Under the warm glow of Kettering City Hall, a sense of community spirit filled the air as Kendall Draeger, chair of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), stepped forward to accept a proclamation recognizing the city’s commitment to enhancing walking and biking opportunities. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as Draeger expressed gratitude on behalf of BPAC and Cycle Kettering for the city’s ongoing support.

Draeger highlighted the committee's mission to encourage more residents to embrace walking and cycling as viable modes of transportation. He noted that BPAC maintains a list of recommendations for future improvements, aiming to make Kettering a more pedestrian-friendly city. The partnership between Cycle Kettering and the Parks and Recreation Department was also a focal point of the discussion, with Draeger mentioning their successful monthly community rides and the recent Celebrate the Trails event, which saw participation from city officials, including the mayor and city manager.

In a nod to inclusivity, Draeger shared that Cycle Kettering has reintroduced the bicycle cycle paths group in collaboration with the Lathrop Senior Center. This initiative, which features weekly Wednesday morning rides along the regional trail system, has already attracted over 40 participants since its restart last month, showcasing a growing interest in community cycling activities.

As the meeting progressed, the commitment to improving Kettering’s infrastructure for walking and biking was clear. Draeger concluded with optimism, expressing appreciation for the city’s investments and looking forward to further enhancements that would benefit all residents. The evening underscored a collective vision for a healthier, more connected community, where walking and cycling are not just encouraged but celebrated.