Gear up for bike month – May opens with Bike to School Day

DENVER – As a premier bicycling state, Colorado appreciates getting out on two wheels year-round. Ahead of Colorado Bike Month in June, many schools are preparing special celebrations. The Colorado Department of Transportation is encouraging schools to participate in Bike to School Day on Wednesday, May 4, to promote and practice bicycle, pedestrian, and road safety among classmates, families, and caregivers.

Bike to School Day is an opportunity to promote the many benefits of active transportation, as well as bicycle and road safety for all. It further highlights the importance of establishing safe routes to and from school and lays a foundation of sustainable active transportation practices. “Our goals are to promote bike safety, reinforce healthy habits, build community, and have FUN!” says Amy Kenreich, a parent and crossing guard at Lincoln Elementary in Denver, and organizer of Bike Rodeos at the school in honor of the day.

Organizers are encouraged to register their school at walkbiketoschool.org as a way of tracking participation and showing support for active, healthy, safe transportation. Registrations also assist Colorado’s ranking among other participating states.

Responding to community feedback on desired materials, CDOT is providing Bike to School Day stickers in English and Spanish on a first-come, first-serve basis. Additional resources and ideas, including downloadable posters in English and Spanish, are available on the CDOT’s Safe Routes to School website at codot.gov/programs/bikeped/safe-routes.