Motorists in downtown Sarnia are being advised to watch for cyclists as the first annual Bluewater International Granfondo Slow Roll kicks off Friday evening.
Slow Roll Committee Chair Mike Hurry said 500 cyclists of all ages will participate in the event.
"I think it's great to be supporting another form of transportation. We have people on different types of bicycles and age groups are probably from little kids up to -- I know we have at least one 91-year-old who's coming out to participate."
Bluewater International Granfondo Slow Roll route. (Submitted Photo)
Hurry said he was pleased by the community response to this event but not shocked by it.
"I, right from the very beginning, knew that Sarnians would come out," he said.
There was no fee to participate in the event but Hurry said many organizations did put funds toward the initiative and proceeds will support Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Sarnia-Lambton and Palliative Care.
Organizers said Front Street from London Road to Wellington Street will be closed, beginning at 5 p.m.
Cyclists in orange t-shirts will meet at City Hall at around 5:45 p.m. where Mayor Mike Bradley will say a few words.
Wheels will start rolling at 6:30 p.m. The bike route will take participants through the south end of Sarnia, to Germain Park, across Maria Street, and then to Centennial Park.