MANSFIELD — Richland Public Health’s Bike to Work Day is coming up May 20, along with a slew of activities aimed at promoting cycling as a lifestyle. But, according to Richland Public Health, that’s only part of the story.
Since 2014, RPH has received $400,000 per year in federal grant money to push back against chronic diseases and obesity thanks to an Ohio Department of Health Communities Preventing Chronic Disease Program.
The money supports three staff members and activities aimed at preventing hypertension and obesity related illnesses like diabetes.
They have worked to put fresh food in corner stores, food pantries and opportunities for increased physical activity. They have educated the community on healthy living habits and promoted active transportation.
The latter part of their effort — active transportation — has triggered an unusual partnership with Richland County Regional Planning Commission.
According to RCRPC Transportation Technical Director Todd Blankenship, active transportation projects include enhancing existing use of public transportation and improving sidewalks to better accommodate cyclists and walkers.
The more that happens, the healthier individuals become, said RPH Creating Healthy Communities Project Coordinator Karyl Price.
“It’s an unusual partnership, but it’s a good one,” she said. “Regional Planning is looking at plans and improvement projects to make more of our communities a little more connected.”
Not with a broader internet connection — with roads, pathways, bike lanes, bike racks, sidewalks and increased public transportation.
“Active transportation is a high demand, especially among younger families,” explained Price. “So regional planning (RCRCP) wants to be responsive, we’re working with them because the health department knows that how a community is designed contributes to a healthy lifestyle.”
Blankenship confirmed the two organizations are working together to lay out a strategic plan that hopefully secure more funds in the future designated to active transportation projects.
“We’re going to meet soon to make a plan that will include specific intentions with active transportation projects,” Blankenship said.
RCRPC has received around $125,000 per year, since 2014 from the Federal Highway Administration for Transportation Alternative Projects. That figure represents about 10 percent of RCRPC’s annual budget.
“So we have a little money, but if we just sprinkle here and there, it’s not enough to make a real difference,” Blankenship said, explaining the impetus behind sketching out a specific plan.
Until that plan is authored, and until grant money is available in response to the plan — RPH and groups like Richland Moves! will continue to promote activities that cater to groups who desire a more “connected” community.
“(Working with RCRPC) is a way to broaden our impact. Right now, we’re doing everything we can and making sure that all people, regardless of everything, have the chance to live a healthy life.”
Look for more activities and workshops to pop up as the weather warms, including those scheduled from May 16 through May 20.
May 16: Ride Safe — “Learn everything you need to know about riding a bike safely from bike experts in the community.”
6 – 8 p.m. in the Community Room at the Mansfield Richland County Library
May 17: Birds, Bees and Bikes — “Take a nature tour along the B&O Trail with Jason Larson, Executive Director of Gorman Nature Center.”
6 – 8 p.m. in the Lexington Civic Center
May 18: Map My Ride — “Learn how to plan a bike route that is comfortable for you with a bike mentor using mobile apps.”
6 – 8 p.m. in the Corley Room at Richland Public Health
May 19: Ride and Socialize — “Join in on a group ride through downtown as a fun and creative way to get outside and get active.”
6 – 8 p.m. in the Richland Carrousel Park
May 20: Bike to Work Day — “Rain or shine! Park your car and ride your bike to work from any of these locations: Mansfield YMCA, Catholic Charities, Mansfield Art Center, or OhioHealth Shelby Hospital.”
7 – 9 a.m. Volunteers will greet and distribute a free swag bag at locations above.
