With the coming of spring, the Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission is running a short 5-minute survey from now until May 15 seeking residents’ opinions about biking and walking here in Wheaton. The Commission hopes to hear from a wide variety of walkers and riders. Survey submitters will be entered in a raffle for the chance to win one of four bike helmets equipped with LED. The survey is available at: https://forms.gle/4iRYHXBcwdfa1sea9
In addition, as more people are out biking, the Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission would like the community to know that there are now over 225 bike racks throughout Wheaton. A large concentration is in the downtown central business district, near the Wheaton Public Library, and near the Wheaton and College Avenue train stations. Also, there is a new bike shelter and repair station on the Prairie Path Main Stem near the corner of Liberty and Main, which is part of the City’s recently completed Downtown Streetscape Project.
The Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission was created to encourage walking and biking in Wheaton. They also provide opportunities to teach kids bike etiquette and safety each year at different events. The Commission’s mission is to represent walkers, runners, and bikers in the planning of safer streets, paths and sidewalks. In addition, the Commission organizes various group walks and bike rides throughout the area.
The commission hosts an annual history bike ride each September. This year's event will be on Sept. 16, where you can learn about Famous Women of Wheaton as you bike around the city. Residents can also access virtual rides of previous year’s history tours- The Underground Railroad and Great Fires of Wheaton - to ride on their own.
The Commission meets monthly, with its next meeting happening May 17. Members of the public can always join the meeting in person at City Hall upstairs in the Gamon Room or via Zoom. The commission is looking for more members. Those who might be interested are encouraged to attend a future meeting.