Wheels are Rolling for a Second CicLAvia
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — It's official: CicLAvia is coming back to Downtown. While the event is continuing to pick up steam, it means that the event will likely cost more to ensure a smooth, safe ride.
The first CicLAvia in October drew close to 100,000 attendees. A forseen increase in attendance after the first event's popularity and contributions from donors will eventually lead to an expansion of the original 7.5 mile route, although it will likely not take effect until October.
Planning for the expansion is a group effort, aid Amanda Berman, an Event Producer at Community Arts Resources, CicLAvia's contractor. "We're really working with community to come with the best route."
While the projected increase in attendance for future events is a step in the right direction for Downtown's revitalization efforts, LAPD and LADOT's increased personnel demands for April's ride could lead to a hike in costs to run the event.
A January 11 report from the Board of Police Commissioners was referred to the City Council, requesting approval for a more sworn personnel to patrol. According to Charlie Beck, LAPD's Chief of Police, last October's event needed more personnel to monitor traffic flow both during and after the event.
Just last month, Sprint 4G donated $10,000 to April's event, but that is only part of the massive fundraising campaign. On top of working to gain corporate sponsorship, CicLAvia has earned over $5,000 from individual donors, and seeks foundation support as well.
The other two events were announced yesterday on CicLAvia's website and are scheduled for July 10th and October 9th.
Simon Hartigan on February 03, 2011, at 11:22AM – #1
This is such a great event that will most certainly boost real estate values and interest in the area. The quality of life factor is the biggest pro. And the minimal cost this event has per person enjoying it, will get cheaper and cheaper as companies sponsor it. This event happens every Sunday in the city where it started. LA has a lack of park space, but if we view our roads as park/open space, then we're park rich! The first CicLAvia event drew close to 100,000 people, I'm excited to see how this event will go.
Xavier Grobet on February 05, 2011, at 10:38AM – #2
It happens every Sunday in Mexico city as well, it's the best event ever, it's a great way to live your City and to interact with your neighbors. it's a JOY!