On February 12, 2025, Brookfield village officials made an exciting announcement that will enhance the upcoming third annual Cycle Brookfield Criterium, part of the popular Chicago Grit race series. This year, the event will feature a revised route to accommodate necessary street work, ensuring that the race continues smoothly in the face of urban development challenges. The changes not only reflect the village's commitment to hosting a top-tier cycling event but also demonstrate a proactive approach to community engagement and safety.
The new route will begin southwest on Burlington Avenue near Prairie Avenue, then sharply turn onto Southview Avenue, proceed north along Grove Avenue, and loop back to Burlington Avenue. This change introduces a more dynamic turn onto Southview Avenue, which is sharper than the previous turn from Lincoln Avenue to Grand Boulevard. Such adjustments are crucial for creating an exhilarating experience for both riders and spectators. Cyclists often thrive on challenging courses that test their skills and endurance, and this new configuration is designed to do just that.
One of the event's highlights will be the vendor expo, which will take place along Prairie Avenue inside the loop of the race route, a shift from its previous location at the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library. This strategic change positions vendors in a lively area where racegoers can easily access them, fostering community interactions and supporting local businesses. The village has made significant efforts to engage the community, with volunteers from Cycle Brookfield and local residents using Creekside Park as their home base for the event. This collaboration not only strengthens community bonds but also ensures that the event is well-staffed and organized.
Safety is a top priority for the Cycle Brookfield Criterium, and the new course is designed with this in mind. Planned pedestrian crossings at key intersections, such as Burlington and Prairie, Southview and Park, and Southview and Prairie, will facilitate safe movement for both participants and spectators. Additionally, the Brookfield Police Department is prepared to monitor the event with about 19 officers on patrol, particularly at the busy Prairie Avenue railroad crossing. This level of oversight is critical, especially in a lively urban environment where safety concerns can arise.
The event is scheduled for July 23, 2025, and promises an exciting lineup of races. The professional women's race will kick off at 5 PM, followed by the men's race at 6:45 PM. In a family-friendly twist, a fun ride is scheduled for 6:15 PM, allowing up to 300 riders to experience the thrill of the course that the pros will race on. This inclusive approach not only promotes cycling within the community but also inspires the next generation of cyclists to get involved in the sport.
Chris Valadez, president of Cycle Brookfield, expressed optimism about the new course, highlighting its potential to deliver a thrilling ride. The increased interest in criterium racing, reflected in the growing number of participants and spectators, underscores a vibrant cycling culture in the Chicago area. As criterium racing gains traction, it becomes a breeding ground for both amateur and professional talent, showcasing dynamic urban courses that push cyclists to their limits.
The approval of the new route also hints at the long-term impact of cycling events on local infrastructure. By implementing pedestrian crossings and efficient traffic control measures, Brookfield sets a precedent for future events, enhancing safety and accessibility. This approach not only ensures the success of the Criterium but also contributes to the broader goal of making the community more bike-friendly.
Moreover, the Cycle Brookfield Criterium exemplifies the growing trend of community engagement in cycling events. Local authorities, organizers, and volunteers work collaboratively to create an enjoyable experience for all, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie inherent in the cycling community. This cooperative effort is vital for the event's success and serves as an example of how cycling can unite diverse groups within a town.
As the event approaches, the excitement continues to build, and the community eagerly anticipates a day of thrilling races, family fun, and local engagement. The Cycle Brookfield Criterium is not just a race; it is a celebration of cycling, community spirit, and the shared passion for the sport that brings people together. With its new route and enhanced safety measures, this year's criterium promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved, reinforcing Brookfield's reputation as a hub for cycling enthusiasts.
The new route will begin southwest on Burlington Avenue near Prairie Avenue, then sharply turn onto Southview Avenue, proceed north along Grove Avenue, and loop back to Burlington Avenue. This change introduces a more dynamic turn onto Southview Avenue, which is sharper than the previous turn from Lincoln Avenue to Grand Boulevard. Such adjustments are crucial for creating an exhilarating experience for both riders and spectators. Cyclists often thrive on challenging courses that test their skills and endurance, and this new configuration is designed to do just that.
One of the event's highlights will be the vendor expo, which will take place along Prairie Avenue inside the loop of the race route, a shift from its previous location at the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library. This strategic change positions vendors in a lively area where racegoers can easily access them, fostering community interactions and supporting local businesses. The village has made significant efforts to engage the community, with volunteers from Cycle Brookfield and local residents using Creekside Park as their home base for the event. This collaboration not only strengthens community bonds but also ensures that the event is well-staffed and organized.
Safety is a top priority for the Cycle Brookfield Criterium, and the new course is designed with this in mind. Planned pedestrian crossings at key intersections, such as Burlington and Prairie, Southview and Park, and Southview and Prairie, will facilitate safe movement for both participants and spectators. Additionally, the Brookfield Police Department is prepared to monitor the event with about 19 officers on patrol, particularly at the busy Prairie Avenue railroad crossing. This level of oversight is critical, especially in a lively urban environment where safety concerns can arise.
The event is scheduled for July 23, 2025, and promises an exciting lineup of races. The professional women's race will kick off at 5 PM, followed by the men's race at 6:45 PM. In a family-friendly twist, a fun ride is scheduled for 6:15 PM, allowing up to 300 riders to experience the thrill of the course that the pros will race on. This inclusive approach not only promotes cycling within the community but also inspires the next generation of cyclists to get involved in the sport.
Chris Valadez, president of Cycle Brookfield, expressed optimism about the new course, highlighting its potential to deliver a thrilling ride. The increased interest in criterium racing, reflected in the growing number of participants and spectators, underscores a vibrant cycling culture in the Chicago area. As criterium racing gains traction, it becomes a breeding ground for both amateur and professional talent, showcasing dynamic urban courses that push cyclists to their limits.
The approval of the new route also hints at the long-term impact of cycling events on local infrastructure. By implementing pedestrian crossings and efficient traffic control measures, Brookfield sets a precedent for future events, enhancing safety and accessibility. This approach not only ensures the success of the Criterium but also contributes to the broader goal of making the community more bike-friendly.
Moreover, the Cycle Brookfield Criterium exemplifies the growing trend of community engagement in cycling events. Local authorities, organizers, and volunteers work collaboratively to create an enjoyable experience for all, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie inherent in the cycling community. This cooperative effort is vital for the event's success and serves as an example of how cycling can unite diverse groups within a town.
As the event approaches, the excitement continues to build, and the community eagerly anticipates a day of thrilling races, family fun, and local engagement. The Cycle Brookfield Criterium is not just a race; it is a celebration of cycling, community spirit, and the shared passion for the sport that brings people together. With its new route and enhanced safety measures, this year's criterium promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved, reinforcing Brookfield's reputation as a hub for cycling enthusiasts.
