Four Wheels for Two: New Bike Program Takes School by Storm
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: April 12, 2012
NORMAL--Eighteen year old Spencer Smith never knew his decision to start biking to and from school would lead to this pack of cyclists that now rules the road.
"I realized, 'Hey, I live two miles away.' No need to waste gas sitting and waiting in line in traffic to get to school," said Smith.
The Normal Community High School senior got inspired to ride after watching movie about the popularity of biking in his geography class.
"Growth in smaller countries, third world countries and how they use the bicycle," said Smith.
That's when he realized that he too, can help the environment, get where he wants to go, and do it for a lot less cash.
"I drive a Jeep Commander which only gets 12.5 miles to the gallon. So it's definitely been an improvement on saving money," laughs Smith.
The positive effects of pedaling have also caught on with more students.
A group now travels together as part of the new "Bike to School Program."
"I wish it could be a little longer in the mornings so we could bike a little farther," said senior Mitch Nelson.
Nelson says now that more cyclists joined in the daily trek to school, being caught without a car doesn't seem so "un-cool."
"It's definitely enjoyable and it's not something to be embarrassed about. You don't look like you're a weirdo or whatever," said Nelson.
He admits, even when it means putting safety first.
"I actually have a red, white, and blue helmet so I'm totally in the pack of cool kids," laughs Nelson.
As the benefits of biking continue to outweigh time spent behind the wheel, these students say, they plan on making it a lifelong change.
The bike to school program recently received a $500 dollar donation from Normal's Constitution Trail to buy helmets and reflectors.
They hope a bike path will eventually be constructed near the school.
