Tina Chapa and her daughter, Jenny Petersen ride just about everywhere. "In recent years it's become more than recreational use. It's become a vehicle for us.
Fourteen months ago, Tina's car was hit outside their home and totaled. Instead of buying a new one, she says her family shifted gears. "We always opt for the easy thing. It's easy to get in the car, start it and drive. With a bike you really got to think things out."
Aside from owning a bike, Chapa and her daughter say planning ahead and being safe are the keys to successful cycling. "You're supposed to stay on the right side of the road, and always wear a helmet," says Jenny Peterson.
Jenny's learned a few tips along the way, she rides to school each day. "It really like wakes you up. By the time you get to school, you're awake."
Zachary Griffin the multi-modal coordinator at Bike Bakersfield says parents who worry about students riding safely to school just need to plan ahead. "Maybe take a Saturday beforehand, practice the route. They are surmountable obstacles. Those fears can be overcome."
Safe routes was developed to encourage cycling, and prompt local leaders to make roadways more bike-friendly, like new bike lanes and street lamps on North Chester Avenue.
But Wednesday was about creating a spark. "The spark that sets a fire in some young child's heart and motivates them to ride their bike." Griffin says there's strength in numbers.
