Apparently, April is the month of the bicycle in Ballard, as several events are geared toward life on two wheels. Learn about greenways, bicycle to the annual Pedaler's Fair and go on a bicycling rain garden tour.
Ballard Greenway Open House
What: Within the past year or so, NW 58th St has become synonymous with the new bicycle-and-pedestrian friendly Ballard Greenway project. Now, the Seattle Department of transportation will be hosting its second open house on the subject. If anyone went to the last one back in October, they'll remember the informative presentation, outspoken criticism and a chance to discuss with city officials in small groups.
Recently, the Seattle Department of transportation sent out a letter to community members about progress on the greenway and what to expect next.
Where: Ballard High School Cafeteria (1418 NW 65th St)
When: Thursday, April 11, 6-7:30 p.m.
More info: http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/ballardgreenway.htm
Critical Lass Rides to Pedaler’s Fair (Saturday, April 20, 10 am at Ballard Locks)
Critical Lass is a leisurely paced, social ride for women. This month they will ride to Pedaler’s Fair, an annual marketplace for Washington based, bicycle-inspired small businesses.
From Critical Lass: "Our leisurely-paced six mile ride will take us through the Magnolia train yard and along the beautiful Elliott Bay Trail. We'll use the new West Thomas Street Overpass (where we'll pause for pictures if the weather cooperates) and then make our way to the International Fountain where Robin Randels from Cascade Bicycle Club will give us a quick overview of her Urban Cycling Techniques course that we'll then put into use for our descent into Belltown."
Where: Meet at the Ballard Locks (3015 54th St NW) at the water's edge -- WALK YOUR BIKE when you arrive at the gate to avoid a hefty fine.
When: Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m.
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/424916674267592/
Earth Day Green Ride (Sunday, Apr 21, 12-2 pm, Ballard Commons Park)
What: Tour local rain gardens and solar installations with Sustainable Ballard, Ballard Greenways and Spokespeople. There will be two bike rides – a guided 8-mile tour starting at noon and a 3-mile, family-friendly Kidical Mass ride leaving at 2 pm. There will also be maps at Ballard Commons Park for self-guided biking and walking tours.
Where: Ballard Commons Park (Across from Ballard Branch Library)
When: Sunday, April 21, 12-2 p.m.
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/446146225460546/
Greenways in Crown Hill?
Speaking of greenways, there's a faint pulse of interest in the Crown Hill neighborhood up north. At their April meeting, the Crown Hill Neighborhood Association will be hosting a speaker from the Ballard Greenway to see how Crown Hill might adopt a greenway of their own.
Where: Crown Hill Center (9250 14th Ave NW, Rm. 4)
When: Monday, April 22, 7:15 p.m.
More info: http://crownhillneighbors.org/wp/2013/04/greenways-in-crown-hill-presen…
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