Sunday's CicLAvia Event A Hit For L.A. Cyclists
Bike enthusiasts (and those of other non-motorized transportation) flocked to the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday to take part in the sixth CicLAvia. The event attracted over 150,000 people to ride on a network of streets that were cut off from car traffic and stretched from downtown all the way to the ocean.
One of the things Los Angeles is most known for is its absolutely horrid traffic problems and lack of easy access for many non-motorized vehicles. The CicLAvia event serves as a reminder and a celebration of the simpler forms of transportation, and some think that it just may turn L.A. into a more bike and pedestrian-friendly city.
"It's not a walkable city yet, but it's becoming a walkable city," Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said."We've got to start sharing the road, particularly in this city that's so addicted to the single-passenger automobile."
Public support for the event seems to be pretty high, as this was the largest CicLAvia to date and was pulled off without a hitch. One Los Angeles resident noted that "it's a nice way for us to spend time together and see the city in a different way," with another adding that "they should do this every weekend."
The event was held just one week after the bombing of the Boston Marathon, which took the lives of three people and injured ove 150 more. There was some concern over the safety of those participating in the event, but those partaking did not seem to be fazed.
"It is in the back of your head," said 43-year-old Alhambra housing inspector Gus Vindell. "We're not going to let fear get the best of us though. This is our first CicLAvia. The idea of riding all the way to the beach is exciting."
The CicLAvia event was inspired by Ciclovia, which for 30 years has been an annual gathering in the crowded streets of Bogota, Colombia that also aims to give people a more pedestrian view of the city. CicLAvia cost $350,000 with a total route of about 15 miles. The next event is scheduled for June 23 on Wilshire Boulevard.