While I understand that America is a car-based society and there is no radical plan to open my hometown to bikers and walkers only, I have dreams of my family riding our bikes worry free. Enter: Portland Sunday Parkways.
Our lovely city-neighbor to the north has organized five summer rides that close the streets to cars and invite citizens to bike, eat, play, and enjoy Portland’s largest public space: its streets! The parkways website says the event: “promotes healthy active living, fosters civic pride, stimulates economic development, and represents the community, business and government investments in Portland's vitality, livability and diversity.” My eight year old says, “Sunday Parkways are fun!”
My hope is that Sunday Parkways would come to every town, but until it does – might I suggest a family trip to Portland? The next event is scheduled for July 24th. Much cheaper that a trip to Denmark, this event has all the carefree fun of childhood bike rides, all the charisma of a community celebration, and the essential safety precautions this mommy requires for her growing boys.
I was too busy riding to take many good pictures, but you can check out BikePortland.org for great photos capturing the fun.