ELIZABETH – Registration is open online for the 21st Annual Tour de Elizabeth, scheduled rain or shine for May 19, 2024. Bicyclists of all ages and skill levels will cycle through parks, pathsalongwaterways,residences,businesses, restaurants, and historic neighborhoods of Elizabeth, offering cyclists a unique perspective of New Jersey’s 4th largest city.
“What better way to spend a Sunday thanbikeridingwithfamilyandfriends,” said Mayor J. Christian Bollwage. “This year we’re celebrating 21 years of bringing cyclists of all skill levels together in Elizabeth, all while supporting Groundwork Elizabeth’s efforts for a greener and more sustainable municipality. I am looking forward to welcoming everyone for yet another safe and exciting 15 mile ride.” Cyclists come from all parts of the City, County, and even some from more distant locations come back each year to renew their affinity for the City and the event. Wayne K. Wise, born and raised in Elizabeth and a graduate of Jefferson High School comes back each year from Houston Texas. “These are my roots”, says Mr. Wise, “you never forget them”.
The event starts and finishes at City Hall, located at 50Winfield Scott Plaza. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the ride beginning promptly at 9 a.m. The first 500 registrants will receive a signature Tour de Elizabeth t-shirt and every rider will be entered into a free raffle for post event drawings. This year’s theme is “Riding with a Heart”, promoting physical health and social awareness.
To sign up, simply log on to www.groundworkelizabeth.org. Hard copy applications can also be found in Elizabeth public buildings, stores and Union County Bicycle shops, however, online registration is preferred. Riders are encouraged to register early as slots fill up quickly. All ages are welcome to join the Tour, as long as the rider can keep a moderate pace of 10 miles per hour and able to ride 15 miles – there is a break at the halfway mark. Helmets are required for all participants. Members of the Elizabeth Police Department will be on hand to escort cyclists on a route with rolling intersection closings and assist where needed.
Along with the support of Mayor J. Christian Bollwage and departments within the City of Elizabeth, assistance for the ride comes from the Union County Board of County Commissioners HEART grant, the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization (EDMO), local dedicated community nonprofits and stakeholders, with special support by Elizabethtown Gas Company. The ride is managed by Groundwork Elizabeth and part of the proceeds from the event go towards the nonprofit’sgoalsofimprovingthephysical environment and promoting environmental justice. Sponsorship opportunities are available and come with benefits for those who pledge support. For more information on the Tour, the City, and Groundwork Elizabeth’s projects and programs log on to the City website at www.elizabethnj.org,orGroundwork’s website at www.groundworkelizabeth.org. Questions can be directed to Jonathan Phillips, Groundwork Executive Director at jonathan@groundworkelizabeth.org.or by calling (908) 289-0262.
