wellness
Midtown Adds Protected Cycling Routes for Families and Beginners
New paths through Oakwood and along the river give parents and new riders options away from heavy traffic.
How we reported this
Midtown Parks Department opened 8.4 miles of separated bike lanes last month on routes linking Oakwood neighborhood to the riverfront trail.
The additions respond to rising demand from households seeking low-stress outdoor activity during longer daylight hours this summer. City data show permit applications for family group rides climbed 32 percent between May and June compared with the same period last year.
Routes through Oakwood and along the river
The primary family-friendly stretch starts at the Oakwood Community Center on 14th Street and follows a new protected lane east to Riverside Park. Riders cross only two signaled intersections before reaching the flat 3-mile riverfront section that ends at the Midtown Boathouse. A second option begins at the Midtown Recreation Center on Maple Avenue and uses the newly striped path on 22nd Street to connect with the same river trail. Both routes stay under 5 miles round trip and avoid streets posted above 30 mph.
The Midtown Bike Coalition runs a free Saturday orientation at the Oakwood starting point, supplying helmets and basic bike checks for first-time participants. The coalition also maintains a map kiosk at Riverside Park that lists water fountains and restrooms along each segment.
Participation numbers and next steps
City counts recorded 1,240 family riders on the new lanes during the first two weekends after the June 12 opening. Average group size was 3.2 people, with 61 percent of riders under age 14. A $45 annual family pass covers access to the coalition’s weekly skill sessions through September.
Parents can check the Midtown Parks website for real-time lane closure updates or call the recreation center at 555-0142 to reserve a spot in the next orientation ride. Helmets remain required on all city paths, and lights are recommended after 8 p.m.