Memphis Cyclists Rally for Safety and Improved Infrastructure
Memphis, Tenn. observed an inspiring gathering of cyclists this past Sunday as a spirited group of biking enthusiasts took to the streets. Riders from the Memphis Social Bike Club made a statement—both for safety and for better bike lanes—while enjoying the scenic route through downtown Memphis.
The Ride Through the City
With around 200 cyclists participating, the event was a grand success! The group pedaled strongly down Second Street, weaving through the bustling city, and made their way to the beautiful Riverside Park. Not only was this a chance for riders to showcase their love for cycling, but it was also an important moment to raise awareness on the need for a safer biking environment.
Finding Strength After Adversity
One of the enthusiastic organizers of the event, Judy Lansky, expressed her heartfelt connection to the cause. She shared that she, along with many others, has had a firsthand experience with the perils of biking. “We have all been hurt on the road; I have been hit by a car before, and I know a lot of my friends have you have as well,” Lansky commented. She emphasized the importance of resilience, saying, “you have to learn how to be smart.” Biking, for Lansky, is not just a hobby; it’s a commitment to reclaiming the streets.
The Call for Improved Infrastructure
Fellow organizer, Landon Blankinship, echoed Lansky’s sentiments about the pressing need for infrastructure improvement. He reminisced about a decade ago when major investments were made in building bike lanes around the city. Unfortunately, that development has not been maintained. “Bike infrastructure was a huge piece of development in this city, that has kind of tapered off in the last 5 years,” Blankinship noted. He speculated that factors such as the pandemic may have contributed to the slowdown of improvements. “Whether it is Covid related or not, a lot of cyclists here are saying, we just want that maintained,” he added.
The Power of Community
The turnout for this event clearly signified that the Memphis community stands united in advocating for cyclists’ rights and road safety. Blankinship understood the significance of having a strong number of participants, stating, “the more support they have, the stronger the message they are able to send.” The camaraderie among the bikers was evident as they rode in unison, showcasing their commitment to pushing for change.
Looking Ahead
The Memphis Social Bike Club isn’t backing down anytime soon. With enthusiasm in the air, participants expressed their hopes for the future, bringing the need for safe cycling conditions to the forefront. It’s a reminder that, like any vibrant city, Memphis needs to consider all its residents—including those who navigate through it on two wheels.
As the group finished their ride, they left a lasting impression on the city, showing solidarity and strength for not just themselves but for all cyclists in Memphis. People are beginning to notice the urgency of their message, and it’s clear that conversations about biking safety and infrastructure are more critical than ever.
With supportive advocates like Judy Lansky and Landon Blankinship leading the charge, it is apparent that Memphis is poised for a cycling evolution—one pedal at a time.
