Community rides more than 140,000 kilometers to promote active transportation and sustainability.
More than 4,500 individuals took part in Kelowna and Central Okanagan’s Spring GoByBike Week, culminating on June 6, marking a record-breaking year with over 140,000 kilometers ridden and 30,000 trips logged on gobybikebc.ca.
Suzanne Therrien, Transportation Planner, expressed excitement over the strong participation, emphasizing the event’s impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30,000 kilograms within a week. ‘Events like these highlight how small, everyday decisions—such as biking to work or school—can substantially benefit the environment and community health,’ she said.
Participants were encouraged to cycle to various destinations such as work, school, or for leisure. They were welcomed at 25 celebration stations and community locations to register for prizes, collect giveaways, provide feedback on city bike plans, and engage in activities throughout the week.
More than 1,100 cyclists passed through daily celebration stations at Pandosy Waterfront Park, Mission Creek Greenway, and the Railside Brewery wrap-up event. Additionally, 30 schools in the region participated, with hundreds of students opting to cycle to class.
Local sponsors played a vital role by hosting events, maintaining community stations, and supplying prizes for daily giveaways.
Cycling remains a popular, environmentally friendly way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active, aligning with Kelowna’s sustainability goals. The city offers over 400 kilometers of bike lanes and multi-use paths, encouraging residents to explore biking year-round.
For updates on upcoming GoByBike Week events and local prize winners, visit GoByBikeBC.ca.