Ryan Harris announces Santa Fe's Bike to School Day and family bike fiesta plans

The Santa Fe City Council meeting on April 10, 2025, highlighted the exciting developments in the Safe Routes to School program, spearheaded by coordinator Ryan Harris. With federal funding secured for the next couple of years, the initiative aims to encourage children to walk or bike to school, promoting healthier lifestyles and safer routes.

Harris reported that all 11 participating schools have successfully launched their weekly morning walk and roll programs, attracting impressive turnouts of 20 to 25 kids each week. The program also includes bike rodeos, which have already seen 250 pre-K to first graders honing their biking skills on balance bikes. The goal is to expand this initiative, allowing more schools to participate and ultimately increasing the number of children who can ride bikes confidently.

A key event on the horizon is the Family Bike Fiesta scheduled for May 7 at Aspen Community Magnet School. This district-wide celebration will feature a two-mile bike parade, bike skill workshops, free bike repairs, and performances, creating a festive atmosphere for families. Harris extended an invitation to the council members, encouraging them to volunteer and support the event.

In addition to the Safe Routes to School update, Bike Santa Fe's Aria provided insights into the upcoming Idaho stop law, which will take effect in July. The organization is focused on educating the public, including police officers and drivers, about this new regulation. They are also gearing up for a summer full of biking events, starting with the annual bike swap on April 27, and are working on improving bike infrastructure throughout the city.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing biking safety and accessibility, with plans for more bike racks and protected bike lanes in the works. As these initiatives unfold, Santa Fe is poised to become a more bike-friendly community, fostering a culture of active transportation among its residents.