CoMo Bike Co-op Open House set for Dec. 18

The City of Columbia is taking one giant pedal forward in becoming a more bicycle-friendly community. Columbia Parks and Recreation, in partnership with the GetAbout Columbia project, is hosting an open house from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 18 to celebrate the opening of the CoMo Bike Co-Op at the Armory Sports Center, 701 E. Ash St. A short program will be held at 9:45 a.m. Attendees will have an opportunity to view the facility and hear about planned programs.

The Co-Op's mission is to increase transportation independence through bicycle ridership, especially among Columbia's most underserved individuals. The primary focus is the Earn-a-Bike program where students ages 13-18 will learn valuable social and employment skills while repairing donated bicycles. 

After successful completion of 20 hours of volunteer time, participants will be provided with a refurbished bicycle, helmet, lights and a lock. Limited, pro-bono bike repair services will be offered on select days and at community events hosted in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods. The refurbished classroom space will also serve as a location for bicycle education and maintenance classes. 

The official opening day for the Co-Op is Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018. Initially, the Co-Op will be open limited hours with future plans to expand. For additional information about the program, contact Janet Godon at (573) 441-5495 or [email protected].