Hawaii Bike Boom

You may have noticed an unexpected effect of the COVID-19 pandemic – a Hawaii bike boom! They seem to be everywhere. Possible explanations for this bike boom include commuters avoiding crowded buses, people finding an alternative to closed gyms during the pandemic and cooped-up families seeking a fun outdoor activity. Whatever the reason, the Department of Health is excited to see people on the move.

“When people were asked to limit themselves to ‘essential trips’, we were worried that some would limit their physical activity. Physical activity is definitely ‘essential,’” said Department of Health Physical Activity Coordinator, CJ Johnson. “It’s essential for reducing mild to moderate depression and anxiety and controlling weight to prevent obesity. It’s also essential for preventing and managing chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease, which are linked with increased severity of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.”

The Kalākaua Open Street Sundays pilot project hosted by the City and County of Honolulu and the Hawaii Bicycling League is providing an opportunity for residents to experience Waikīkī in a new light, by opening a stretch of Kalākaua Avenue for people to walk, wheel and bicycle, free of automobiles. The Open Street program encourages communities to experience their neighborhoods free of cars, and reimagine their potential for creating healthier, safer, more inclusive spaces.

A growing number of cities around the world such as Oakland, Calif. and Wellington in New Zealand are exploring the possibility of holding Open Street programs on a regular basis. Hawaii’s weather and geography would be ideal for this adaptation, let’s hope it follows suit. The next Kalākaua Open Street Sundays are scheduled for June 28, and July 5 on Kalākaua Avenue between Seaside Avenue and Kapahulu Avenue. The route will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 6 a.m. to noon.

For more information, visit https://www.hbl.org/openstreets/

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