LOS ANGELES (CNS) - With CicLAvia returning to downtown Los Angeles soon, Metro officials today encouraged the public to participate and also pointed out the route has added a hub in Echo Park.
On Oct. 8, thousands of bikers and pedestrians are expected to take to the streets for the event, which is hosted by Metro and meant to inspire Angelenos to explore new neighborhoods and get out of their cars as the route's streets are blocked to vehicle traffic.
This will be CicLAvia's 23rd event since its launch in 2010, and an annual return to its original downtown route, known as the Heart of Los Angeles, which also includes hubs in Chinatown, Boyle Heights, the Arts District and Little Tokyo.
``CicLAvia transforms our bustling streets into great public spaces that everyone can enjoy,'' said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, chair of the Metro Board. ``I am glad it is returning to downtown L.A. -- where people of all ages can spend the day rediscovering a historic neighborhood, enjoying healthy recreation, and making new friends.''
Hubs along the route will include activities celebrating Los Angeles' successful bid for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic games, an urban camping program for local children, pedi-cabs and play zones featuring vintage board games, a news conference kick-off, and activities commemorating the annual return to the original route that started CicLAvia.
``Funding open streets events like CicLAvia are part of Metro's ongoing efforts to support active transportation options like bicycling throughout Los Angeles County,'' Metro CEO Phillip A. Washington said. ``Working with organizations like CicLAvia helps us realize our mission of introducing more people to the benefits of bicycling and transit to see L.A.'s wealth of local destinations.''
The route and more information on the event can be found at http://www.ciclavia.org/.