5/9/2012
ITD SR2S program partners promote Bike to School Day
BOISE – The first-ever National Bike to School Day takes place today, Wednesday May 9. Across the nation more than 700 schools in 49 states are taking part in this inaugural day.
Drivers across Idaho should be aware that many more bicyclists will be on local roads throughout the day as Safe Routes to School champions lead bike groups to schools in Moscow, Lewiston, Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, Idaho Falls, Boise, Nampa, Mountain Home, Caldwell, Meridian, Driggs, Wood River and Kimberly.
Events like one in Idaho Falls likely got the attention of morning drivers with about 300 fifth-grade students, and 50 volunteers bicycling to the following schools: Cloverdale, Rimrock, Mountain Valley, Woodland Hills and Iona Elementary.
Funding for the event is through the ITD Safe Routes to School program and supported by several local bike shops and the Bonneville Metropolitan Planning Organization. Every student who rides to school will wear a bike helmet, and have gone through bike safety skills training to demonstrate an understanding of rules of the road before setting out. Several organizations were involved, including the Ammon Fire Department, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and the Bonneville Metropolitan Planning Organization. Local mayors and state representatives also took part.
“Students who get more exercise do better at school, and more bicyclists means less traffic congestion during the morning commute, so it’s a win-win for everyone when kids can ride a bike to school safely,” said Jo O’Connor, ITD Safe Routes to School coordinator.
Drivers in the Treasure Valley should be aware that Bike to School Day events are taking place at the following Boise Schools: White Pine Elementary, Cynthia Mann, Highlands, Horizon, Riverside, Lowell Scott Middle School, Lake Hazel, Eagle Middle School and Lincoln Elementary in Caldwell.
O'Connor urged motorists to watch for increased bicycle and pedestrian activity through the remainder of the school year as weather improves.