Tour LaBonge Begins

About 75 riders gathered at the City Hall South Lawn for the first of five summer evening bike rides sponsored and led by Councilmember LaBonge.

About 75 cyclists rode between skyscrapers, through tunnels and across the bridges of downtown Los Angeles last night as Councilmember LaBonge launched his third annual summer bike ride series.
The ride, which began and ended at City Hall, promoted cycling as a cheap, environmentally friendly and healthy form of transportation. Police escorts guided riders throughout the 12-mile tour. One squad car closed off intersections so that bikers could pass safely through. A second car re-opened the intersection to traffic after bikers had passed.
"There's no better view of downtown Los Angeles than from the Sixth Street bridge," said Councilmember LaBonge as riders crossed over the historic span. "And there's no better way to really see this city than from the seat of a bicycle."
"Biking is good for the planet, good for the city and good for your waistline, too," LaBonge said.
The ride included a pitstop at Fire Station #4, where the councilmember served popsicles and water to all riders. Riders came from as far away as Northridge adn the San Gabriel Valley.
Another ride next Wednesday will explore the Wilshire area with a ride on the 4th St. Bike route.