On Sunday, April 19th, over 120 cyclists participated in Pedal! Paddle! Explore! a family friendly, police escorted 10 mile bike ride through Cranford. The bike ride began at 9 am in the parking lot next to Cervantes of Spain. Walgreens, Hilltop Bicycles and Power Bar each had a tent set-up for this event and offered giveaways to the participants. In addition Fresh Press Juice Company and Strength and Fitness Club were present and interacted with the attendees. Walgreens supplied water and snacks for all riders at each of the three water stops.
The cyclists ranging in age from five to sixty five plus then biked to Nomahegan Park through Kennilworth, down Orange Avenue and back to the starting point. After a ten minute water stop the bike ride continued another five miles on the south side of Cranford, taking Centennial Avenue and making their way to Hillside Avenue to Crane Parkway through Mohawk Park for the third water stop. After leaving Indian Village the cyclists worked their way to South Union Avenue then back into town, ending back at the starting point. The festivities were ready to start upon the return of the cyclists. The Cranford Canoe Club offered free canoe rentals all day as part of this event.
The Cranford Police Department escorted the cyclists on this ten-mile route. Cranford Fire Department had a Fire Truck for the children to tour. Cranford Recreation and Parks Department supplied a balloon maker and face painter for the children to enjoy. Strength and Fitness Club interacted with the children by setting up physical activities for them to challenge themselves. The Cranford Chamber of Commerce provided the logistical support as well as the sound system for the music. The Cranford First Aid Squad was present for the entire ride.
Pedal! Paddle! Explore! is part of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign through the Cranford Community Connection. Members of the Cranford Community Connection include the Centennial Village Group, Cranford Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Business and Economic Development Office. Cranford has hosted a family friendly bike ride in past years. After a few years hiatus, this bike ride has returned. If you would like to assist in planning next year’s ride please call 908-377-5722 and leave a message.
Submitted by Dottie Baniewicz, Executive Director, 908-272-6114
