The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced on May 6 that it is celebrating National Bike Month by encouraging residents to ride their bicycles and explore their communities. The department highlighted several events and programs taking place throughout the month, including participation in National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on May 6 and Bike to Work Day on May 13.
National Bike Month aims to promote the benefits of bicycling and support safe, accessible transportation options for all residents. “National Bike Month highlights the benefits of bicycling and the importance of providing safe, accessible options for people who choose to walk, bike, or roll,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “By taking part in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day or Bike to Work Day, schools and businesses are helping create a culture of active, sustainable transportation statewide.”
The department has run a Safe Routes to School Program since 2005. Communities involved in this program have seen improvements in safety and accessibility for students. The CTDOT Safe Routes team now offers expanded bike and pedestrian safety trainings that include an on-bike component; these services can be requested online.
In addition to education initiatives, CTDOTâs Active Transportation Micro-Grant Program provides small grants for projects that encourage walking or biking. These grants have funded items such as bike racks and pop-up safety demonstrations designed to improve local infrastructure quickly while supporting longer-term changes.
CTDOT also invites cyclists participating during May to join the Drive Less Connecticut Challenge before May 31 by exploring more sustainable travel options through CTrides.com/DLC.
The agency supports safety through various initiatives such as work zone awareness campaigns while promoting community connectivity with grant programs across Connecticut according to the official website. Garrett Eucalitto serves as commissioner overseeing these policies.
