More than 1,000 people experienced the vision for a more bikeable, walkable community at the Horizon Foundation’s third Open Streets Howard County on Oct. 1 in Ellicott City. The family-friendly event provided local residents with an opportunity to see how better street design connected to existing pathways can make getting around easier, safer and more comfortable for everyone.
This year’s route – which extended from Dunloggin Middle School and Northfield Elementary School to Dorsey’s Search Village Center – featured a portion of the Bikeway, a proposed network of routes from the Howard County Bicycle Master Plan that would connect more than half of county homes, schools and parks. The Bikeway has been endorsed by more than 1,000 people and 20 community institutions.
At Open Streets, more than 200 new supporters added their voices to the growing call for funding the Bikeway.
“Howard County once again proved how much its residents want a more bikeable and walkable community,” said Horizon Foundation President and CEO Nikki Highsmith Vernick. “Open Streets Howard County shows how healthy transportation options and projects like the Bikeway can benefit everyone, from all ages and abilities.”
The event’s opening ceremony featured remarks from County Executive Allan Kittleman. “Howard County is a great place to live,” he said. “We want to make it better.” Kittleman continued to say he is working on increasing funding for bicycling. County Council Chairman Jon Weinstein also spoke on the importance of promoting safety, biking and walking.
Attendees were able to enjoy bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure demonstrations, food trucks, kids’ activities, a bike rodeo, bike decorating, inflatable obstacle course, steel drum lessons and much more during the four-hour event.
If you would like to learn more about the Bikeway and add your voice of support, please visit www.hcbikeway.org.
