MANSFIELD — Alan Edwards credited the community for the growing success of Bike-A-Palooza as families filled North Lake Park on Saturday for the event’s 11th year.
The free community gathering took place at North Lake Park, 625 Hope Road. Edwards serves as a community policing officer and helps organize the annual event.
City officials said Bike-A-Palooza brings families together for a day of fun, education and connection while encouraging bicycle safety and healthy outdoor activity.
Edwards thanked attendees for their strong turnout and support throughout the event.
“You should be very proud of yourselves,” he said. “It is of most importance that the community owns this event.”
He said the crowd exceeded expectations.
“This event is not possible without you. I want you to know you have been seen, you are being heard and we do have the ability to change the hearts and lives of the communities around us and today we’re doing it one bicycle at a time,” he said.
Edwards said organizers gave away 105 bicycles this year, compared to 28 last year.
“I’m so grateful for you,” he said.
“It is my distinct honor to have planned this project the past two years,” he said. “Last year we did 28 bicycles, you see where we’re at today.”
Event includes family activities and community bike ride
This year’s Bike-A-Palooza featured a Bike Ride with a Cop, a bicycle safety rodeo, bike inspections and minor repairs. Families also enjoyed bounce houses, face painting, food and entertainment.
The Mansfield Fire Department also joined in with activities for attendees.
Organizers encouraged all participants to join Mansfield police officers for a community bike ride along the B&O Trail, which began at the conclusion of the event.
(Photos from the 11th annual Bike-a-Palooza. Credit: Hannah Martin)
