Giving Back – Chico Velo
ENJOY Q&A, with Whitney Garcia, Chico Velo Co-Manager…
What is the mission statement of Chico Velo?
We promote bicycling for transportation, recreation and health through public education, advocacy and community stewardship.
What are some of the organization’s accomplishments?
Some of our most significant accomplishments include 44 years of the Wildflower Century Ride & Festival, the first-ever Butte County Gravel race, the Decide and Ride landmark at One Mile, and our Trailworks Program.
What impact do events like the Wildflower Century have on the local economy?
These events are a part of eco-tourism – recreational activities for people to enjoy while they are away from home. Since it is a staple, the local community expects an influx of visitors. This repeated pattern of generous and fun hospitality is what brings people back to Chico. Our events are our largest fundraisers, and they directly impact the local economy by providing advocacy and service for bicyclists, making Chico a nice place to live and visit for riders.
What are the biggest challenges facing cyclists in the Chico area today, and how is Chico Velo addressing them?
Safety and education. Distracted driving is always an issue, and there are so many modes of transportation that don’t all follow the same rules. We advocate for recreational spaces closed to cars, we share information regarding rules of the roads and we participate in educational series with local collaborators to teach young children about bike and road safety.
What partnerships or collaborations does Chico Velo have to encourage cycling as a way of life?
Chico Velo coordinates with many different organizations, as our Trailworks program gives us the opportunity to also be in the trail building industry. We collaborate with the Chico Area Recreation and Park District, Butte County Public Health, California Mountain Bike Organization, North Rim Adventure Sports, Performance Bicycle, Explore Butte County, Butte County Resource Conservation District, Adventure Outings and more. For cycling to be a way of life, people need to have a reason to cycle. People ride for two main reasons: Recreation and transportation. By having a trail maintenance program, we are a tools-in-the-ground influence for civic and recreational opportunities.
What programs or initiatives does Chico Velo offer to promote safe and accessible cycling for all ages?
Our Bike Valet offers free and secure bicycle parking. The Chico Area Recreation and Park District hires Bike Valet for its spring events, and we park at the Thursday Night Market & Saturday Farmers Market in Downtown Chico. Ride your bike to these awesome community events and don’t be weighed down by a lock.
What projects are aimed at making Chico a more bike-friendly city?
The Chico Bike Park is one of our favorites right now, a world-class bike park for our town. There is also the E. 20th Street Overpass and the Esplanade Corridor Safety Improvement Project. The City of Chico is working really hard to get these projects finished.
How can community members get involved with Chico Velo?
Visit our website, chicovelo.org, to sign up for our newsletter or for volunteer opportunities, like Trailworks in Upper Park. Or visit www.wildflowercentury.org to volunteer at the 44th Wildflower Ride, one of Chico’s premier events.
