Healthy Ride is gearing up to bring bikes to Homewood, the Hill District and Larimer. But before we move into the neighborhood, we wanted to meet some of our neighbors. Some just started cycling. Others grew up riding bikes with friends and family. Each person took us on a trip through their communities, pointing out where it’s the best place to live, work, play and ride.

Up first, Diamonte Walker, a Hill District native and resident, who are currently serves as the MWBE Program Officer at the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

How long have you lived in the Hill District?

I’ve lived in the Hill District my entire life. My family migrated here from the South in the late 19th century. We love it so much that we’ve been here ever since.

What’s your fondest memory about growing up in the Hill District?

My fondest memory growing up in the Hill would have to be my long walks to Milliones Middle School with friends. It gave me an opportunity to explore the neighborhood beyond where I lived. My favorite biking memory would have to be when my brother, who was 4-years-old at the time, learned to ride a 10 speed bike before I did. It was amazing to see such a little person take charge of such a big bike. He’s no longer with us, but he loved biking so it brings back memories of him.

My other favorite biking memory would have to be the time when I was about 12-years-old, I decided to be brave and ride my bike all the way down Bedford Avenue. My brakes gave out halfway down, so I turned onto Webster Avenue, and by some miracle, my bike came to a screeching, but safe halt at the corner of Webster and Kirkpatrick. It was thrilling and terrifying at the same time! A neighbor was driving alongside me and kept watch over me to make sure I was OK, since I was going so fast. That’s what I love this neighborhood is, we look out for each other.

What year did you start cycling?

I’ve been biking since I was about 10. My little brother taught me after he laughed at me for falling down so many times.

How long have you used the bike share program, and how do you use the bikes?

I just started using the bike share program. I am more of a sidewalk cyclist, and unfortunately the Hill District’s sidewalks are not always amenable to a smooth ride. Let’s fix that! So, my biking adventures are mostly around the Robert E. Williams Memorial Park, the reservoir or the Eliza Furnace trail.

What are your favorite places to bike in the Hill District and Larimer, and why?

My favorite place to bike is the reservoir at the Robert E. Williams park or some of our amazing trails. It’s a great way to stay fit and lower your carbon footprint.

Complete the following sentence. I love Healthy Ride’s bike share program, because…

It gives people additional eco-friendly mobility options within their neighborhood. I look forward to hearing what Hill District residents feel about the bike station expansion.

With seven stations planned for neighborhoods in the Hill District, Healthy Ride has been attending neighborhood meetings, hosting pop-up feedback stations, and tabling at community events throughout the Spring and Summer and we’ve adjusted many of the locations to fit the needs of local residents. And we’re not done yet! Check out our Expansion Page to provide feedback and see upcoming public meetings and check out our Facebook Page for upcoming Group Rides!