Georgia Rides To The Capitol
1,000 Cyclists Take to the Streets for Improved Cycling Facilities and Programs
Over 1,000 cyclists including Roswell Mayor Jere Wood and Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin took to the streets of north Georgia yesterday. They bicycled to the State Capitol in support of improved conditions for all types of bicycling in Georgia.

The bike ride, called Georgia Rides To The Capitol, started at Roswell City Hall and traveled 21 miles down Roswell Road, Piedmont Street, and Courtland Street before stopping at the State Capitol in downtown Atlanta. The riders had a full police escort including a lead group of 14 police motorcycles and a police helicopter overhead.

“The ride was a show-of-force raising the voices of cyclists in Georgia. Our Governor and state legislators needed to be reminded that bicycling is an important form of transportation; a good economic development and tourism tool; a great way to maintain health and fitness; and a superb sport and family recreation activity. It is key that the state support improved facilities and programs” said David Crites, Executive Director of Georgia Bikes!

Speaking at the event were State Senators Dan Moody and David Adelman, State Representatives Jan Jones and Harry Geisinger, and Mayor Wood (who conceived the ride). They welcomed and praised the cyclists and indicated that the event raised the bicycling consciousness under the “Gold Dome.” Also on hand were Representative Don Wix, Mayor Franklin, and Decatur City Commissioner Fred Boykin.

State Representative Jan Jones shakes hands with Mayor Jere Wood of Roswell as State Senator Dan Moody and State Representative Harry Geisinger look on. Mayor Wood is suited up for the ride.

Georgia Rides To The Capitol was staged by the City of Roswell, Jim Burt of Surge Sports, Bike Roswell!, and Georgia Bikes! The event was sponsored by Willy’s Mexicana Grill, Roswell Bicycles, CycleWorks, and Georgia Multisports Productions. For more information, please visit www.RoswellGov.com, www.BikeRoswell.com, and www.GeorgiaBikes.org.

All photos copyright and courtesy of David Crites Executive Director of Georgia Bikes.
Helping make Georgia great for cycling!