Elyria, OH – The city of Elyria and the Elyria Bicycle Education Center are hosting the 2nd Annual Elyria Bike Donation Drive on Saturday, May 15 at West Recreation Center Garage from 10:00 – 3:00 p.m.
“Bicycles have always been a part of Elyria’s history – from some of the original saddles being innovated, designed, and manufactured right in Downtown Elyria to riding the beautiful trails at Cascade, Bur Oak, High Meadows, the North Coast Inland Trail and the developing trails and bike lanes across the city. However, there are still many people who lack a good bike to be able to enjoy these great amenities. That is why we are hosting a Bicycle Drive again this year encouraging residents, friends, and family to donate bikes so that we can get them refurbished and back out to the public” shared Mayor Frank Whitfield.
Donations of new, old, and used bikes and bike parts for both adults and kids will be accepted in a drive-thru style donation drop-off. Individuals and organizations interested in making a donation should enter West Park from Foster Avenue, and pull up near the old pool/garage. Masked volunteers will be on site to collect and organize items. A traffic flow map is included below:
“Last year so many people donated bikes, requested bikes, or joined us for our Wednesday night “Bike Nights.” We would love to see twice as many adults and kids get bikes this year so they can enjoy Ely LIFE. That is why for Pride Day on May 15th, our signature project will be partnering with the Elyria Bicycle Education Center and seeking donations of bikes at West Park.”
The dynamic partnership between the City of Elyria and the Elyria Bicycle Education Center began last year with the first annual donation drive. Over 120 bikes were collected and distributed from July through December, concluding with a special Santa Claus distribution as Midview Crossing. Build-A-Bike community service events were held during that time to prepare each bike for safe riding, and guided rides throughout the city were scheduled.
“We’re thrilled to continue this meaningful collaboration with the Office of the Mayor and Safety Service Director,” shared Ed Stewart, Director of the Elyria Bicycle Education Center. “We’re more than just a bike shop – we prioritize education, safety, and training, and are excited to continue to train the next group of volunteers, new riders, and seasoned bike enthusiasts this season.”
Distribution of free bicycles to City residents will be announced once an initial batch of bikes is fully sorted, cleaned, repaired and deemed safe for use. Bicycles may also be purchased at discounted rates from the Elyria Bicycle Education Center, located 408 Middle Avenue. To learn more about this initiative and subsequent events, visit cityofelyria.org
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