Are you looking forward to warmer weather? Would you like to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying a Maine spring morning?

It is time to break out the bike and join in celebration of National Bike month! Your Bath Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee invites you to participate in a couple of fun activities.

Look for the Pop-Up Bike Rack

Beginning on May 6 you will see a “pop-up” bike rack at the corner of Centre and Front Streets by the House of Logan. The “popup” or temporary bike rack would replace an existing parking space and could be used by several bicyclists, thereby encouraging a healthy and environmentally friendly alternative to cars. Science teacher Monica Wright and her students from Bath Middle School, who are studying climate change, will monitor and gather data on the bike rack.

The Bike/Ped Committee is excited to collaborate with the BMS students, and will use their results to improve Bath’s biking infrastructure.

Join our Community Ride on May 17th

During Bike to Work week, the Bike/Ped Committee will also sponsor a ride around the city with students from the Bath Middle School Riding for Focus Program and their teacher, Lawrence Kovacs. will. We will depart from the Bath YMCA at 7:00 am on Friday, May 17th and head to the BMS, do a loop around the city and finish at the temporary bike rack on Front St. Anyone wishing to participate should meet at the Bath YMCA at 7:00 am. Please wear a bike helmet and if you wish, bring money to purchase a snack and/or coffee at a downtown business.

Get Ready to Bike

If you haven’t had your bike out this spring here are some suggestions to make riding more enjoyable.

• Have your bike checked over at one of our local bike shops
• Always wear a properly fitting helmet
• Ride in the right most lane that goes with the direction traffic is flowing
• Obey all stop signs, traffic lights and and lane markings
• Look before you change lanes or signal to turn, signal your intention and proceed
• Be visible and predictable at all times, wear bright clothing and signal turns and stops

The Bath Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee is an advisory group, appointed by the city council, that strives to provide citizens of Bath with a safe and inviting walking and cycling environment. Enjoy being on your bike and be safe!

By Kevin Shute, Committee Chair