It seems like just days rather than seven months ago when the Bicycle Coalition of Maine announced that sixth annual BikeMaine event would be coming to Aroostook County and that Presque Isle would be the primary host city. Now, the big day is literally a few days away.
On Saturday, Sept. 8, 450 bicyclists (some also bringing families) and 75 BikeMaine staff members and volunteers will arrive in town to take part in a weeklong bike trek through our community and The County.
There are a few important things everyone needs to know. On the morning of Sunday, Sept. 9, the participants will depart the BikeMaine Village and ride up State Street as they head to their next destination. The bicyclists will be crossing Main Street at the State Street intersection primarily between 8 and 9 a.m., so we ask for your patience.
The public is invited to cheer the cyclists on (I mean, really, have YOU ever tried to bike up State Street hill?) by lining the sidewalks along the street. Bring cowbells if you have them.
There will also be a bike skills course being put on that morning, free of charge, for children primarily in the third grade. The skills course is similar to an obstacle course, all done on bicycles with no pedals. The bicycles and helmets will be provided by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. The event is co-sponsored by the City of Presque Isle Fire Department and will take place in the Public Market Pavilion parking lot along Riverside Drive from 8 to 11 a.m.
Statistics tell us that this event will bring over $650,000 into the local economy. The individuals participating in the BikeMaine event are exactly the right demographic that might return to the area for a real vacation after the event, providing they have a great experience while they are here.
So, let’s remember to share the road, and to all practice our best customer service and host skills while they are in town.
Kimberly Smith is the resource development and public information officer for the city of Presque Isle. She can be reached at 760-2722 or via email at ksmith@presqueisleme.us.
