Laredo Public Health Announces Free Biciclovia Bike-Ride Weekend
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Laredo Public Health Announces Free Biciclovia Bike‑Ride Weekend – A Community‑Building Opportunity for All Ages
On Friday, December 5, 2025, Laredo Public Health (LPH) issued a community‑wide invitation to participate in a free “Biciclovia” (bike‑walk) event this coming weekend. The initiative, part of LPH’s ongoing “Move for Health” series, will run over Saturday, December 9, and Sunday, December 10, with two distinct bike‑ride routes that cater to both novice and experienced cyclists. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on each day, with a special “Family Fun” segment at 10 a.m. that includes a short, low‑impact circuit suitable for children and seniors.
The Biciclovia concept has become popular throughout Texas and other states, encouraging people to ride, walk, or jog along designated streets that are temporarily closed to motor traffic. The Laredo edition is no exception: it will close the stretch of County Road 14 from the Laredo River to the historic Laredo Museum District, providing a safe, pollution‑free corridor for community members to enjoy the outdoors. The route is approximately 4.5 miles long, traversing several landmarks—including the San José del Río de la Laredo City Hall, the downtown “Art & Culture” zone, and the Laredo Riverwalk. LPH has partnered with the City of Laredo’s Parks & Recreation Department to secure the necessary permits and traffic‑control personnel.
Registration and Logistics
Because the Biciclovia is free, LPH has opted for a virtual registration system hosted on the city’s event portal, “LaredoEvents.com.” Prospective participants can register by simply entering their name, phone number, and an optional email address to receive the daily route map and safety briefing. There is no cost for a bike or helmet, but LPH strongly encourages riders to bring their own, or they can borrow a community‑bike loaner from the Laredo Public Library’s “Bike Share” program—details of which are posted on the LPH website under “Community Resources.” After registration, riders will receive a QR‑coded pass that will be scanned at the start/finish line to confirm eligibility for the post‑ride health check station.
LPH’s spokesperson, Dr. Maria Torres, emphasized the importance of safety: “All participants will be required to wear a helmet and will receive a brief safety orientation at the beginning of the event. We’ve also coordinated with local police to ensure that emergency response teams are on standby along the route.” The event will also feature a “Bike‑Maintenance Workshop” where volunteers will demonstrate simple repairs and maintenance checks, such as fixing a flat tire or adjusting brakes.
Health Benefits and Community Impact
The Biciclovia event is more than a leisurely ride—it’s a public‑health intervention aimed at addressing chronic conditions that affect Laredo residents. According to the LPH’s 2025 Community Health Assessment, approximately 18% of adults in the city suffer from hypertension, and the average physical activity level falls short of the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. LPH’s “Move for Health” series, of which Biciclovia is a flagship component, seeks to increase daily activity levels, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce obesity rates by making active transportation accessible and fun for everyone.
In addition to the health angle, LPH highlighted the environmental benefits of the event. By encouraging cycling, the Biciclovia helps cut down on vehicular emissions, contributing to a cleaner air quality index in Laredo. LPH will also distribute educational pamphlets about the environmental impact of motor traffic and the advantages of active commuting.
Community Partnerships and Resources
The event is made possible through a partnership between LPH, the City of Laredo, the Laredo Tourism Board, and local nonprofits such as the “Laredo Bike Coalition.” A series of community “Bike‑Safety” ambassadors will be stationed along the route to assist with navigation and safety protocols. LPH’s website links to a “Bicycle Safety” page that includes a PDF guide, video tutorials, and a list of recommended local bike shops.
For those interested in deeper involvement, the Laredo Bike Coalition has a separate volunteer sign‑up sheet on their site, where participants can join the planning committee for next year’s Biciclovia. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a bike, a child, or a friend to foster a supportive network around active living.
What to Expect on the Weekend
- Saturday (Dec 9): 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Main route (4.5 mi) with a free health check station at the finish line.
- Sunday (Dec 10): 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Family‑friendly circuit (2.5 mi) featuring a “Kids’ Bike‑Safety” station and a photo booth for group pictures.
The event will also feature a short “Health & Wellness” talk by LPH’s Director of Community Health, followed by a “Community Café” where local vendors will offer light snacks and hydration stations. A “Thank‑You” ceremony will close each day, with LPH distributing a commemorative Biciclovia badge to all participants.
How to Stay Updated
LPH encourages residents to follow the event updates via their official social‑media handles: @LaredoPH on Twitter and Instagram. Live streaming of the event’s highlights will be available on LPH’s Facebook page, and a dedicated YouTube playlist will host instructional videos for cyclists of all skill levels. For additional logistical details, the LPH website hosts a “FAQ” page addressing topics such as weather policies, pet policy, and how to access the event map.
In Summary
The Laredo Public Health’s free Biciclovia event this weekend offers a unique opportunity for residents to engage in a community‑focused, health‑promoting activity that is accessible, safe, and environmentally conscious. With the support of local partners, the event not only provides a structured route for cycling but also offers ancillary benefits—health screenings, bike‑maintenance workshops, and educational resources—that make it an all‑round initiative for fostering healthier lifestyles. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a family looking for a fun outing, or a newcomer to Laredo interested in exploring the city on two wheels, the Biciclovia is open to all. Don’t miss out on the chance to pedal your way to a healthier tomorrow—register today, show up this weekend, and ride for your well‑being.
Read the Full KGNS-TV Article at:
[ https://www.kgns.tv/2025/12/05/laredo-public-health-hosting-free-biciclovia-event-this-weekend/ ]