On Saturday, March 17, Pollard led Le Tour de J City, an eight-mile community bike ride through District J that began at Burnett Bayland Park and concluded at Freewheels Houston, a nonprofit that has been changing lives one bike at a time.
“Tour de J City was a chance for volunteers and riders, including a special guest Isiah Carey from Isiah Factor, to come out and see not just the dynamic specialties of J City, which is the most diverse area in America, but also the infrastructure our city provides for cyclists,” Pollard said. “Sometimes it’s important for me to get outside of my car, outside of my zone, and be able to put my feet on a pedal and drive myself—to really see the necessities for safety and infrastructure improvements.”
Located in District J’s Gulfton neighborhood, Freewheels Houston has spent the past ten years helping residents gain the freedom of mobility. The nonprofit has donated more than 3,000 refurbished bicycles to refugees, disabled veterans, and youth—many of whom rely on a bicycle as their only means of transportation.
“We believe people come to Houston because it is the city of opportunity,” said Bill Mintz, founder of Freewheels Houston. “But sometimes people need help to take advantage of that opportunity.”
Mintz noted that over 60% of the nonprofit’s recipients last year were refugees, many of whom live in or near Gulfton. “A bike means freedom—to get to school, run errands, and stay healthy,” he added.
Council Member Pollard echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how easy it is to overlook the value of a simple bike. “We take for granted what it means to just have a bicycle,” he said. “It’s not just about recreation—it’s about having a better quality of life.”
The event culminated in a celebration at Freewheels Houston in honor of their 10th anniversary and officially marked Freewheels Houston Day in the city. With strong turnout from the community and clear enthusiasm for expanding bike safety and accessibility, the ride sent a powerful message: cycling isn’t just a pastime—it’s a path to progress.
