We are pleased to announce that Flamig Farm is now a distribution center for Simsbury Free Bike, a new bicycle-share program in town.
Residents and visitors age 18 and over can sign out the blue and yellow bikes (Simsbury High School team colors) lined up in front of the Eggroom. For a $10 refundable deposit, you get a bike for up to 24-hours, along with a helmet, basket, lock and map.
This is a great way to enjoy the back roads of Simsbury through Nov. 1 or ride to the Farmington Valley Greenway bike path – and it’s free!
September 2011 ... Just in time for fall foliage, Flamig Farm has become the second distribution center for Simsbury Free Bike, the new bike-share program in town.
Simsbury residents and visitors age 18 and over can borrow a bike from the farm and experience the beauty and color New England country roads, or hop on the Farmington Valley Greenway bike trail just a few miles away.
Flamig Farm is located at 7 Shingle Mill Road, West Simsbury, in the heart of rural landscapes and picturesque scenery.
"You can make a day of it," said Simsbury Free Bike Director Larry Linonis. "This is a working egg farm with hayrides, animals and lots of fall events. Why not get a little exercise after visiting and see Simsbury from a new vantage point? It's lovely to ride a bike on a cool, crisp afternoon."
With a $10 security deposit (cash or check) and identification, renters get a bicycle – painted blue and yellow to celebrate Simsbury High School sports teams – helmet, basket, lock and map, as well as information on bicycle safety and etiquette. Bikes must be used during daylight hours and on paved trails.
Renters do not need to participate in farm activities in order to borrow a bike.
Nevin Christensen, who owns Flamig Farm with his wife, Julie, said he is a strong supporter of any program that encourages energy conservation and personal wellness.
"Lending out bikes fits in perfectly with our eco-environmental mission," he said. "Someone riding a bike for recreation is one less person driving a car and using our limited resources."
Simsbury Free Bike is a non-profit, volunteer organization that started in July. The main bicycle distribution center is in front of Andy's Supermarket at 836 Hopmeadow Street.
Bikes at both Andy's and Flamig Farm will be available for rental until Nov. 1. The 2012 season will begin on May 1.
Simsbury Free Bike is funded by private and business donations and falls under the non-profit umbrella of the Children and Adult Mobility Project, a Simsbury-based organization that provides various means of mobility to adults and children with physical impairments.
Sponsors include: Farmington Valley Trails Council, The Bicycle Cellar, Cedar Hill Home Inspection, Mitchell Auto Group, Paine's Inc., The Simsbury Inn, Kane's Market, Harvest Café and Bakery, D.E. Jacobs Associates, Inc., and Sarah Byrnes Goldsmith.
