Siclovia organizers encourage safety pledge

60,000 people expected to flown Southtown streets

SAN ANTONIOSiclovia organizers are encouraging attendees to take a safety pledge before the upcoming event on March 29.

The event, which shuts down city streets to traffic for the benefit of pedestrians and cyclists, was first held in October 2011.

As it's grown, organizers have become aware of the need to remind attendees about safety.

"We usually have 60,000 plus people, and although there are no vehicles to be in the way of traffic, there's still pedestrians (or people) walking, jogging, cycling and doing a lot of wonderful health and wellness activities," said Monica Garza, director of Community Wellness for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio

This year, Siclovia will be at a new location in Southtown. It will begin at St Mary's and Alamo streets and run 2 1/2 miles to Mission Concepcion.

Garza said safety is an even bigger concern than usual because the route does include some relatively narrow streets that will be packed with people.

"We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the event, but like with any other outdoor activity, do so with safety as a No. 1 priority," said San Antonio Police Assistant Chief Jose Bañales

Organizers encourage attendees to take a safety pledge before the event that includes these tips:

  • Walkers and joggers should keep to the right while cyclists ride in the middle of the road
  • If you have to stop, move to the sidewalk
  • Use safety helmets
  • Keep a close eye on children and keep pets on a short leash

"We do encourage families to sit down, take the pledge together and then when they go out, they'll be prepared for what might be going on along the Siclovia route," said Garza.

Anyone who takes the safety pledge online at www.siclovia.org will be automatically registered for a chance to win a Trek bicycle.