More Than 3,000 Motorcyclists To Roll Through Redding On Sunday

REDDING, CT — Connecticut’s largest 9/11 tribute, the CT United Ride, will return Sept. 7 with thousands of motorcyclists traveling a 60-mile route through Fairfield County.

The annual event honors those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 attacks, first responders who gave their lives, and those who continue to serve. “That’s why we ride,” said founder and executive director Fred Garrity Jr.

The motorcade, which features a police escort, will depart Sherwood Island State Park in Westport around 11:30 a.m. and travel through Wilton and Georgetown before entering Redding. The procession typically causes traffic delays of 30 to 60 minutes as it passes through. In Redding, riders will travel north on Route 107 and continue north on Route 58 toward Bethel.

Registration is $30 per rider and passenger. Motorcyclists can register Sept. 6 at Captain’s Cove Marina in Bridgeport from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or the morning of the event at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport from 8:30 to 10:15 a.m.

Proceeds benefit emergency relief funds for Connecticut police officers, firefighters and two United Way chapters. More than 35 police departments and 25 fire companies will assist with safety and logistics.

Opening ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m. at Sherwood Island, followed by the motorcade’s 11:30 a.m. departure. The procession will pass through Wilton, Redding, Bethel, Newtown, Monroe, Trumbull, Fairfield and end in Bridgeport.

Roads along the route will close as the motorcade passes. Motorcyclists are not allowed to join mid-ride, and police will enforce the restriction.

Organizers expect more than 3,000 riders and large crowds of spectators. Local fire companies will display American flags and aerial ladders along the route. Residents are encouraged to line the streets with flags and patriotic colors.