Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, in partnership with Friends of The Legacy Trail (FLT), announced this week the start of the 2024 surrey ride program. This popular program offers a fun option for residents and visitors who are mobility-challenged or might otherwise be unable to enjoy the experience of riding on the trail. Sarasota County volunteers pedal the canopy-covered surrey and guide passengers on a free 45-minute ride. The rides begin at Laurel Park on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from Jan. 9 through April 10 with times available each day at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. Pre-registration is required by calling Central Reservations at 941-861-PARK (7275) or heading to sarasotacountyparks.com. Space is limited to four participants per ride, per time slot. Registrants must have the ability to climb up one step onto the surrey. Riders should wear sun protection, a light jacket on cooler days and sturdy walking shoes. Passengers meet inside the Sandra Sims Terry Community Center at Laurel Park, 509 Collins Road, Nokomis. All Sarasota County programs prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets. Scheduled riders will be notified if there is a cancellation due to weather. The surrey ride program has been well-received by passengers, and Sarasota County volunteer pedalers have benefited greatly from meeting and visiting with the riders, organizers say. The surrey was a donation by FLT to Sarasota County to promote The Legacy Trail and other county parks. The Legacy Trail is the regional backbone of a recreational and nature-based trail system connecting communities across Sarasota County. It offers several areas to stop, rest, learn about the trail's history or just enjoy the natural beauty. For more information, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 311 and ask for The Legacy Trail surrey rides or visit friendsofthelegacytrail.org or sarasotacountyparks.com.