ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell leaders are set to vote on a contract Wednesday that will pave the way for a large, international bike festival to come to town.
Gran Fondo Italia, which has held events in cities such as New York, Beverly Hills, and Jerusalem, plans to hold a two-day event October 19 in the north Fulton city, Mayor Jere Wood told Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik.
“The ride would begin Sunday morning,” Wood said. “Ride to the top of Jasper, Burnt Mountain and back.”
Wood said the ride is modeled after a stage of the Italian version of the Tour De France, and will include courses that begin at 34 miles and go as long as 106 miles.
“The immediate economic impact of a project like this is hard to measure,” said Wood. “What you look for is the culture, the environment it creates and this would become an annual event.”
Wood said the event would culminate with a large festival-like party on Canton Street in downtown Roswell.
Wednesday, the City Council is scheduled to vote on a contract with the Southern Bicycle League in order to bring the event to Roswell.
“The beginning will be on city property and they’ll have to have city support with police, EMS and traffic control,” said Wood. “It’s really looking for support from the city, not a financial contribution, but in-kind support.”
Cyclist and bike store owner Michael Horwitz told Petchenik he’s excited about the large event.
“It’s wonderful. It gets people out on bikes,” said the Alpha Bikes store owner. “The promoter’s gonna put together lots of fun activities. It’s family-friendly, and it’s just a good way to have cycling in the community.”
For more information on the event, click here.