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Active Richmond

In Dr. Kimberly Perry's view, the best confluence of transportation and recreation for Richmonders is on a bicycle.

"There's a tremendous interest in cycling in Richmond," says Perry, the executive director of BikeWalk Virginia . "From the VCU student riding to class to families out for fun, there's a huge gamut of activity here. We're lacking bike lanes and sidewalks so there's a lot to overcome, but I see a tremendous opportunity here. We've got to have a shift in the way our leaders think about it, but that's happening."

And, as Perry notes, $4-a-gallon gasoline is also nudging folks into a cycling frame of mind. And that's where BikeWalk Virginia can help make Richmond more bike friendly and bike active.

As a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing non-motorized transportation options, BikeWalk Virginia's mission is to make   biking, walking, horseback riding and paddling more viable all across the state.  

One way they do that is by working on projects associated with trails, bike paths, greenways and blueways. Theirs is the "if you build it they will come" approach to promoting recreation, which, based on my experience with Northern Virginia's extensive bike trail system, is extremely effective.

Currently BikeWalk Virginia has seven chapters across the state, though none in Richmond. "I feel like Richmond would be a great place to have a strong chapter," says Perry. To that end they are looking to gradually grow a chapter here.  

One activity they have already provided is to offer bike commuting courses with the Richmond Area Bicycling Assocation , Cycor Sports , Ride Finders and the League of American Bicyclists .

Another activity they are offering is the Northern Neck River Ride in Kilmarnock on September 26-28.   Promising a great weekend of cycling in one of Virginia's most scenic (and flat) areas, the Northern Neck River Ride is co-sponsored by the National Park Service Potomac Heritage Natural Scenic Trail which the route follows. Rest stops will be located in historically significant locations.

Registration fees range from $15 for juniors to $50 for adults. Cyclists who show up with a helmet and a bike can expect a fully supported bike ride, a meal, food and drink, onsite mechanics, fully marked routes and SAG support.     Routes range in length from 25 to 100 miles. And best of all, proceeds go to BikeWalk Virginia.  

For more information, go to www.riverride.org