Roswell Council Gives Tentative OK to Major Cycling Event

The Roswell City Council has given approval in concept to a major cycling event and festival that could bring more than 1,000 riders to the city this fall. 

At a special called meeting on Monday, the council voted 6-0 to tentatively approve the city's involvement in the Atlanta-Roswell Giro d'Italia Gran Fondo Bicycling Ride and Festival in October. 

The measure still needs final approval, including funding and contract specifics.

The event, which would take place Oct. 18-19, is being organized by the Southern Bike League, which sought to gauge the city's interest now to move ahead with planning and logistics. Bike Roswell also will serve as a partner.

The Gran Fondo concept includes a European tour-style simulated race, smaller races, a full-fledged festival for cycling enthusiasts and a gala dinner.

In October, Roswell was named just one of six cities in Georgia on a bike-friendly list by the League of American Bicyclists.

But while events like the Historic Roswell Criterium have enhanced the city's reputation in the cycling community, the Gran Fondo would be staged on a very different level.

The city could be asked to spend $15,000, excluding police and other public safety costs, and may hire a special coordinator just for the event.