News Article
New Downtown Bike Pumps Installed
by Ally Gill
On Monday, April 7th, GCC Board members Jayson O’Mahoney, Todd Leedy, and I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially welcomed 2 new bike pumps for public use in downtown Gainesville. Under beautiful sunny skies, we joined representatives from Alachua County Emerging Leaders (ACEL), who spearheaded the project, and other representatives from the City of Gainesville, Alachua County, and the Gainesville Community Redevelopment Agency. The downtown bike pump project, initiated by Marilyn Headley of ACEL, was the result of a year-long process that involved a collaborative effort between ACEL and downtown business leaders, local nonprofits, and private donors. Foresight Construction generously donated their input and labor for the actual installation of the pumps.
Gainesville Cycling Club was among the project’s many supporters, and our Club donated $200 to help with funding. County Commissioner Susan Bottcher spoke at the ribbon-cutting event, and commended the bike pump installation as an example of how public-private collaboration can facilitate improvements that benefit our community. Commissioner Bottcher also emphasized how the bike pumps are right in line with our County’s goal of making Gainesville more bikeable and walkable.
On April 7th, ACEL President Andrew Romero cut the red ribbon with a surprisingly sharp pair of giant scissors, and the long wait was over. Downtown Gainesville just became that much more bike-friendly!
Two heavy-duty Dero Air Kit 3 pumps have been installed, one near the Hippodrome, and the other at 1st AVE and Main ST. The Air Kit 3 features sturdy construction, powder-coated finish, an easy-to-read pressure gauge, smooth pumping action, and accommodates both Schrader and Presta valves. I had the honor of topping off the air in my Surly’s tires with the ceremonial “first pump.” I give the pump 2 thumbs-up!
Click here for the article about the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Look for them next time you are downtown, tell your friends, and take pride in GCC’s involvement.