Young and Inexperienced Bicyclists Can Learn Bike Skills to Safely Ride in Their Neighborhoods
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball opened the new Bicycle Traffic Garden on the repurposed basketball court at Huntington Park in Columbia. Ball was joined by Department of Recreation & Parks Director Nick Mooneyhan and advocates from the bike community for today’s official ribbon cutting.
“When we talk about Columbia, a planned community, some of the things that come to people’s minds are path interconnectivity and a place to live that does not require a car to get everywhere – but rather, can be navigated by walking or biking,” said Ball. “Biking offers numerous benefits that positively impact our health, the environment, and our wallets. In a world where time and resources are precious, biking stands out as a simple, efficient and sustainable mode of transportation.”
Built for young and inexperienced riders, the colorful and interactive traffic garden teaches new riders to follow directional signs, learn safe street skills, and encourage proper etiquette when riding. A first-of-its-kind in Howard County parks, the Department hopes to find additional locations in the future for similar bike-riding experiences and wants to remind visitors that a bicycle helmet is required.
“Transforming an old basketball court that was no longer in use into Howard County’s first Bicycle Traffic Garden not only promotes sustainability, but also creates a dynamic and inclusive space for everyone,” said Mooneyhan. “It’s a testament to the positive impact that can be achieved when we reimagine existing resources through collaborations.”
This latest project at Huntington Park came together thanks to support Tom Decker, President of SealMaster-Delmarva, who donated time and money for the resurfacing of the court.
“Laying out the design and applying the color coatings for a new traffic garden on a no longer used asphalt surface utilizing an experienced sport court coating contractor will help us learn the best methods for completing future traffic garden projects in the most efficient cost-effective way,” said Decker.
Howard County also installed bicycle racks, safety bollards, trash and recycling cans, and benches as part of this project. Advocates from two local nonprofits, Bike HoCo and FreeBikes4Kidz also attended today’s event and provided free helmets.
“The Huntington Bicycle Traffic Garden represents a significant step forward in our commitment to the children of Howard County,” said Councilmember Christiana Rigby. “The traffic garden provides a safe environment where both children and adults can learn essential bicycling skills, understand traffic rules, and develop the confidence they need to safely navigate our streets, all while having a great time.”
Less than a year ago, the county officially opened a new basketball court and other improvements at Huntington Park. The relocated basketball court reduces the level of noise to nearby homes, a concern raised by residents. The three new paved pathways (totaling 3/10 of a mile) created a more inclusive experience for park goers. Other improvements include an added entrance to the playground, two park benches, two benches near the new basketball court, and a new water fountain that includes a reusable bottle filler. Lastly, a new backstop for softball and baseball games was installed on the multipurpose field.
Huntington Park is one of 30 neighborhood parks, and eight regional parks, managed and maintained by the Department of Recreation and Parks.
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