Mangano proposes bike facilities at parks

In an effort to build on his “Fit Nassau” initiative, Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano has proposed bicycle facilities at two of Nassau’s major parks — Cedar Creek in Seaford and Eisenhower in East Meadow.

Wednesday, he issued a request for proposals, seeking bicycle rental concessions for each park.

“Recreational cycling has become increasingly more popular as it provides everyone with an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while taking part in a healthy activity,” he said in a statement. “Bike riding offers healthy and family-friendly fun .?.?. and biking along Nassau County’s paths and trailways is a great way to enhance the experience.”

The county is requesting proposals from individuals and businesses interested in managing and operating rental stations for bicycles, as well as the repair and sale of bicycle equipment at the two parks. The successful bidder may also suggest additional locations in the county parks system.

Prospective vendors must have a history of community involvement as well as extensive experience in the bicycle rental business, county officials said. The requested proposals must be received by Aug. 15, and the winner or winners will be announced Aug. 31.

Cedar Creek Park is adjacent to a 4.5-mile paved bike path that runs along the Wantagh State Parkway and ends at Ocean Parkway. The state has planned an additional 4.5-mile bike path along Ocean Parkway that would connect Wantagh Parkway and Captree State Park in the Town of Babylon.

Eisenhower Park, at 930 acres, is one of the largest public spaces in the metropolitan area — larger than Central Park. It has about 20 miles of paved bike paths.