We don't actually know if you will be able to inflate your bike tires at Trinity River Revel this Sunday, but you can definitely bike to the party. Talk of the Trinity River tollroad has completely overshadowed the other exciting developments taking place along Dallas' measly water feature. Put talk of that expensive road behind you, because the only thing getting taxed this weekend are your quads when you bike to the party at Large Marge's new neighbor, the Continental Avenue Pedestrian bridge (let's just pick a nickname now. Howsabout Connie?).
Since early May, visitors to Trinity Groves could ignore the light barricades and walk onto the bridge. It's an expansive swath of concrete, brightly lit and embellished with patches of green space, a few pieces of playground equipment and large patches of metal that look like boat sails - the purpose of which appears to be providing shade. Just as Klyde Warren Park took inspiration from New York City's Bryant Park, here inspiration is clearly derived from the High Line - elevated railroad tracks converted into a walking path through the heart of Chelsea.
Unlike the High Line, Connie pedestrian-centric, it's also meant for bikers to cross the Trinity River. But this weekend, you'll want to bring your bike locks and plan to stick around for a while. The party starts at 7:30 a.m. with a 5K run and ends with a Moon in June 1930s Danceathon on Connie and a Riverlights Campfire Party in the Trinity River Basin below.
In addition to Connie, three additional amenities open in West Dallas this weekend: the Trinity Skyline Trail, the West Dallas Gateway Plaza, and the Sylvan Avenue Bridge. It might take a while for anyone to distinguish which paths of concrete are which amenity, but if you've been looking for a reason to pull the trigger on upgrading your bike, consider this your motivation.
For a full schedule of Sunday's events and parking information, visit trinityriverrevel.com.
