Last Saturday, the Trenton Bike Exchange asked for used bikes and the community responded.

The Mercer County Park Commission and Mercer County Planning Department worked together to organize a bike drive to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County Bike Exchange. The joint effort hauled in 400 bikes, the largest and most successful collection in the Bike Exchange’s 12-year history.

Fran Lippincott, Mercer County Park senior ranger, with bicycles that were dropped off at the Park Commission’s Hunt House in response to the County’s bike drive. | Photo provided by Mercer County

“I thank the community for their enormous generosity in donating 400 bicycles for our bike drive for the Boys & Girls Clubs Bike Exchange,” said County Executive Brian M. Hughes. “I also thank our Park Commission and Planning Department for coordinating the effort.”

The Bike Exchange, located in the Capitol Plaza Shopping Center on Olden Avenue in Ewing, collects used bikes to refurbish and sell at a discounted rate. Its goal is to promote health and biking, and all proceeds go to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County.

The Park Commission set up the drive at three locations in Hopewell Township, West Windsor and Hamilton to make donating easier for people throughout the County.

Donors took advantage of the chance to clean out their sheds and garages, with the added benefit of supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs, a well-known and respected organization. Some sadly parted with bikes that had given them joy for decades. Others brought in bikes that their children had quickly outgrown. Donors also dropped off tires, air pumps and bicycle helmets — all products the Bike Exchange can use.

“This collaborative effort helps build a bigger community for those interested in learning how to ride a bike, or to obtain one at an affordable price,” said Park Commission Executive Director Aaron T. Watson. “We are thrilled with the turnout from the event and hope to see this effort expand more within our park system.”

The Bike Exchange is open Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. It is a volunteer-led establishment and will accept bikes in any condition for donation. For more information, visit: https://www.bgcmercer.org/bgc-bike-exchange.

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