'Fun Ride' to Tour Dunedin's Artistic Bicycle Racks

The city is inviting Dunedin's bicycle enthusiasts on an fun ride bicycle tour on Tuesday evening.

Matthew Campbell, assistant to the city manager, who is spearheading a project to construct connections from the Pinellas Trail at Michigan Boulevard through Highlander Park and to other parts of the city, wants to celebrate May — National Bicycle Month — with an eight-mile "fun ride" to view artistic bike racks throughout town.

Campbell, who is leading the ride, said he plans to visit the following racks:

• Hammock Park butterfly
• The Caladesi Mobil pirate ship 
• Walt's 1/2 fish
• The library books
• First Presbyterian gate
• The original 'Joe Kokolakis' fish opposite Stirling Commons
• Locomotive at Oak Tree plaza

The social ride is open to bicycle riders of any age. Helmets are mandatory, and children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Campbell does caution riders that some stretches may not be suitable for children on a single-speed bike. 

"The first portion of the route will be out and back, potentially enabling some riders the option of participating in only a portion of the ride," Campbell explains.

The trail spur project for a north Dunedin route is the first phase of the city's "Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan" to better connect the town.

Construction on the first phase could begin as early as the fall, pending commission approval. The project is expected to be voted on by commissioners sometime this month. (Read more about the north route plan here.)

Want to Go?

Campbell shared the following details about the fun ride:

• When: 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 
• Where: Meet in the the parking lot across the Dunedin Brewery at 6 p.m.; group departs at 6:20 p.m.
• Distance/Route: Approximately eight miles along the Pinellas Trail and some smaller, local roads, streets and sidewalks to minimize vehicle traffic. Riders are advised that they ride at their own risk. 
• Pace: Beginner to intermediate (less than 15 mph)

Need a bicycle? No problem. Energy Conservatory Bike Shop and Dunedin Cyclery provide 24-hour bicycle rental service.

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