On Wednesday night, Bostonians and biking enthusiasts will descend upon Boston City Hall to kick off the city’s second annual Ride of Silence. All are welcome to partake in the event, which pays homage to those killed by motor vehicles while cycling.
Though Boston is increasingly taking steps to improve bike safety, cyclists are still at risk. Back in April, Eoin McGrory was riding his bike in Charlestown when he was struck and killed in a hit-and-run. When we consider these tragic incidents on a national level, naturally, the statistics skyrocket at an alarming rate.
According to the latest report by the League of American Bicyclists, between February 2011 and February 2013 the Fatality Analysis Reporting System “captured 628 fatalities overall and 552 in 2012 alone. In 2012, FARS reported 726 bicyclist deaths.”
The first Ride of Silence took place in Dallas in 2003 to commemorate Larry Schwartz, who was struck and killed by a school bus. Through word of mouth and email chains, a gathering that would become the Ride of Silence took place. The event was so inspiring and echoed so soundly amongst locals over 1,000 people attended.
The Boston Ride of Silence Facebook event page notes that the five-mile silent procession through the streets of The Hub will begin at City Hall Plaza, wind through the Back Bay, and return. They also suggest you don yourself in white with black trim, or wear an armband, as part of the cause.
For those tentative about joining in, fret not. Though the Ride of Silence is sure to attract some cycling pros, they’re not about to turn this into a competition. The Facebook page notes further that they ride along steadily, “less than 12 mph.”
The page also gives a warm welcome to Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and his team of constituent politicos for doing their part to ensure the utmost safety for bikers.
BostInno reached out to City Hall to see if the mayor will be in attendance, and willing to set off on a bike of his own, but nobody was immediately available to comment.
If you plan on participating, the event will meet at the southern portion of City Hall plaza due to ongoing construction in the area. Cyclists will gather by the Bill Russell statue at approximately 6:45 p.m. and commence their ride at 7:00 p.m.
