ASHEVILLE – Schools across western North Carolina will be playing a role on
Wednesday in the national celebration of Bike to School Day.
The local events are intended to remind the public about the importance of
bicycle safety, as well as the health and community benefits gained by
alternatives to driving a vehicle.
"Bike to School Day is a wonderful opportunity to bring schools, families and
communities together and reiterate the importance of safe bicycling,” said David
Howard, chief deputy secretary for the N.C. Department of Transportation. “While
it’s wonderful to celebrate today, drivers should remember every day to give
bicyclists at least four feet of space when passing, while bikers should always
wear a helmet."
Active Routes to School, a partnership project between the N.C. Department of
Transportation and the North Carolina Division of Public Health is intended to
make it easier for elementary and middle school students around the state to
safely bike and walk, both to and at school.
Among the more than 200 schools across North Carolina taking part on
Wednesday, there are 76 locations in 17 counties from Surry County to Swain
County.
For a list of locally participating schools, as well as their contact
information, visit the sites below.