept users of e-bikes into their groups having this advantage.

 For those who commute to work or elsewhere, being able to get there without having to put out so much physical energy that they are soaked with sweat upon arrival is a clear benefit. Owning an e-bike might also be an incentive for folks who are thinking about commuting by bike but have no access to a shower once at their workplace.

Another obvious benefit of e-bikes is related to transportation equity. It’s truly an inexpensive transportation option for those who otherwise would not be able to afford a motorized vehicle. While the price for a reliable e-bike starts at over $1,000, it’s nonetheless much less expensive than even the cheapest dependable car would be. As well, costs of operating are minuscule as compared to other forms of motor-powered vehicles.

Also, e-bikes can be driven by those with no driver’s license, or those whose license has been suspended or revoked. Whatever the reason one might be without a valid license — whether due to medical conditions, DUI or other traffic law violations — e-bikes are a practical transportation alternative.

Clearly, there are individual benefits to e-bikes as well as collective benefits to having them added to the traffic mix. Getting enough bikes on the roads to reach a critical mass where drivers are forced to deal with them as the legitimate part of traffic would be a great improvement to our current environment.

Until that point is reached, however, the fact that our infrastructure is still designed and built to accommodate 2-ton motor vehicles first and foremost means safety is a major concern. And having folks who don’t know or care how to safely operate traditional bikes get on e-bikes that can travel at much higher speeds than they’d otherwise be able to reach adds another level of risk — an enhanced risk that’s shared by both the e-bike operators and other vulnerable road and pathway users. If awareness and education efforts are made part of the push by the e-bike industry, it would go a long way in making me a full-fledged proponent.

To learn about this topic and more, visit bikewalklee.blogspot.com and www.streetsaliveswfl.org



 
- Dan Moser is a long-time bicycle/pedestrian advocate and traffic safety professional who cycles, runs and walks regularly for transportation, recreation and fitness. Contact him at bikepedmoser@gmail.com and 334-6417. 

For Lee County cycling and tri events visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL). The Florida Bicycle Association (floridabicycle.org) is your source for statewide happenings. BikeWalkLee’s blog site has all the information you’ll need to stay abreast of advocacy efforts in Southwest Florida as well as statewide and nationally.






Monday, June 17, 2019

June 17: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Saturday, June 22: Sugden Stride 5K. The first event in the Elite Events Summer 5k Series takes place at Sugden Regional park.  Runners will have plenty of scenic views as they wind around Lake Avalon on a closed path inside the park. Bring your swimming trunks because after the race, you can cool off in the clear lake or relax on the sandy beach. 7 a.m., North Collier Regional Park, Naples (eliteevents.org) 
  • Thursday, July 4: Freedom 5K, Cape Coral Bridge (ftmyerstrackclub.com) 
  • Thursday, July 4: Moe’s Firecracker 5K, Fleishmann Park, Naples (gcrunner.org) 
  • Thursday, July 4: USA Independence Day 5K, Hertz Arena, Estero (eliteevents.org
  • Saturday, July 27: Eagle Lakes 5K, Eagle Lakes Community Park, Naples (runeliteevents.com)
  • Saturday, Aug. 24: Rampage 5K, North Collier Regional Park, Naples (runeliteevents.com)
  • Monday, Sept. 2: Labor Day 5K, Lowdermilk Park, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; eliteevents.org and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:
  • Monday, June 17: Monday Minions Ride. This is a weekly ride that rolls in the 13-15 mph range. Total distance around 15 miles. After the ride most go over to Square 1 restaurant for the $5 burger and fries deal. If you are looking to get into cycling beyond the casual roll, this is an ideal ride for you. 6 p.m., Fort Myers Cyclery, 3630 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Tuesday, June 18: Taco Tuesday Ride. Every Tuesday night, We Ride For Tacos! After a 21 mile ride on Treeline/Old Airport/Daniels/6 Mile Cypress roads and paths, we'll finish at Tijuana Flats for Taco Tuesday. B RIDERS: 16 to 18 mph for the basic group. A RIDERS: The faster group rides at 20mph plus. We finish well after dark, so Front And Rear Lights are Required. 6:30 p.m., Trek Bicycle Store of Fort Myers, 8291 Dani Drive, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • June 17-21: Wheel Lee Fun Session 2 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Friday, June 21: NE-Lee Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7 p.m. at the Winn-Dixie, 14600 Palm Beach Blvd. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Sunday, June 23: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. This is a weekly ride for riders of most skill levels and most types of bicycles (hybrids, fitness, and road). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, thus helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. 7.30 a.m., location varies, visit (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL) for details.
  • June 24-28: Wheel Lee Fun Session 3 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Friday, June 28: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7:30 p.m., start at 8 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • July 8-12: Wheel Lee Fun Session 4 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Saturday-Sunday, July 13-14: Wheels & Wings, 15/32/50/62 mile rides from Beef O’Bradys, Punta Gorda (peaceriverridersbicycleclub.com
  • July 15-19: Wheel Lee Fun Session 5 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • July 22-26: Wheel Lee Fun Session 6 (final session) summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:
  • Saturday, June 22: Englewood YMCA Sprint Triathlon (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Sunday, Aug. 4: Siesta Sprint Triathlon/Duathlon (trifind.com
  • Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 7-8: Galloway Captiva Tri. Sprint on Saturday, kids’ events Sunday (www.gearedup.biz)
  • Saturday, Sept. 21: The Original Siesta Key Tri, sprint (runsignup.com)
  • Sunday, Nov. 17: Longboat Key Sprint/Olympic Triathlon and Duathlon and 5K (imathlete.com)
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.









Thursday, June 13, 2019

BikeWalkLee urges BoCC to reject Lee Plan Amendments re: Mining on June 19th

On June 19th, the Lee County Commissioners will take a final vote on amendments to the County's Comprehensive Plan (Lee Plan) that will eliminate the current controls on lime rock mining in Lee County.  This proposal threatens our water supply, water quality, and quality of life.  On April 14th, BikeWalkLee sent a letter to Commissioners asking them to reject these proposed amendments because of the lasting harm that will be done to our quality of life (already seriously eroded) and the County's primary tool for enhancing livability--the Lee Plan, two of BWL's overarching goals.  

At the April 17th Transmittal Hearing, the  Commission chambers were packed with interested citizens, with more than 70 individuals speaking against the proposal, including many local elected officials from around the County. In spite of the overwhelming public opposition to this proposal, the Board voted 3 to 1 to proceed (only Mann voted against).


Lee County is at a critical crossroads and much is at stake in the Board's June 19th final decision.  If you care about Lee County's future, attend Wednesday June 19th (9:30 a.m. in Commission Chambers) County Commission Final Hearing on the proposed Comp Plan amendments on mining.  In advance of this hearing, on June 13th, BikeWalkLee sent another letter to the County Commissioners urging them to vote no.

June 13, 2019

Dear Commissioners:

On June 19th you will be deciding whether to adopt Lee Plan amendments that eliminate the current controls on lime rock mining in Lee County, allowing expansion of mining--the most destructive (and non-reversible) land use. This is one of the most consequential decisions this Board will make about Lee County’s future; it will impact our water supply, water quality, and quality of life for current and future generations. BikeWalkLee urges you to listen to the many voices countywide in strong opposition to this proposal and reject these amendments.

BikeWalkLee focuses on ways to improve and support our county’s quality of life through better safety, health, and mobility. We strongly oppose these amendments because they are incompatible with the quality of life that citizens of this county expect and deserve. The amendments also dismantle the most important governmental tool for protecting and enhancing our livability—the Lee Plan. Livable communities don’t happen by accident. They are the result of good long range planning, community engagement in the Lee Plan’s development, and the commitment and political will to follow the Plan.

The mining amendments are symptomatic of this Board’s abandonment of good ideas and sound planning practices to accommodate the demands of a few rather than the needs of many. The choice before you on June 19th is clear—either you stand with the citizens of Lee County or you stand with the special interests.

We urge you to oppose these unwise and unnecessary amendments to the Lee Plan.

Sincerely,

Darla Letourneau
On behalf of BikeWalkLee
 

Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Florida Weekly's Feature Story: Mean Streets

This week's feature story in Florida Weekly looks at what various communities in SWFL are doing to address the pedestrian safety crisis in our communities. 

Florida Weekly June 12, 2019

MEAN STREETS
Florida remains most dangerous state in our nation for pedestrians

FLORIDA REMAINS AT THE TOP OF THE list when it comes to crashes per capita between cyclists or people on foot and cars in which, many point out, the car always “wins.” The state’s most populous areas consistently bear the dubious distinctions of being among the most dangerous places to ride or walk in the United States, including the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro areas.

But there is also evidence that Florida has become friendlier to pedestrians. Over the last decade, there has been a shift toward Complete Streets policies at the state level and in counties and cities, in which roadways are designed or retrofit for all modes of transportation.

“We’re really trying to push everyone to get on board with Complete Streets to get a connected network,” said Valerie Neilson, deputy director of multimodal development for the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency.

For the Palm Beach TPA, that means prioritizing high density areas with vulnerable users close to major destinations or transit hubs such as schools, she said.

While the population and number of walkers, cyclists and cars on Florida roads has steadily increased, total bike/ ped crashes has declined in the last five years through 2018. While total fatalities increased statewide last year, some counties saw modest declines or stayed nearly the same.
Pedestrian advocates and official planners also are increasingly adopting programs to lessen the likelihood of crashes. Educating drivers and pedestrians on personal safety starting in grade school and on through adulthood, as well roadway engineering, have been shown to be among the most effective solutions.
Students and staff at Florida Gulf Coast University audit local intersections and recommend safety improvements for the nonprofit Streets Alive of Southwest Florida.

In Miami-Dade County, an educational program in elementary schools called WalkSafe led to a decrease in the number of children age 0 to 14 admitted to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and Jackson Ryder Trauma Center between 2003 and 2017.

“We’re really happy that we’ve been able to decrease injury by about 75 percent in our county and (we plan to) continue on that path,” said Dr. Gillian Hotz, Ph.D., a behavioral neuroscientist who helped develop WalkSafe and a similar BikeSafe program for middle schools and parks.

Ms. Neilson in West Palm Beach believes WalkSafe should be a statewide program.
“I think as a state we should enforce (the program) in all schools,” she said.

Diana Giraldo, president and co-founder of the nonprofit Streets Alive of Southwest Florida, is working with Florida Gulf Coast University students, along with the city of Bonita Springs, and the Lee County Department of Transportation, to audit and identify needed improvements at places such as the new Bonita Springs High School.

On a Tuesday in late May she and students took counts of the students leaving on foot and by bike at the Shangrila Road crossing, where there is no light, crosswalk markings or signage such as a speed limit or school zone sign. Ms. Giraldo clocked one truck going 53 miles per hour in this 35 mile per hour zone.

Watching a group of kids pour out of the parking lot and cross the street, she grimaced. It brings back memories of her bicycle crash with a car in 2016. She’s not able to ride again, she said, because a brain injury causes her to lose her balance.

“When I see the lack of empathy from people driving, that’s one of the hardest things,” she said.
Educational programs are only part of the solution.

“While education is a noble effort, we are designed to be car oriented,” she said. “Old designs or many of the current developing areas still encourage cars for the most part… Education and advocacy will fall short unless it is eventually accompanied with infrastructure changes.”

There is a combination of factors that keep Florida high on lists such as Smart Growth America’s 2019 Pedestrian Danger Index. The Governors Highway Safety Association’s examination of crashes between 2008 and 2017, which showed that pedestrian fatalities across the country increased by 35 percent during that time, also named Florida as one of the worst offenders.

Some of the things that make the state among the most attractive for pedestrians, such as the weather, also makes it the worst, said Guillermo Canedo, a communications specialist for the Florida Department of Transportation in South Florida.

“There’s great weather year round,” Mr. Canedo said. “There’s flat terrain. Roads are straight, generally wide and long — which is good and bad. Bad in the sense that it kind of entices motorists to travel at higher speeds.
Diana Giraldo, founder of the nonprofit Streets of Alive of Southwest Florida, clocks a car going 64 in a 45 mile per hour zone by Bonita Springs High School on Imperial Parkway.

“We have national and international tourists who visit our state who may be unfamiliar with our roads and our rules of the road. We have different driving cultures. So even though you might put out traffic safety features on the road, not everyone is going to obey them.

“We have more bicyclists on the roads now than ever before. It’s become an increasingly popular sport and form of transportation and way to commute, like I do myself.
“We have a high number of elderly motorists. As you grow older your reaction times slow and your visibility lessens.

“We have densely populated cities, so more cars and more bikes in the same places, and more and more we have distracted drivers, motorists who are texting, not paying attention to their environment. And we’re seeing more electric scooters, so all of those things impact the pedestrian landscape here.”
For his part, Naples Cyclery owner and cyclist Peter Marsh finds youthful pedestrians can be as problematic as older drivers.
A car stops at a green light to let people cross the street on Fort Myers Breach.

“I’m way more freaked out from a 17-year-old chick on Snapchat than a 74-year-old grandmother going to get freakin’ bread,” he said.
The CDC says the risk of vehicle crashes is higher among teens than any other age group.

However, a Collier County Metropolitan Planning Organization analysis of crash data from 2013 to 2015, though a much smaller sample, found that neither teen drivers or those age 65 and over are involved in a disproportionate number of crashes. Teens make up about 5 percent of the Collier County population and were involved in about 5 percent of crashes while the older drivers make up about 30 percent of the population and were involved in 32 percent of crashes.

Smartphones are another major cause of crashes, the GHSA report says, pointing out that the number of phones in the U.S. quintupled between 2008 and 2017.

But Collier MPO’s report found that aggressive driving was a contributing factors in 37 percent of crashes and failure to yield in 31 percent, while both impaired or intoxicated driving and distracted driving were both factors in only about 10 percent of crashes.

Another report cited by the Collier MPO showed pedestrian’s top errors were failure to yield when crossing the road and dashing or darting out; while drivers’ top errors were failure to yield when crossing the road and backing up into someone.

It’s easy to quibble about blame between these varied and sometimes seemingly contradictory findings. Experts point to all of the above as problems. Personal behavior and roadway engineering that could reduce crashes is a complex issue that needs to be addressed by individual area, said Collier MPO Executive Director Anne McLaughlin, and that those areas are more or less the busiest areas, as one would expect.

“There’s no one off-the-shelf solution for bike pedestrian safety. You really have to analyze why a particular location is exhibiting a lot of crashes,” she said. “And there is a relationship between high usage, where a lot of people are walking and riding, and a high number of crashes are (happening). So there’s an element of simple exposure.”

In the area near where Mr. Marsh lives across from Golden Gate City he often sees people apparently headed to or from work after dusk without lights or helmets. The GHSA report found that between 2008 and 2017, 75 percent of fatal crashes in the U.S. occurred after dark. The situation along Palm Beach Boulevard in Fort Myers, a high-crash corridor, also includes a lower-income community where people often depend on walking or riding as transportation.

Source: FIRES (Florida’s Integrated Report Exchange System)

Smart Growth’s report points out the problem as well.
“Older adults, people of color, and people walking in low-income communities bear a higher share of harm,” it reads, often because of poor road design.

Along Palm Beach Boulevard, crosswalks or sometimes spaced so far apart that people would have to walk a mile out of their way to use one. No one would want to do that, so they cross elsewhere.
“You’ve got to remember people miscalculate speed and distance,” said Jay Anderson, a traffic safety advocate and former EMS captain who founded the nonprofit Stay Alive… Just Drive in Lee County. “It’s very hard to judge. A vehicle going 45 mph is going 66 feet per second.”

— Source: Seattle.gov. Vision Zero/ Collier MPO


Even the most experienced riders can have a lapse in common sense.
“Implementing some really common sense tactics I think go a really long way for most folks,” Mr. Marsh said. “One gentleman comes to mind is good friend of ours. He was training for an Ironman race and he was in that mindset where he had to get miles in. It was almost like at any cost these training rides had to be complete. He was on Immokalee or Oil Well when it was foggy out or something. (He) got smoked by something.” Fortunately that rider recovered.

Punta Gorda resident and longtime cyclist Court Nederveld still puts in about 8,000 miles per year on his bicycle, he said. He’s a member of Charlotte County MPO’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and past president of the Peace River Riders Bicycle Club. He’s seen major improvements over the last 15 years and argues that bicycling is essentially a safe activity for those who know and follow the rules.

Mr. Anderson of Stay Alive… Just Drive agrees. That goes for both drivers and cyclists, he adds:
“If people would obey the traffic laws think what a different it would make. That’s the solution to the problem as simple and corny as it sounds.”

Mr. Marsh addressed some of the strides pedestrian and bicycle advocates have made and where improvement is needed.

“The number of people riding bikes has just exploded” in the last 15 years, he said. “And that alone is a driving force for the modifications we need to the transportation system. So I give that a big bonus right there…

“We’ve seen the state of Florida do an almost 180 degree turn to work towards Complete Streets. (But) there’s a tremendous pushback from some local municipalities and counties.”
And he has seen more improvements for recreational cyclists than those who use it as a means of transportation.

“That’s where we need to really focus is turning bicycle riding into a transportation mode in addition to recreation,” he said.

In October 2018 the Charlotte MPO adopted a Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan for the first time. Executive Director Gary Harrell said that could help draw funding for improvements. But filling in those missing links to make all roads, which were originally designed just for cars, amenable to pedestrians and cyclists will be a steep challenge.

From post-World War II for decades onward, Florida’s road system was built for cars. And it may take years to see the results in fewer crashes from retrofitting roads with paint, signage, and more expensive improvements.

“The harder part it comes in several categories where we deal with the inventory of what we have and some roadways do have bicycle paths,” Mr. Harrell said. “Some of them have bicycle lanes, some of them just have wide shoulders, and many of them have no shoulders.” ¦

BICYCLE REGULATIONS
In Florida, a bicycle is legally defined as a vehicle. Bicyclists have the same rights to the roadway and must obey the same traffic laws as the operators of other vehicles.

When riding on sidewalks or in crosswalks, a bicyclist has the same rights and duties as a pedestrian.
A bicyclist riding on sidewalks or in crosswalks must yield the right of way to pedestrians and must give an audible signal before passing.

A bicycle operated between sunset and sunrise must be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from 500 feet to the front and a red reflector and a lamp on the rear exhibiting a red light visible from 600 feet to the rear.

A bicyclist who is not traveling at the same speed of other traffic must ride as close as practical to the right hand curb or edge of roadway. A bicyclist may leave the right-most portion of the road in one of the following situations: when passing, making a left turn, to avoid hazards, or when a lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a car to share it safely.

*Riding single file is required except on bike paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles, or when two people riding side-by-side within one lane will not impede traffic flow.
— Source: Section 316.2065, Florida Statutes

PEDESTRIAN REGULATIONS
When a sidewalk is available, pedestrians are not allowed to walk on the roadway.

Where sidewalks are not provided, pedestrians shall walk on the shoulder on the left side of the roadway, facing traffic.

When traffic signals are not present or not operational, the driver of a vehicle must yield the right of way, slowing or stopping if necessary, to pedestrians crossing within a crosswalk.

Pedestrians crossing the roadway at any point other than within a marked or unmarked crosswalk must yield the right of way to the vehicles upon the roadway.

Pavement markings are not required for crosswalks at intersections. Imaginary lines connecting the sidewalks on opposite sides of an intersection define an unmarked crosswalk. Pedestrians in unmarked crosswalks have all the rights of pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

No pedestrian shall walk upon a limited access facility (freeway or interstate highway) or a ramp connecting a limited access facility to any other street or highway.
— Source: Sections 316.130 and 316.091, Florida Statutes

THREE-FOOT RULE
The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle.
— Source: Section 316.083, Florida Statutes

Monday, June 10, 2019

June 10: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Saturday, June 15: FMTC Membership 5K Fun Run. 7 a.m., CenturyLink Sports Complex, Fort Myers (ftmyerstrackclub.com)
  • Saturday, June 22: Sugden Stride 5K. The first event in the Elite Events Summer 5k Series takes place at Sugden Regional park.  Runners will have plenty of scenic views as they wind around Lake Avalon on a closed path inside the park. Bring your swimming trunks because after the race, you can cool off in the clear lake or relax on the sandy beach. 7 a.m., North Collier Regional Park, Naples (eliteevents.org) 
  • Thursday, July 4: Freedom 5K, Cape Coral Bridge (ftmyerstrackclub.com) 
  • Thursday, July 4: Moe’s Firecracker 5K, Fleishmann Park, Naples (gcrunner.org) 
  • Thursday, July 4: USA Independence Day 5K, Hertz Arena, Estero (eliteevents.org
  • Saturday, July 27: Eagle Lakes 5K, Eagle Lakes Community Park, Naples (runeliteevents.com)
  • Saturday, Aug. 24: Rampage 5K, North Collier Regional Park, Naples (runeliteevents.com)
  • Monday, Sept. 2: Labor Day 5K, Lowdermilk Park, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; eliteevents.org and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:
  • Monday, June 10: Monday Minions Ride. This is a weekly ride that rolls in the 13-15 mph range. Total distance around 15 miles. After the ride most go over to Square 1 restaurant for the $5 burger and fries deal. If you are looking to get into cycling beyond the casual roll, this is an ideal ride for you. 6 p.m., Fort Myers Cyclery, 3630 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Tuesday, June 11: Taco Tuesday Ride. Every Tuesday night, We Ride For Tacos! After a 21 mile ride on Treeline/Old Airport/Daniels/6 Mile Cypress roads and paths, we'll finish at Tijuana Flats for Taco Tuesday. B RIDERS: 16 to 18 mph for the basic group. A RIDERS: The faster group rides at 20mph plus. We finish well after dark, so Front And Rear Lights are Required. 6:30 p.m., Trek Bicycle Store of Fort Myers, 8291 Dani Drive, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • June 10-14: Wheel Lee Fun Session 1 summer camp begins for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Sunday, June 16: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. This is a weekly ride for riders of most skill levels and most types of bicycles (hybrids, fitness, and road). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, thus helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. 7.30 a.m., location varies, visit (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL) for details.
  • June 17-21: Wheel Lee Fun Session 2 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Friday, June 21: NE-Lee Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7 p.m. at the Winn-Dixie, 14600 Palm Beach Blvd. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • June 24-28: Wheel Lee Fun Session 3 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Friday, June 28: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7:30 p.m., start at 8 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • July 8-12: Wheel Lee Fun Session 4 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Saturday-Sunday, July 13-14: Wheels & Wings, 15/32/50/62 mile rides from Beef O’Bradys, Punta Gorda (peaceriverridersbicycleclub.com
  • July 15-19: Wheel Lee Fun Session 5 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • July 22-26: Wheel Lee Fun Session 6 (final session) summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons:
  • Saturday, June 22: Englewood YMCA Sprint Triathlon (trifind.com)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sirens Sprint Tri, Sarasota (trifind.com
  • Sunday, Aug. 4: Siesta Sprint Triathlon/Duathlon (trifind.com
  • Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 7-8: Galloway Captiva Tri. Sprint on Saturday, kids’ events Sunday (www.gearedup.biz)
  • Saturday, Sept. 21: The Original Siesta Key Tri, sprint (runsignup.com)
  • Sunday, Nov. 17: Longboat Key Sprint/Olympic Triathlon and Duathlon and 5K (imathlete.com)
  • Check trifind.com to find regional and state tris.









Friday, June 7, 2019

BWL Column: It's never too late to learn to ride


BikeWalkLee Column
The News-Press, June 6, 2019
by Ken Gooderham


Is it ever too late to learn how to ride a bike – or ride it better?

Sure, if you’re a kid, learning how to ride is considered de rigueur – a virtual rite of passage of one’s childhood. The mastery of a new skill, a sense of newfound freedom, the launch of what (for some) becomes a lifelong passion – all common results of learning to ride.

And there typically are a variety of opportunities to learn to ride a bike, or ride one better, for kids. One good example we covered in an earlier column is the Wheel Lee Fun summer camp which begins next week, where riders ages 8 to 15 can learn and expand their cycling skills.

What about the adults new to cycling and seeking to learn to ride (period), to ride better or to expand their cycling skill sets? There may not be summer camps for that, but there still are a number of options.

If you need to learn how to ride, it’s never too late – and you have a number of ways to pursue that skill. One is to find a cycling instructor to teach you in person; local bike shops can be a good source for potential instructors. There are also a lot of resources online, both from websites (look for reputable ones to start, until you can discern the difference between savvy and silly on your own) and the ubiquitous YouTube, with more videos than you’ll have time to watch them.

If you already can ride but would like to ride more skillfully, it may come down to the skills you’d like to learn to guide your pursuit. Want to learn how to ride in a group? The best to learn is to do it, and local bike clubs often offer sessions on group skills as well as rides where you can practice what you’ve learned.

You can also look at cycling skills classes and instructors, often coordinated through state or national advocacy groups – such as Florida Bicycle Association and the League of American Bicyclists. Check out their websites for details.

Of course, while online you can search for tips or videos that can also boost your skills. These will help you see how to get better… but nothing beats actually doing it for the best learning experience.

Another important skill for cyclists is taking care of your bike – including making emergency repairs on the road. How much you need to know depends on how far afield you plan to ride… so if you’re just cruising the neighborhood, the best skill you may need is knowing how to get your broke-down bike to the local bike shop. But if you’re looking at longer rides, it’s smart to have some basic repair skills (like replacing or repairing a flat) that can enable you to make it back home safely.

For those, again you have choices. Bike shops frequently offer clinics to help new riders (and potential customers) learn the basics of bike maintenance; check your local shops for offerings. That’s also a great way to make new contacts with fellow cyclists and the local biking community, if you’re interested in that.

Have some basic mechanical skills? Then a little research and reading (as well as some careful wrenching) can expand your repair repertoire rapidly. (Just make sure you don’t make a bad situation worse by a botched repair, and that you have the tools necessary to get the job done.) Also, YouTube (again) has a ton of videos on bike repair to show you how it’s done.

Perhaps the best advice is to know what you don’t know so you can find someone who can tackle that on your behalf. Handling basic maintenance is one thing, taking on a major repair is something very different – particularly repair of a crucial component such as brakes, gears and chains.

After all, you want to spend your time riding, right? Not being broken down on the side of the road – or worse – from a repair gone wrong.

Ready to ride or run? 

Run? Still a few organized races for those willing to get up early to beat the heat. This Saturday, there’s the Cape Coral Elks 5K at Rotary Park in Cape Coral (3dracinging.com or active.com). The following weekend (June 15), the Fort Myers Track Club holds its annual Membership Fun Run 5K at the CenturyLink Sports Complex, Fort Myers (ftmyerstrackclub.com).

Ride? Back-to-back Critical Mass rides this weekend, with the original SW Florida night ride in downtown Fort Myers Friday and the Sanibel night ride Saturday. Lights are required for night rides and helmets are recommended; details at meetup.com. Looking for summer activities for your kids? The first week-long Wheel Lee Fun camp kicks off June 10. Details at caloosariders.org.


Both? Upcoming events include:

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RIDE:

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.

# # #

Ken Gooderham writes this on behalf of BikeWalkLee, 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. 


 

Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Micromobility is knocking

Florida Weekly 'Outdoors' column, June 5, 2019
danMOSER
bikepedmoser@gmail.com

E-bikes like this one on display at Tour de Cape are becoming more common.
Getting around in ways other than in a car has become quite common, especially in many urban areas around our country. The advent of bikeshare programs a few decades ago — primarily in our larger cities — meant a significant increase in people using bikes for short and medium distance trips where driving and parking is difficult and costly. But with this rapid increase came concerns about safety and public space use. As those issues were being addressed electric-powered micromobility devices entered the picture in the forms of e-bikes and stand-up e-scooters. As was the case with the original bike-share programs, safety and public space concerns caught many local governments by surprise. Entrepreneurs haven’t waited around for regulators to get a handle on those and other issues created by their businesses and those problems remain in most places where fledgling or even robust micromobility programs exists.

Add to the mix e-scooter and e-bike users operating at higher than appropriate speeds and it’s the lowly pedestrian who faces the most risk, although for inexperienced micromobility device users both sidewalks and roads can be fraught with hazards for them as well.

Cities and universities that rank highest on League of American Bicyclists’ Bicycle Friendly Community/University lists worked for many years and even decades to get to that level in terms of developing policies, priorities and infrastructure to accommodate a much higher percentage of bicycle use than average communities. Places like Denver, Portland, Ore., and Davis, Calif., still wrestle with too much of a good thing, although it’s clearly positive overall. Where e-bikes and e-scooters have been thrust into communities and college campuses in large numbers that aren’t adequately prepared for a boom in even traditional, human-powered bicycles it’s going to be interesting to see how officials and the general public deal with the inevitable changes that come with it.

A recent report published by National League of Cities “Micromobility in Cities, a History and Policy Overview,” does an excellent job of framing the benefits, negatives and challenges related to this matter. While our city centers in Southwest Florida don’t yet experience the gridlock and parking problems of larger cities (our traffic problems are generally sprawl-related and primarily on major roads, bridges and I-75 interchanges) many of the good, bad and unknowns still apply. For example, getting cars off the roads is always a plus as it reduces delay among those who do drive and may even remove the need to expand roads, a benefit to all taxpayers. However, reallocating space in the public rights-of-way is usually a necessary step once micromobility use reaches a critical level, meaning existing modes — driving and/or walking — may be compromised in order for that to occur.

An important aspect of this phenomenon not to be underestimated is the profit motive of the micromobility businesses either seeking to expand into an area. In a number of cities, rather than asking permission they seek forgiveness after setting-up shop without first gaining official approval, often times creating chaos or at least unanticipated expenses to local governments and taxpayers. As with many other aspects of today’s world, there’s so much change happening so fast that governments are always well behind the curve in getting a handle on both intended and unintended consequences. But since one of government’s primary purposes is to ensure the safety of its citizens as much as possible, regulating micromobility and the various devices — whether as part of a shared system or private ownership and use — is vital. At this point, at least from what I’ve learned, most governments that are dealing with this are still chasing their tails. Here in Southwest Florida there’s been little thought given to an onslaught of micromobility, thus few, if any, regulations are in place. Sanibel is perhaps the exception. Even with the few e-bikes that are among the transportation mix here, I’ve seen many zipping along at high speeds on sidewalks, something that’s illegal but overlooked by law enforcers, meaning yet another hazard pedestrians must deal with.
As always, to learn about these topics and more visit bikewalklee.blogspot.com. ¦




 
- Dan Moser is a long-time bicycle/pedestrian advocate and traffic safety professional who cycles, runs and walks regularly for transportation, recreation and fitness. Contact him at bikepedmoser@gmail.com and 334-6417. 

For Lee County cycling and tri events visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL). The Florida Bicycle Association (floridabicycle.org) is your source for statewide happenings. BikeWalkLee’s blog site has all the information you’ll need to stay abreast of advocacy efforts in Southwest Florida as well as statewide and nationally.






Monday, June 3, 2019

June 3: Upcoming running/walking/bicycling/tri events

Upcoming events

Running/walking:
  • Wednesday, June 5: The Big Run national 5K. For the third year, Fleet Feet and Brooks will come together on June 5 to host The Big Run! The annual nationwide 5K brings thousands of runners together on Global Running Day to do what we love most: run.  Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers (runsignup.com)
  • Saturday, June 8: Cape Coral Elks 5K. Join us on this fun, flat, and fast out and back course, starting and ending at beautiful Rotary Park.  Water station half-way, water and snacks at the finish.  Tech shirt and goody bag included in entry.  Awards in over all and age catagories following the race.  Race starts at 7:30 a.m. Rotary Park, Cape Coral (active.com)  
  • Saturday, June 15: FMTC Membership 5K Fun Run, 7 a.m., CenturyLink Sports Complex, Fort Myers (ftmyerstrackclub.com)
  • Saturday, June 22: Sugden Stride 5K, North Collier Regional Pak, Naples (eliteevents.org) 
  • Thursday, July 4: Freedom 5K, Cape Coral Bridge (ftmyerstrackclub.com) 
  • Thursday, July 4: Moe’s Firecracker 5K, Fleishmann Park, Naples (gcrunner.org) 
  • Thursday, July 4: USA Independence Day 5K, Hertz Arena, Estero (eliteevents.org
  • Monday, Sept. 2: Labor Day 5K, Lowdermilk Park, Naples (gcrunner.org)
  • For more running events visit gcrunner.org/calendar.html; ftmyerstrackclub.com/race-calendar; eliteevents.org and 3dracinginc.com

Cycling:

  • Monday, June 3: Monday Minions Ride. This is a weekly ride that rolls in the 13-15 mph range. Total distance around 15 miles. After the ride most go over to Square 1 restaurant for the $5 burger and fries deal. If you are looking to get into cycling beyond the casual roll, this is an ideal ride for you. 6 p.m., Fort Myers Cyclery, 3630 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Tuesday, June 4: Taco Tuesday Ride. Every Tuesday night, We Ride For Tacos! After a 21 mile ride on Treeline/Old Airport/Daniels/6 Mile Cypress roads and paths, we'll finish at Tijuana Flats for Taco Tuesday. B RIDERS: 16 to 18 mph for the basic group. A RIDERS: The faster group rides at 20mph plus. We finish well after dark, so Front And Rear Lights are Required. 6:30 p.m., Trek Bicycle Store of Fort Myers, 8291 Dani Drive, Fort Myers (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Friday, June 7: SW Florida Critical Mass ride. A family-friendly slow ride through Fort Myers gathering at 7:15 p.m. and starting at 8 p.m. Front and rear bike lights required. Grab your helmet, bring all your friends and meet in the open field next to Publix at First Street Village, 2160 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Saturday, June 8: Sanibel Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7:30 p.m. at Jerry’s Shopping Center, 1700 Periwinkle Way, on Sanibel. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL)
  • Sunday, June 9: Wakey, Wakey! Weekly Sunday Morning Ride. This is a weekly ride for riders of most skill levels and most types of bicycles (hybrids, fitness, and road). The ride is sanctioned by the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club, thus helmets are required, no ear buds, and no aero bar use while in the group. 7.30 a.m., location varies, visit (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL) for details. 
  • June 10-14: Wheel Lee Fun Session 1 summer camp begins for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • June 17-21: Wheel Lee Fun Session 2 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Friday, June 21: NE-Lee Critical Mass ride, gathers at 7 p.m. at the Winn-Dixie, 14600 Palm Beach Blvd. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • June 24-28: Wheel Lee Fun Session 3 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Friday, June 28: Cape Coral Critical Mass ride. Gather at 7:30 p.m., start at 8 p.m. at the Southwest Florida Military Museum parking lot at 4820 Leonard Street for a family-friendly ride through the Cape. Lights required, helmets recommended. (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL
  • July 8-12: Wheel Lee Fun Session 4 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Saturday-Sunday, July 13-14: Wheels & Wings, 15/32/50/62 mile rides from Beef O’Bradys, Punta Gorda (peaceriverridersbicycleclub.com
  • July 15-19: Wheel Lee Fun Session 5 summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • July 22-26: Wheel Lee Fun Session 6 (final session) summer camp for ages 8-15, 1941 Hill Ave., Fort Myers (caloosariders.org)
  • Ongoing: Join the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club on one of their many weekly rides for members and potential members, with an array of paces and routes to choose from. Check them out online at www.caloosariders.org.
  • For more Lee County cycling and tri events, visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club (caloosariders.org); Florida Mudcutters (mudcutters.org); and SW Florida Biking Meetup Group (meetup.com/Biking-SWFL).

Triathlons: