The annual Tour de Lebanon Valley recently concluded with a “great turnout” as people sought things to do in a summer of pandemic shutdowns.
In a press release, the Lebanon Valley Conservancy stated that the two-week event beginning in July brought in over $8,000, most of which is earmarked for the new bike playground under construction in Coleman Memorial Park. Initially set to begin in June, the event was pushed back to July due to COVID-19.
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In addition to other outdoor activities, bicycling has become popular during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We had many new riders experience the beauty of the county, alongside our seasoned riders,” said Nikki Maurer, Community Health Council executive director and event chair, in a press release.
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Riders had the option of three routes (62, 25, or 6 miles long) along the Lebanon Valley’s extensive farmland, streams, and historic towns and sites. The routes included wide circuits around Schaefferstown, the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, and the City of Lebanon, passing through Mt. Gretna and other hamlets along the way.
Conservancy executive director Laurie Crawford stated that “[t]his year especially, we wanted to offer a safe and fun option to get outside and take in the beauty of Lebanon.”
Those who missed out this year can mark their calendars for the next Tour, which is currently scheduled to start on June 12, 2021. The event was presented by the Conservancy, The Lebanon Valley Bicycle Coalition, and the Community Health Council of Lebanon County, with additional support from Visit Lebanon Valley.
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