The Wheels on the Bike go Round ‘n Round
By Julie Mallis
Positive Spin had a great summer biking throughout the West and East Ends of the city. With a combined estimated total of 2,430 miles rode by staff and students, we sure have a lot to celebrate!
Our students worked through many challenges this summer. From the hardest hills in Pittsburgh, getting flat tires and popped chains, carrying their bikes up and down city steps, biking across bridges, Pittsburgh humidity and heat, and dealing with violence in a neighborhood that pushed us away from riding on certain streets; our youth sure are resilient, positive and strong!
We are proud of the effort and work our young people put in. Students worked together to brainstorm challenges they faced in their neighborhoods both as cyclists and pedestrians and as students and children. Students wrote thoughtful letters and poems, and created artwork to share their feedback with community stakeholders. They also dreamt up their dream bikes, streets and neighborhoods, reimagining infrastructure and community resources made accessible and catalytic for them.
“I want more biking clubs; bike with groups.” -Mayhim
“They should make sure that all people driving cars know all the signage, and which bike lanes are which.”
“Make more water fountains and bike repair stations.” – Camryn
We are thankful for our community partners who helped us to make this program possible and for providing extra opportunities for our youth. In no particular order: The Wheel Mill, Pittsburgh Major Taylor Cycling Club, Children’s Hospital, Pittsburgh Public Schools, APOST, MGR Youth Empowerment, St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Neighborhood Allies and PNC Park. If you would like to donate to our program or get involved, contact positivespin@bikepgh.org.
We’re taking over PNC Park on Tuesday, September 15th for Bike(PGH) to the Ballgame. Don’t miss the first-ever free BikePGH bike valet at the ballpark. Use promo code BIKE or the one provided to you by your bike shop.
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