The association Nice à Vélo is organizing the second edition of the “Kidical Mass” this Sunday, September 24. A sporting and festive event committed to making Nice a bike-friendly and safe city for children.
“This school term, we are expecting even greater participation, as the demand for a calm and safe city for our young citizens continues to grow,” shares Nice à Vélo in a press release. During the first edition of the “Kidical Mass” in Nice last May, the event managed to gather 94 participants, including 35 children on the streets.
Initially appearing in several major European cities, this initiative was brought to Nice by the local association, which organized the very first local edition on May 7. “Kidical Mass” combines “kid” and “Critical Mass”, a global movement organizing simultaneous cycling events in many cities on the last Friday of the month. In France, these are called “Vélorutions.”
For the adaptation of urban infrastructures
This second edition will take place this Sunday, September 24, with the same principles and motivations. The slogan is clear: “Together for a more bike-friendly and safe city for children.” Organizing a “Kidical Mass” is an activist act. It is a way to give a voice to children and young people in the public debate, showing them a future in which they can travel safely by bike, explains the association.
Nice à Vélo advocates for the right of individuals to travel safely by bike in the city at all ages on a daily basis. They see it as both an environmental and a health issue, and they campaign for it to be achieved safely.
Thus, they demonstrate for the adaptation of urban infrastructures. They suggest the implementation of measures such as “reducing traffic speed, generalizing zones limited to 30 km/h, creating reserved lanes, and securing intersections for cyclists and pedestrians.”
Activities, festive ride, and snack
So, the organizers invite interested individuals to Jardin Alsace-Lorraine, starting at 2:30 PM. Simply bring your bike, “smiles, friends, and your snack,” notes the association. Before hopping on your bike and heading out for a musical parade, there will be time for last-minute adjustments with Cyclab06 and especially for decorating your bike to make this event a festive moment for young and old alike.
The ride is scheduled to start at 3:30 PM. The program includes a five-kilometer flat route through the city’s streets. The ride is supervised by volunteers, making it suitable for all ages and levels.
Nice à Vélo reminds that helmets are mandatory for children under 12, and children must be accompanied by an adult who is responsible for them. The event will finish back at Jardin Alsace-Lorraine, where a time for sharing a friendly snack is planned to conclude the day.
