The Long Beach Safe Routes to School Program and the New York Coalition for Transportation Safety will co-sponsor a Bicycle Rodeo to teach children ages 5-12 the fundamentals of bicycle safety. The event will be held on Saturday, July 18 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the West School yard, located at 91 Maryland Ave.

The national Safe Routes to School program, which encourages students to walk or ride their bicycles to school, promotes physical activity and educates children on safety measures. The Long Beach School District participates in the program through the New York Coalition for Transportation Safety and became eligible by partnering in a grant with the City of Long Beach and Nassau County.

The district encourages families to take part in this effort to keep students safe on and off the roads and sidewalks. Now that summer is in full bloom and pedestrian, bicycle and automobile traffic has increased, it is critical for Long Beach’s youth to know and exercise safety precautions. The Bicycle Rodeo will cover careful biking procedures as well as skills to improve cycling abilities. Information and handouts will be provided.

Participants must come with a bicycle and helmet. Space is limited and accommodations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees can pre-register by calling 571-6808. In the event of rain, the event will be rescheduled.