YMCA, Sandusky County Public Health launch Bike Share

        The YMCA of Sandusky County and Sandusky County Public Health have launched Cycle Sandusky County, a free bike sharing program for residents and guests of Sandusky County.
        The new community program is funded by Sandusky County Public Health’s Creating Healthy Communities Grant and was made possible through a collaboration among several local organizations, including the YMCA of Sandusky County, Sandusky County Public Health, TRIPS, Spokelife Cycles and The Sandusky County Visitors Bureau.
        Borrowing a bike from Cycle Sandusky County is easy and free; residents and guests can borrow a bike for the day at the YMCA of Sandusky County, located at 1000 North St., Fremont, during normal business hours.
        The program is open to ages 12 and up; youths under 18 will need to be accompanied by a guardian on their first visit. Borrowers will need to bring a photo ID and put a payment method on file at the Y in case of damage or late returns.
        “The YMCA of Sandusky County is excited to collaborate with the health department and these other great community partners to bring this program to life in our county. This program, open to our entire community, aligns perfectly with our mission to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all,” said BJ Duckworth, senior director of operations at the YMCA of Sandusky County. “This program is designed to help increase physical fitness and active transportation while offering an affordable option to those who may not be able to afford a bike or those who want to explore biking before investing in their own equipment. The Y is committed to being a collaborative organization focused on strengthening our community.”
        “We were excited when the YMCA agreed to partner with us on this new initiative. Reducing the burden of chronic disease is one of the health department’s top priorities. Cycle Sandusky County offers our community and guests a free and fun way to engage in physical activity. Bike lending programs are also designed to promote the local economy. With the help of the Visitors Bureau, we created an interactive trail map for borrowers to reference that shows bicycle friendly routes to various local restaurants, businesses, and recreation areas,” said Ally Smith with Sandusky County Public Health.
        “The Creating Healthy Communities Program of Sandusky County Public Health is pleased to be able to support the community and help provide more opportunities for active living and transportation,” said Laura Bogard, Creating Healthy Communities Program Coordinator.
        For more information on Cycle Sandusky County, contact the YMCA of Sandusky County at 419-332-9622 or visit sanduskycounty.org/bikeshare.