The Long Island alternative transportation advocacy organization, Car-less Long Island, is holding its second annual Long Island "Bike-to-Work Parade" on Saturday, April 29. Gathering for the parade begins as 9 a.m. at Hofstra University's North campus.
The parade will follow a 6.5-mile loop beginning and ending at Hofstra. There will be a route for pedestrians, disabled participants, cyclists with younger children and cyclists who simply would prefer a shorter ride. Participants are encouraged to dress up and adorn their bicycles. There will be a festival with prizes for the best costumes and bikes at the end of the parade. The festival leads into Hofstra’s Dutch festival with food and flower vendors, music and rides for small children.
"There are many reasons why Long Islanders should support alternative forms of transportation, such as biking," said Car-less Long Island founder and chairwoman, Sylvia Silberger. "Clearly it is much more environmentally friendly and bicycle commuters are able to incorporate a healthier active life-style into their daily routine. But also, it reduces vehicular congestion, benefitting all motorists, and many studies have shown that walk- and bike-ability helps local businesses thrive. There are also many Long Islanders who need alternative forms of transportation because they are unable to drive or own their own cars and we all benefit if everyone as access to the transportation necessary to survive in this world." The bike parade is officially listed as a sister march to the Climate March on Washington that day.