Irvine will hold its first “ciclovia” event this year—temporarily blocking off a main street and inviting cyclists and walkers to enjoy a car-free zone—after the idea was approved unanimously by the Irvine City Council April 11.
Councilman Larry Agran, who along with colleague Kathleen Treseder agendized the motion, said the event would allow “people of all ages and abilities to engage with their neighbors in a lively way, increasing social interactions and community engagement.”
Other cities that hold such an event include Los Angeles, Garden Grove, Encinitas, Long Beach, San Francisco, San Antonio, New York City, Toronto, and many more.
“The concept is a unique and enjoyable event involving vendors of all kinds, music [and] food opportunities,” Agran said, noting that cyclists, pedestrians, or any people-powered forms of transportation are welcome.
Treseder said the idea was brought to her by students and young people living in Irvine.
“I think it would inspire people to bike more so I’m all in favor of it,” she said.
Founder of the Bicycle Club of Irvine, Bill Sellin spoke in support of the event during public comments.
“It’s great exposure for all motorists to look at how much fun people are having out of cars,” he said. “It’s so much fun that people start thinking twice about using their bicycle as active transportation, or their feet, or the rollerblades, or the skateboards, or other ways of non-motorized traffic.”
During the meeting, city staff estimated the event would cost around $200,000 for key expenses such as road closures, marketing, food trucks, stages, music, equipment rentals, staffing, and for street maintenance.
The potential route will be around 2 miles, with parking available nearby, according to city staff, which now has 90 days to finalize details, which will be subject to council approval.
