The City Council of Vilanova i la Geltrú has announced that the passage of the Tour de France through the city will leave a legacy beyond the sporting event itself. The world's premier cycling race will serve as a catalyst to reinforce the commitment to cycling as a tool for sustainable mobility, health, education, and social cohesion.
A significant portion of the municipal resources, funded by a grant from the Barcelona Provincial Council, will be dedicated to improving the Vicenç Iturat Municipal Cycling Circuit. Upgrades already include cleaning and conditioning access routes, renovating landscaping, regulating dirt areas, and acquiring new sports equipment, such as 20 bicycles and protective helmets. Wall-mounted racks for bicycle parking, additional benches, and new waste bins have also been installed.
Currently, work is underway on painting and renewing the circuit's signage, as well as repairing the asphalt and perimeter fences. Furthermore, renovations are planned for the electrical cabinet, lighting improvements, updated information boards, installation of tables with benches, and enhancements to existing containers.
The project also includes the creation of a dedicated BTT (Mountain Bike) circuit, a new access point from the Rambla dels Països Catalans, and the addition of elements like a rocking seat and a metal ramp, along with new shaded areas. These improvements aim to transform the circuit into a more modern and functional facility for both training and competitive cycling.
The municipal circuit already hosts educational activities for primary and secondary school students, offering theoretical and practical training on riding, road safety, and bicycle maintenance. Concurrently, a cycling initiation program for women over 18 has been launched.
The culmination of these initiatives will be the inaugural 'Vilanova amb bicicleta' event on October 24th, a recreational and participatory day featuring a popular cycling ride open to all ages and a wide range of activities focused on sustainable mobility, road safety, physical activity, and local heritage.
