The Village Board voted Thursday to co‑sponsor Bridal Riverside monthly bike rides in 2025 and to absorb event insurance and public safety costs estimated at roughly $2,100 for the season.
Manager Andrew Francis and staff described the application from resident organizer Valerie Kramer. Francis said the event is free to Riverside residents and that staff have coordinated with Parks & Rec and Police on logistics. He told the board that the village would provide insurance and estimated costs “approximately $2,100 between police and community service officer services,” and said staff will work to minimize impacts on commuters while providing a safe route.
Kramer has organized monthly rides previously and staff said the village would provide an officer to lead the ride and an officer or community service officer to trail and create a buffer between cyclists and motorists. The application lists Valerie Kramer and the Village of Riverside as co‑sponsors.
The motion to approve the special event application passed on roll call (Trustee Mateo, Trustee Marshaszka, Trustee Clarity, Trustee Evans and Trustee Gallegos voted Aye). Trustees and staff thanked Kramer for organizing the rides and noted the community and public safety benefits of coordinated events.
Ending: The rides will be held the second Friday of each month through the summer, gathering at Guthrie Park; staff will proceed with co‑sponsorship, insurance, and event coordination.