KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Open Roads Bike Program will officially begin operations at its new home, 914 E. Vine Street, with a grand opening on Thursday, July 17. The opening ushers in a new chapter of youth-focused programming and community engagement for the non-profit community bike shop and youth development program.
Located in the former KalBlue site in the Edison Neighborhood, the custom-renovated space is designed to better serve local youth and cyclists of all ages.
“We’ve always believed that bikes are more than transportation; bikes are tools for growth, confidence, and connection,” said Isaac Green, Executive Director of Open Roads. “This new space reflects who we are and where we’re headed, creating opportunity through access and education, and building a community that pedals forward together.”
Since 2009, Open Roads has empowered Kalamazoo youth through programs like Earn-a-Bike, Fix-a-palooza, Open Shop, and youth apprenticeships, which provide leadership skills, job training, and social-emotional learning. The new facility allows for expanded hours, increased program capacity, and improved visibility for DIY repair services and retail bike offerings available to the broader public.
Effective July 17, Open Roads Bike Program will host “Open Shop” hours every Thursday and Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. Additional hours will be added as Open Roads’ capacity increases in the new space.
Thanks to a generous loan from the Kalamazoo Community Foundation and its Impact Investment Team, this move is an expansion of services and an investment in Kalamazoo’s future, Green said.
“Our goal is to be a place where every young person can find purpose, where volunteers and partners come together to share skills, and where the community has a full-service bike shop rooted in equity and accessibility,” Green added. “We’re excited to open our doors and keep growing together.”
Community members, partners, and media are invited to attend a grand opening celebration on Thursday, July 17, from 2 to 5 p.m. Youth mechanics will offer guided tours and demonstrations at the event.
The new location serves as a hub for Open Roads’ signature programs, including Earn-a-Bike, Fix-a-palooza, and youth STEM and leadership initiatives. The larger space provides opportunities for deeper community engagement, partnerships, and hands-on learning experiences.
To learn more about Open Roads Bike Program, explore volunteer opportunities, or donate to support its mission, visit openroadsbike.org or follow @OpenRoadsKzoo on social media.
