RidersEd classes yield confident youths on the go

In June, the City of Eugene, Cascadia Mobility and Willamalane offered a specialized summer camp designed to teach essential biking and busing skills to local youths, fostering both fun and independence.

Now in its second year, these innovative classes were inspired by the 1Pass program, which provides children with access to more than a dozen destinations, including City pools, bowling, disc golf, a trampoline park and more. The RidersEd course focused on skills that would help youths make the most of their 1Pass, such as route planning, bike safety skills, rules of the road, bus basics, and the tools they need to be safe, independent travelers.

Three separate RidersEd camps were held over four days at the Amazon Community Center, Washington Park Community Center and Willamalane Adult Activity Center--teaching more than 40 youths. The first two days of the camp taught students the basics of biking safely and using the bus respectfully. The next two days led students on expeditions to 1Pass locations via bus and bike, such as the trampoline park, science center, mini golf--and ice cream shops, of course! At the end of the class, students were awarded with a "Riders License" that highlights their new knowledge.

Research shows that youths who are able to travel independently have more agency, improved mental health and improved confidence in themselves. Teaching safe bike and bus skills is just one strategy among several that the City is using to make independent travel easier for youths. In addition to education like the RidersEd courses, the City is also investing in All Ages and Abilities bike infrastructure, such as separated paths and protected bike lanes.

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