The City of Las Cruces is set to transform its streets into a playground for pedestrians and cyclists alike with its upcoming Ruedas Unidas/Wheels United event. In partnership with New Mexico State University and State Representative Angelica Rubio, the city is creating an open streets initiative that prioritizes movement, health, and community engagement.
On September 21st, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Solano Drive and University Avenue will become car-free zones, allowing for a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and abilities. According to the City of Las Cruces, residents are invited "to bike, run, skate, dance, exercise, and play freely and safely in the street." This move is aimed at giving the locals a taste of streets built with pedestrians and bikers in mind.
The affair is more than just an array of physical activities; it's a creative canvas calling on participants to adorn their bikes, skateboards, and wheelchairs. Special festivities include a bike parade and a safety course, amidst a backdrop of interactive games and educational experiences provided by city departments and local non-profits. Attendees can also refuel with offerings from a variety of food vendors lined up for the event.
Mayor Eric Enriquez will spearhead the annual Mayor's Bike ride on the very same day, which is set to conclude at the Ruedas Unidas gathering at the intersection of University Avenue and Solano Drive. While the final route for the Mayor's Bike Ride is still in the works, its culmination at Ruedas Unidas promises a spectacle of community and cycling enthusiasm.
