Evergreen Neighborhood Outreach

The Evergreen neighborhood on the north side of Wichita is a culture-rich, uniquely beautiful, and historic part of our city. On Sunday, June 27, Bike Walk Wichita, Salud + Bienestar, City of Wichita District 6, and Young Latino Professionals hosted events at Evergreen Park to connect with neighbors, share some Evergreen culture, and begin the discussion of making the neighborhood more bike-walk accessible for all to enjoy. Improvements to this area are a priority of BWW’s 2021 strategic plan.

The event kicked off with a Bike Jam for all ages, consisting of bike ramps, cones, bubble wrap, instructors, and bikes. BWW Bike Jams are designed to teach riders important bike handling and safety skills. Young riders couldn’t wait for it to open up so they could ride through the course. The Stop-On-A-Dime game was a hit, which helps teach kids proper braking techniques. BWW volunteer Nancy Caroll had a crowd of kids working hard to earn those dimes.

About 40 people joined us on bikes for a slow roll through the area. Local resident and bike enthusiast, Jorge Cordova, and his family rolled up on their tricked-out bikes, turning heads with his custom-designed creations. The family’s passion for bikes was evident as they so graciously shared their custom bikes with the crowd. Cordova shared that it’s something he enjoys working on in his spare time. His bikes demonstrated that passion, impressing fellow bike enthusiasts on the ride.

It was a wonderful sight to see as the large crowd embarked on a slow roll throughout Evergreen. BWW plans to host additional rides and events in the neighborhood in the coming months.

Walking enthusiasts weren’t left out of the Evergreen fun. Young Latino Professionals hosted an Urban Hike, a walking tour of some of the artwork, culture, and history of the neighborhood. Evergreen is full of beautiful murals painted by local artists, acting as visual storyboards for the community. Tour guides and guests had a great evening taking it all in.

We can’t thank our partners, co-hosts, volunteers. and participants enough for making this such a special event! Making neighborhood connections, meeting fellow enthusiasts, and advocating for a more accessible Wichita is what BWW is all about.

If you’re an Evergreen area resident with concerns about safety, ideas on ways to improve walking and biking in your area, or want to learn more about BWW and how you can get involved, check us out @ bikewalkwichita.org/get-involved/.

Interested in becoming a Neighborhood Connector, hosting future walks and/or rides in Evergreen, or mentoring your neighbors? Email volunteer@bikewalkwichita.org for more information.

Until next time, Evergreen….