NDOT NEWS — Many Nevada schoolchildren will take part in organized events to walk or bicycle to school on April 24, which has been proclaimed the fourth annual Nevada Moves Day by Governor Brian Sandoval.
Walking and bicycling to school events are planned for Clark, Washoe, Douglas, Lyon, Lincoln, Elko and other counties, with more than 110 schools across the state committing to participate in Nevada Moves Day. Children not taking part in an organized school event are encouraged to involve their family in safely walking or bicycling to school on April 24 and other days.
“Whether as part of an organized event or not, Nevada Moves Day is an opportunity to help children learn more about pedestrian and bicycling safety,” NDOT Bicycle, Pedestrian and Safe Routes to School Program Manager Bill Story explained. “And, whether it’s for Nevada Moves Day or part of a daily routine, physical activity at an early age, such as walking or bicycling, helps reduce heart disease, diabetes and other obesity-related illnesses. Plus, walking or biking to school can lessen up to 25 percent of morning rush hour traffic that results from children being driven to school.”
During Nevada Moves Day and every day, drivers should watch for children walking and bicycling to school and be mindful of reduced speeds and varying school start times in school zones. Motorists should also only pass bicyclists when it is safe with at least three feet of space between the bicycle and vehicle and never overtake a vehicle that has stopped for pedestrians. Pedestrians and bicyclists should only cross streets when safe, and look both ways before and while crossing.
To learn about specific Nevada Moves Day events, contact Nevada Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School Coordinator Time Rowe at (775) 888-7357/[email protected] or find walking information at walknevada.com or saferoutesinfo.org.
