Simply riding a bicycle to school can create a road to success and enjoyment.
That is the theme behind the newly created Bike Bus at the Van Holten Primary School.
This initiative of assembling the students and parents each Friday morning at a local swim club to pedal to school as a group was the brainstorm of Tremayne Reid, who has a daughter, Taylor, who is a 2nd Grade student at Van Holten.
He explained his mission.
“When I first thought about how my daughter, Taylor, gets to school every day, I realized there was an opportunity to make her journey safer, healthier, and more fun,” Mr. Reid said. “ I was then on social media and found a guy who has a national following @coachbalto and his story was similar. We seemed to have the same idea and passion, which inspired me to start a bike bus here in Bridgewater—a group of kids cycling together to school with adult supervision.”
This healthy and fun transportation activity will be launched on Friday morning, May 2. The students and families will meet at 8 a.m. at the Glen Ridge Swim Club on Talamini Road.
The Bike Bus will then take off and ride up Country Club Road, turn right on Stony Brook Road, and enter the school grounds through the walking path behind Van Holten.
Mr. Reid reported that Van Holten Principal George Rauh and the Bridgewater Police Department have pledged their support.
This group ride to Van Holten will take off every Friday morning until the end of the school year.
“One of my biggest motivations was to encourage physical activity. In today’s world, kids spend so much time sitting—whether in front of screens or in cars,’’ Mr. Reid said. “Cycling to school gives them a chance to get fresh air and exercise first thing in the morning, setting a positive tone for the day.”
His plan was not just focused on physical activity, but to enhance the social atmosphere of the school community.
“The Bike Bus isn’t just about transportation; it’s about connection. Riding together creates a sense of camaraderie among the kids and parents. It’s a way to build friendships, share stories, and support each other. Plus, it helps parents feel more connected to their children’s daily routine and the neighborhood,” he said.
Mr. Reid took into account providing a safe route to school.
“Walking or cycling alone can be risky for children, especially near busy roads like Country Club Road. By organizing a bike bus, we create a safer environment through group riding and adult supervision, also in partnership with the Bridgewater PD. This reduces worries for parents and helps kids develop confidence and road safety skills,” Mr. Reid reflected. “In the long term, a bike bus can also lead to reducing the number of cars around the school during drop-off and pick-up times. Fewer cars mean less traffic congestion, lower pollution, and a cleaner environment for our children to grow up in. It’s a small step toward a more sustainable future.”
His plan, he hopes, will help shape the maturity of the students.
“Finally, the Bike Bus encourages kids to be responsible and independent. They learn to manage their time, follow safety rules, and take care of their bikes. These are valuable life skills that will benefit them well beyond their school years,” Mr. Reid said. “Starting the bike bus has been a rewarding experience, and I hope it inspires other families to consider active, safe, and community-focused ways to get to school.
He concluded.
“Together, we can make our children’s journeys healthier, happier, and more connected.”
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