Thousands of riders will take to the roads throughout Penticton and the South Okanagan on Sunday, July 14, as part of the high-profile Okanagan Granfondo event.
The City is reminding residents to plan ahead for this major event, which will involve road closures, as well as opportunities to get involved and enjoy some free entertainment.
“We look forward to welcoming the cyclists and their supporters to Penticton, who are travelling from near and far to take part in this spectacular ride throughout the South Okanagan,” says Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “We encourage all community members to show the visitors a warm welcome and to showcase to the world what a wonderful place it is here to live and play.”
Road closures
Residents and local businesses are reminded to mark their calendars for race day on Sunday, July 14, which will involve significant road closures along Main Street and Skaha Lake Road from 5 a.m. until 5 p.m. This event begins at 6:30 a.m. on Main Street near Lakeshore Drive, and travels through Summerland, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Kaleden, before winding its way back to Penticton.
Drivers are recommended to use Channel Parkway or Government Street wherever possible. Avoid crossing Main Street if possible and be aware that some streets, including Lee Avenue, will be closed for overnight parking starting Saturday at midnight.
A road closure of Lakeshore Drive will also be required on Saturday, July 13, from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. for the free Kids’ Piccolofondo event. A section of Main Street will also be closed downtown for the Penticton Farmers’ Market and Downtown Penticton Market. Also, Main Street from Lakeshore Drive to Westminster Avenue will remain closed until 5p.m. on Sunday, July 14.
For maps and further details, visit penticton.ca/granfondo.
Ways to get involved
- Community members are invited to sign up their kids – age two to 10 years old – for the free Piccolofondo biking event. Kids will participate on a 400 m to 5 km circuit, while parents cheer them on. It’s free to enter but advanced registration required.
- Explore the Okanagan Granfondo Cycling Expo, with exhibitors and the opportunity to try out or purchase cycling gear (July 12-14).
- Sign up as a volunteer.
- Watch the high-energy ride start on Main Street Sunday morning.
For more details about each of the items above, or to sign up for the Piccolofondo or as a volunteer, visit the Okanagan Granfondo website at okanagangranfondo.com.
Reminder to businesses and hotels
Local businesses, hotel managers and owners are advised to notify their guests about the road closures and to direct them to the City’s website at penticton.ca/granfondo. A traffic notice is available online to print off for guests. The City will also have its call centre open on race day – Sunday, July 14 from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. – to answer questions about how to get around. Ph: 250-490-2345.
