Ride in silence to honor victims of traffic violence on May 15, 2024

An international annual event, The Ride of Silence brings together community members who have been affected by traffic violence. Here in Pittsburgh, the ride is organized by the Western PA Bicycle Club with support from Women@Work Cycling Club and BikePGH.

On this day, bicyclists will take to the roads in a silent procession to honor bicyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although bicyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the public often isn’t aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of cyclists themselves.

BikePGH is glad to support this event every year because we believe that every person has the right to safely use our streets as pedestrians and bicyclists without fear of death or serious injury. This is the work that we are committed to every day, but traffic violence is still happening in our city. From unsafe street design to irresponsible driving, bicyclists are at risk every day, and loved ones have been lost.

Honoring and remembering the lives of our friends and family who have been hit by motorists is an important part of this day. We ask you to join us by sharing your story at the ceremony, riding in silence with us, and speaking up about the change we need to see to protect the lives of others.

Learn more about our advocacy to end road deaths in Pittsburgh.

Event Details:

When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 [Rain or Shine, except lightning will cancel]

Time: 6:45 pm announcements, 7:00 pm ride begins (please come early to sign a waiver)

Starting Location: Second Avenue Parking Plaza (parking is free after 5pm)

We’ll travel about 10 miles through Downtown Pittsburgh past the ghost bike memorial for James Mills, across the newly reopened Clemente Bridge to Allegheny Circle, to the Strip District, then back through Downtown. This year’s ride will highlight that we rely on quality biking infrastructure to get around safely.

The group will stay together, maintaining a slow, reflective pace. Riders will observe silence during the ride, talking only as necessary.

Questions? Contact Robin at womenatworkcyclingclub@gmail.com