Baldwin hosts third annual Community Bike Rodeo and Parade to promote cycling and safety

Baldwin Park was filled with cyclists, families and local officials on May 10 for the third annual Community Bike Rodeo and Parade, hosted by Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé and the Baldwin Civic Association.

The event featured group rides with designated routes for children, families and experienced riders, as well as a free bike clinic with safety checks and tune-ups. The goal of the annual event is to promote cycling, health and community engagement.

“As a longtime cyclist myself, it is wonderful to see how the Baldwin community comes together to celebrate cycling and learn more about this wonderful form of outdoor recreation,” Mulé said. She also thanked the Nassau County Police Department’s First Precinct for keeping participants safe throughout the ride.

Cyclists followed different routes based on age and experience. Younger children and families rode past Meadow Elementary School before looping back to the park. Older participants continued on a longer route along Park Avenue, Harrison Avenue, Merrick Road and Atlantic Avenue.

Willy Zambrano, economic development chair of the Baldwin Civic Association and lead coordinator of the bike parade, told the Herald that the event continues to grow.

“The highlight of the ride is the joy the kids had riding on the streets of the community especially riding on Merrick and Atlantic Avenue, and from an adult perspective, the beauty of the neighborhoods we passed along the route,” he said. “We hope this does become a tradition with the support from all elected officials to get out, be active and connect to all of our neighborhoods, including our commercial corridors. We hope to eventually have a bike path network so that kids and adults alike can ride bikes safely around our community.”

Oceanside Cycle provided free tune-ups during the event. Support also came from Transit Solutions, Let’s Move LI, Vision Long Island, the Town of Hempstead and the police department. Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow and Assemblywoman Judy Griffin also attended.

“It was fantastic to see so many children, teens, adults and families join together to bike ride safely throughout the Baldwin community,” Griffin said. “Thank you to the Nassau County Police Department for leading the way and teaching the participants bike safety.”

Organizers say the event continues to promote physical activity and bike safety, while helping build stronger connections throughout the Baldwin community.