Bike Week 2018 starts next week and here in the Exchange District we have lots going on!
With over 100 historic buildings within a 30-block radius the Exchange is one of the most walkable areas in the city. We are filled with unique shops, inspired local restaurants, arts and culture, and it’s such a stunning walk through our area to take it all in.
With new bike lanes currently under construction we are excited about the potential to make this area more walkable and bikeable than ever before! Here are some of the things we are doing to help support your active transportation to the Exchange District….
Bike Week Activities
Bike Pit Stop
Our Exchange District Bike Pit Stop will be located in Stephen Juba Park, at Waterfront and Bannatyne, and we are excited to be joined by many of the great local businesses in the neighbourhood.
Natural Cycle – bike tune ups
Acorn Café at Generation Green – Matcha Lemonade
Bronuts – Bronuts, coffee, water
Anchor Massage – on the spot massages
AVEDA – helmet hair touch ups
Number Ten Architectural Group – watermelon, granola bars, bananas
Exchange District BIZ – cycling maps, map and tour brochures, information about the area
*Music provided by Natural Cycle’s bike jam audio system.
When: June 18, 6:30 – 9:00am
For more information about Bike Week Pit Stops click here.
Bike Week Transportation Panel:
Getting Around in the Original Downtown
Getting Around in the Original Downtown: Bring your ideas (and your lunch) to our bike week transportation panel!
In celebration of Bike Week (June 18-24), we’d like to take some time to reflect on how transportation networks have evolved in the Exchange District, and discuss ideas and opportunities for active transit and to build a supportive environment for all modes of transportation used in the area.
What: Bring your lunch, and join us for a summer picnic to chat transportation! Our picnic panel will kick-off the discussion, and open the conversation around walking, cycling, and transit in the Exchange. We will explore what is needed in the area to support a culture of sustainable transportation for businesses, residents, and the areas many cultural events. We will also discuss how can the BIZ can continue to support you to move around via whatever mode you choose.
Where: Stephen Juba Park
When: Wednesday, June 20th 12:00pm-1:00pm (Panel) 1:00pm-1:30pm (Ideas Exploration)
Panelists include:
Will Belford – Natural Cycle/Bike Jams
Thom Sparling – Creative Manitoba
Phil Mikulec – Peg City Car Co-op
Bob Somers– Scatliff Miller Murray
Lynne Stefanchuk – Jazz Fest Winnipeg
Angela Mathieson – Centure Venture
David Pensato – Exchange District Biz
What to Bring? We’ll have picnic blankets for you to sit to eat your lunch, chill out and relax on. All you’ll have to do is come on down to Stephen Juba park, bring your lunch and your ideas.
Active Transportation Initiatives
First Fridays Bike-In
Ever thought you’d like to bike into the Exchange District but weren’t sure if there was a safe and easy route to get there?
You don’t actually have to be a major cycling person to do it!
On the First Friday of July, August, and September, we’ll be biking in from three different locations to show you the best route that takes you out of traffic and into the City’s most culturally rich monthly event.
In partnership with Natural Cycle, we’ll be leading three, low-key rides on the First Friday of July, August, and September to show you how you can get into the Exchange District while almost entirely avoiding motor vehicle traffic— and we’ll share the tips and tricks that can make riding your bike into the Exchange District a really enjoyable experience along the way.
With pick up stops along the route, you can meet the group where it is most convenient for you and join the ride!
July 6th: Starting from Assiniboine Park
August 3rd: Starting from Crescent Drive Park
September 7th: Starting from Gateway at Chief Peguis
All rides start at 7pm.
Once in the Exchange you can enjoy First Fridays in the Exchange, grab a bite to eat, explore the shops and galleries, and take in the area. A group will ride back out at 10pm, for those who want some help on their way back home.
First Fridays is one of the most exciting monthly events in the City, with artists and galleries throughout the Exchange District opening their doors into the evening, and even local businesses getting into the act!
The Exchange District is already a remarkably walkable area filled with art galleries, shops, local restaurants, pubs, cocktail bars— not to mention some of the most popular summer events in the City. And with new cycling infrastructure being installed this summer, it’s well on its way to becoming the City’s most bike-friendly area.
Wayfinders
We’ve hired two new staff that will be here all summer to answer questions and help you navigate the area. Keep an eye out for them on their bikes!