PVPC kicks off National Bike Month with community events

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) is leading a region-wide celebration with a calendar of events in honor of National Bike Month.

This month-long initiative promotes bicycling as a healthy, sustainable, and accessible mode of transportation by partnering with local governments, businesses, and advocacy organizations.

What began years ago as a modest Bike Commute Week has expanded into a full, vibrant calendar of events across the Pioneer Valley, reflecting a growing commitment to biking and active transportation in western Massachusetts.

Throughout the month, PVPC and its partners will host a range of inclusive activities, from group rides and educational workshops to bike-friendly breakfasts and community festivals, designed to engage residents of all ages and skill levels.

Here’s a snapshot of events scheduled for the first week of May:

• East Longmeadow: Ladies Road Ride, Wednesday, May 7, 5:30 p.m., Competitive Edge Shop
• Springfield: Finish the Rail Trail Presentation, Thursday, May 8, 12:15-1:30 p.m., The Museums
• Amherst: Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Public Engagement Table, Saturday, May 10 at 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Sustainability Festival at the Town Commons
• Northampton: Birding By Bike, Saturday, May 10, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Veterans Field
• Northampton: (DIY) Bike Fixing Bike Lab, Saturday, May 10 at 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Northern Ave.

PVPC hopes the events will inspire more residents to consider biking for transportation and recreation, and encourage long-term investment in bike-friendly infrastructure across the region.

Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming events and share feedback on local biking infrastructure. A full event calendar is available on pvpc.org.