MANSFIELD — Mansfield community members laced up their shoes and hopped on bikes Monday at North Lake Park, celebrating 10 million steps toward fall prevention.
The event also celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Richland B&O Trail.
The “10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls” initiative encourages older adults to stay active and raise awareness about fall prevention. Participants of all ages were invited to walk or bike along the trail throughout September.
Promoting Health and Mobility
Trae Turner, Chief of Community Living with the Area Agency on Aging, said this marks the second year the agency has hosted an event incorporating the bike trail.
“Being active helps you stay strong and prevent falls,” Turner said. “Whether you are an avid biker, walker, or this is your first time doing something like this, we just want to say thank you.
“Promoting health, wellness, and mobility is so important.”
Booths from the Area Agency on Aging and Richland Public Health were set up at the event to provide resources and information for attendees.
City Expands Trails and Amenities
Mansfield Mayor Jodie Perry welcomed attendees and highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to improve walking and biking access.
She said the trail will extend through Middle Park, near the splash pad with more improvements planned, including a frisbee gold area.
“The trail and mobility improvements are something our city takes pride in,” Perry said.
She then jokingly referenced Mansfield being the start of the bike trail unless you are from Butler, which also claims to be the start of the bike trail.
30 Years of the Richland B&O Trail
Richland County Park B&O and Trail Manager, Joshua Dyer, said the trail turns 30 this year.
To celebrate, participants will follow a reverse of the original park opening route, starting at North Lake Park at 9 a.m. on Saturday and traveling down the trail to each community along the way.
“The park district has been celebrating all month, and the festivities finish this Saturday,” Dyer said.
(Pictures from the “10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls” initiative. Picture credit: Hannah Martin)
