#News: Annual “SMART Ride” may cause traffic slow downs

#News: Annual “SMART Ride” may cause traffic slow downs - A group of people riding on the back of a bicycle - Road Bike

The Annual “SMART Ride” bicycle fundraising event will be taking place this coming weekend. Approximately 450 bike riders will travel southbound from Miami to Key West beginning on November 14th at 6:30 a.m. They will travel as far as Hawk’s Cay the first day. They will then travel on November 15th from Hawk’s Cay to Key West, starting out at 7:30 a.m.

The riders will not be riding in a large group, but will be spread out over the planned route. They will be accompanied by support vehicles and will have “pit stops” set up every 13 – 20 miles along the route. The Sheriff’s Office has worked with event coordinators to keep the ride from disrupting traffic, however some slowdowns may occur. The ride coordinators have been instructed that support vehicles are NOT to slow down or block traffic at any time during the event.

The Sheriff’s Office recommends anyone planning to travel over the weekend plan a little extra time to make sure they get to their destination on time. Also, make sure if you do plan to drive on the highway to keep an eye out for the participating bike riders and to be careful while passing them.