Riders' Education classes instill confidence, autonomy

This June, Eugene offered a specialized summer camp designed to teach essential biking and busing skills to local youths, fostering both fun and independence.

These innovative classes were inspired by the 1Pass program, which offers children 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 youth 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.

"I know that when my kids became independent in their transportation it not only gave them freedom, but me too!" said Shane Rhodes, class instructor and Eugene Transportation Options program manager. "It's so inspiring to see the kids in this class grow in their abilities to navigate Eugene by bike and bus!

RidersEd was held over two days at both the Sheldon and Amazon Community Centers. These classes would not have been possible without the partnerships between Cascadia Mobility, Safe Routes to School, and the City of Eugene's Recreation and Transportation divisions.

The success of this year's RidersEd will hopefully lead to future expansion, allowing even more children to learn the skills needed to get around town safely and independently.