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West Jefferson launches Safe Rider Challenge to boost helmet use among e‑bike and scooter riders
Summary
Mayor Mark and public‑safety officials described a new Safe Rider Challenge that rewards helmet use and safe riding with stickers and coupons; the program is funded by a local foundation and builds on prior helmet distributions.
Mayor Mark described a new Safe Rider Challenge to encourage safe e‑bike and scooter riding and to strengthen positive interactions between officers and youth.
“Whitt’s Frozen Custard will launch a positive education based called Safe Ride program,” the mayor said, and he listed partners who have donated helmets and support. The mayor said the program is fully funded through the Lieutenant Freiburger Foundation and that officers will stop to congratulate youth observed riding safely and reward them with a coupon for a free kids' ice cream and a sticker.
Officials said the village and partners have already distributed more than 100 bicycle helmets to children, and the program will focus on education and positive reinforcement rather than enforcement while staff and the law director work on potential ordinance language related to safety and parental liability.
Council members and a committee member said the initiative also includes helmet stickers to display on helmets or scooters and an outreach component at community events.
