More than 400 participants, riders and volunteers gathered on the main campus of Jackson State University for the 3rd annual Cruising the Community event Friday, July 31, for children up to 18 years old.
The three-mile event, co-sponsored by the City of Jackson, welcomed adventurers on various types of wheels – bicycles, scooters, wagons, wheel chairs and skateboards.Heather Wilcox, JSU’s neighborhood development assistant for the Center for University-Based Development, said the outing aimed to “expose youths to safe routes for biking and walking and raise awareness about safety.”
Wilcox said the university provides a haven for fun activities because of its convenient amenities for walking and biking and its proximity to the Dr. Robert Smith Sr. Parkway. Smith served as grand marshal and led youths on bikes as they toured the campus and vicinity.
Also, Jackson Mayor Tony Yarber acknowledged the crowd and thanked JSU for providing a safe environment for recreational activities and promoting healthy lifestyles.
With support from community and corporate sponsors, young participants were provided with free helmets, T-shirts and lunch.