May is National Bike Month and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is encouraging residents to go for a ride. Whether someone is an experienced rider or hasn’t biked in a while, May is a great time to head out in Connecticut by bike.
To celebrate National Bike Month, CTDOT is participating in National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. As of today, 50 schools across Connecticut are signed up. CTDOT is also participating in Bike to Work Week from May 13-19, 2024.
“Whether it’s for fun, exercise, or a means of travel, riding a bike is wonderful mode of sustainable transportation,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “I encourage schools to participate in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day and for businesses to encourage their employees to Bike to Work. Our Safe Routes to School team is here to help plan activities and ensure that people stay safe in their communities.”
“Bike, Walk and Roll to School Day is an excellent way to kick off National Bike Month here in Connecticut. Bike, Walk and Roll to School Day promotes physical activity and healthy habits, while also supporting safe, active transportation that reduces congestion around our schools,” said Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker. “I encourage districts and communities to work together to create safer and more accessible transportation routes and inspire students to engage in healthy and active lifestyles.”
In 2005, the CTDOT established a Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS). Since then, many communities participating in the SRTS Program have shown improved safety and accessibility for students with and without disabilities. CTDOT is excited to share the following updates from the SRTS Team:
Equity:
- An expansion of the program to high school as well as tribal agencies.
- Outreach efforts to ensure all students in grades K-12 to participate in safe, accessible, and sustainable active transportation.
Education:
- Updated curriculum resources and SRTS Team technical assistance for bicycle and pedestrian safety education at all grade levels.
- Launched a Vision Zero Program Distinction for Schools Award.
Encouragement:
- Increased participation in National Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day.
- Created a new Active Transportation Microgrants Program, available (up to $5,000) for schools, school districts, municipalities and non-profits.
Evaluation:
- Completed three Safe Routes to School Walk Audits with reports in ArcGIS StoryMaps.
- Safe Routes to School Action Plans available to communities that have previously participated in the walk audit program.
Those riding their bikes in May are also encouraged to sign up for the Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge. The annual event runs through May 31, 2024 and users are eligible to win prizes. For more information and to register, visit CTrides.com/DLC.
For more information on the Safe Routes to School Program, please visit ct.gov/SafeRoutes.