ROCHESTER — An event request by the Charles River Wheelers to host a cycling event which rides through Rochester was approved by the Board of Selectmen despite safety concerns on Monday, Oct 1. 

The Selectmen decided to allow the Cranberry Harvest Century event, which takes place on Sunday, Oct. 7, to use a route on Rochester roads.

“There are multiple routes through the heart of cranberry country and lake country, and we’re expecting 700 participants,” said Chairman Greenwood Hartley III. “I am not excited about this event.” 

Hartley cautioned the board about the route because it will use some of Rochester’s most traveled roads and could pose a safety concern. Following the Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride, he was not enthusiastic about having two large cycling events on back-to-back weekends. 

Vice Chairman Paul Ciaburri agreed and said that some of the narrow roads could be dangerous for both bikers and drivers. 

Though he shared his peers’ concern for safety, Clerk Brad Morse suggested that the board approve the event request anyway.

“Absolutely it’s a concern, but at the same time they have rights to the road too,” said Morse. “We are seeing this more and more in our town because we are a mecca for bikers.”

The event request passed following some discussion, though Chairman Hartley opposed the decision. 

The Charles River Wheelers is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote cycling in New England. Sunday’s ride will be limited to 700 riders and takes place in parts of Rochester, Mattapoisett, and Wareham.