Officials plan bike donation drive at West Park

Elyria and the Elyria Bicycle Education Center are hosting the second annual Elyria Bike Donation Drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 15, at West Recreation Center Garage, 1200 Foster Ave.

“Bicycles have always been a part of Elyria’s history — from some of the original saddles being innovated, designed and manufactured right in downtown Elyria to riding the beautiful trails at Cascade, Bur Oak, High Meadows, the North Coast Inland Trail and the developing trails and bike lanes across the city,” said Elyria Mayor Frank Whitfield in a news release. “However, there are still many people who lack a good bike to be able to enjoy these great amenities.

“That is why we are hosting a bicycle drive again this year encouraging residents, friends and family to donate bikes so that we can get them refurbished and back out to the public.”

Donations of new, old and used bikes and bike parts will be accepted in a drive-thru style donation drop-off, the release said.

Individuals and organizations interested in donating should enter West Park from Foster Avenue, and pull up near the old pool/ garage.

Masked volunteers will be on site to collect and organize items.

“Last year, so many people donated bikes, requested bikes or joined us for our Wednesday night Bike Nights,” the release said. “We would love to see twice as many adults and kids get bikes this year so they can enjoy Ely life.

“That is why for Pride Day on May 15, our signature project will be partnering with the Elyria Bicycle Education Center and seeking donations of bikes at West Park.”

The dynamic partnership between the city and the Elyria Bicycle Education Center began last year with the first donation drive, the release said.

Over 120 bikes were collected and distributed from July through December, concluding with a special Santa Claus distribution as Midview Crossing.

Build-A-Bike community service events were held during that time to prepare each bike for safe riding, and guided rides throughout the city were scheduled, the release said.

“We’re thrilled to continue this meaningful collaboration with the Office of the Mayor and Safety Service Director,” said Ed Stewart, director of the Elyria Bicycle Education Center. “We’re more than just a bike shop — we prioritize education, safety and training, and are excited to continue to train the next group of volunteers, new riders, and seasoned bike enthusiasts this season.”

Distribution of free bicycles to city residents will be announced once an initial batch of bikes is sorted, cleaned, repaired and deemed safe for use, the release said.

Bicycles can be purchased at discounted rates from the Elyria Bicycle Education Center, 408 Middle Ave.

“Bicycles have always been a part of Elyria’s history...” — Mayor Frank Whitfield