Reno-Sparks Open Streets, a set of innovative health-centric events planned for July 31 and August 20, aims to encourage healthy communities by temporarily closing sections of road in downtown Reno and Sparks to car traffic and opening it up to walking, biking and more with local vendors populating the route.
These events are a collaborative effort between The City of Reno, The City of Sparks, Washoe County Health District and Reno Bike Project in an effort to spread awareness of the important of physical activity, supporting local businesses and reducing the carbon footprint.
Recently, the American Lung Association ranked Reno number 11 for most polluted air quality in the nation. This was due to short-term spikes of particulate pollution. Reno-Sparks Open Streets showcases the importance of reducing pollution in the area by removing cars from the streets and replacing them with people. Trash and recycle bins will be placed throughout the routes and event producers are encouraging attendees to go smoke-free in an effort to embrace a healthy and green lifestyle.
“This year with the help of The City of Sparks, we have grown this event from a Reno-centric experience into Sparks as well in order to foster healthier communities in both areas,” said Noah Chubb-Silverman, Open Streets co-founder. “These kind of events are a great way to help keep the air clean and simultaneously educate the public on the benefits of physical activity.”
Attendees are able to walk, bike, dance or run in the vehicle-free Reno and Sparks streets, stopping at vendors serving the hottest local food trends, offering yoga classes, dance sessions, health tips and showcasing local businesses all to experience the open streets like never before.
For more information on becoming a vendor or volunteering, check out www.RenOpenStreets.org.
About Reno-Sparks Open Streets
Reno-Sparks Open Streets is part of the Cyclovia Movement that is spreading throughout the world. Reno-Sparks Open Streets will increase the health and physical activity of residents and visitors by transforming streets in a designated area and making that space available to celebrate, walk, bike, dance and play. For more information, or to sign up as a vendor or volunteer, please contact renopenstreets@gmail.com or visit www.RenOpenStreets.org. For information on cyclovias in America visit www.openstreetsproject.org.