Room for Every Bike

Room for Every Bike (by the Linden Bike Club)

1Every morning at Linden Elementary, the bike racks fill up long before the first bell rings. Students who arrive a little late must lean their bikes against the fence and hope for the best. We think this problem has a simple fix: our school should build more bike racks. We have three reasons.

2First, more racks would keep bikes safe. A bike that leans on a fence can slide and fall, and a fallen bike can block the walkway where students need to pass. Last month, our club counted twelve bikes leaning on the fence because every rack space was taken. Some of those bikes were knocked over before the first bell. With enough racks, every bike would have its own safe spot.

3Second, more racks would mean fewer cars near the school. Mr. Vega, our crossing guard, watches the front entrance every day. He has worked at our school for many years, so he knows the morning rush well. He says the line of cars is longest on the days when the racks are full, because some families decide to drive when they think there will be no place for a bike. Fewer cars at the front door would make the crosswalk safer for everyone.

4Third, riding a bike is good for students' health. Pedaling is exercise that makes legs and hearts stronger. A student who rides to school gets that exercise before the first bell even rings. Students who ride also get fresh air before class begins. Because more racks would let more students ride, more students would start the day with exercise.

5In short, more racks would keep bikes safe, cut down on traffic and help students stay healthy. We ask Principal Okoye and the school board to add enough racks for every bike at Linden Elementary. A few more racks would be a small change that helps the whole school. Then no bike will have to lean on the fence.