Peace Dale Bike to Work Day
It was a peaceful Spring morning recently in Peace Dale. The birds were singing, the sun was shining, and several tables were being set up with yummy food and bike/ped safety advertising swag. It was national Bike to Work Day.
I had many great conversations over the course of the morning. The children were attentive and listening to the message about waving and being noticed on the streets. Also, I met a woman who had a fascinating career working for the World Bank in D.C. I learned about good commuter routes between South County and East Greenwich (where I live). I learned from one commuter that there is a wind energy startup company in my own town that I didn’t know existed.
RIPTA’s Cristy Raposa was there too with awesome give-aways. A RIPTA bus was parked demonstrating the bike loading technique. Stedman’s Bike Shop set up a service station for any on the spot repairs. Some friendly South County police men enjoyed the morning as well.
But I was thrilled to see the kids that morning who were so excited to bike to school. Such energy and enthusiasm! Many were from a local girl scout troop – the troop leader, Rachel Dahl, organized the Bike to Work breakfast. They were able to decorate their bikes and win prizes. When it was time to bike to school they started out so fast (see left) it was hard to grab a picture!
I took a ride the length of the South County bike trail after the bikers rode away. I was impressed with many sections of it. I thought some about how best to make people safer at intersections with cars, but mostly I just thought about what a wonderful morning I was having and how lucky I was to be able to enjoy it on my bike.
Happy and safe biking everyone – Summer is coming!
Alice, RI Waves Program Coordinator