Tucson, AZ (February 14, 2024) – Tucson’s favorite block party, Cyclovia Tucson, will be missing from the lineup of events this spring, while Living Streets Alliance—the organization behind the event—explores what the future might hold for car-free, care-free streets.
Living Streets Alliance (LSA) is a Tucson-based nonprofit organization working to transform Tucson’s streets into vibrant places that bring people together and provide safe, accessible, and attractive transportation options.
“We just finished a fourteen month-long strategic planning process and have big plans for the future of our Open Streets program—which Cyclovia Tucson is a part of—as well as advocacy initiatives to create safer and complete streets, better transit, and provide Safe Routes to School across the city,” says Emily Yetman, founder and Executive Director.
Open Streets is a concept that largely originated out of Bogotá, Colombia in the 1970s and has taken shape around the globe. Open Streets events temporarily close a section of public streets to cars and open them up to people to walk, bike, socialize, and play. Cities like Portland, Madison, New York, and Atlanta all have Open Street programs as a free and ongoing public service.
“We know people love and value the Cyclovia Tucson ‘open streets’ experience. Open Streets are a service to the community, bringing car-free, carefree public space to life for all to enjoy. Tucsonans deserve them and we want them to happen in more parts of Tucson, more often!” adds Yetman.
Living Streets Alliance reports that event expenses have increased significantly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, in some cases tripling in price. They’re calling on the Tucson community to show up and show their love and support for Cyclovia by donating, buying some merchandise, or signing up as a food vendor, sponsor, or volunteer for the next event.
Cyclovia Tucson will be back in the Fall. Mark your calendar for the 21st event which will take place on Sunday, October 27th and follow Cyclovia Tucson and Living Streets Alliance on social media for updates.
Living Streets Alliance envisions streets as living public spaces that connect people to places and to each other; a Tucson where people move through the city with dignity and ease, no matter who they are or how they get around. Learn more at livingstreetsalliance.org
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