In a vibrant effort to promote active lifestyles and road safety, the Hudson Valley is setting a new standard for creative community projects. This summer, a collaboration between the Orange County Planning and Health Department, the Department of Small Interventions and the Orange County Creating Healthy Schools and Communities launched an interactive bicycle garden at Horizons-on-the-Hudson elementary school. Designed to teach students essential bicycle safety and road etiquette, the garden offers a hands-on, engaging environment that encourages physical activity.

The idea for this project was born in 2020, as part of a broader bicycle action plan aimed at mapping out safe cycling routes in Newburgh. The CHSC team funded the purchase of 30 bikes for the school, along with racks, safety gear, and equipment like mini traffic cones. They also introduced the A Walk Safe, Bike Safe Elementary School Physical Education Curriculum, developed by the New York Bicycle Coalition, which helps students understand the rules of the road and how to navigate alongside other bicyclists.

Local artist Ed Manner, along with apprentice Trevor Crotes-Lozado, brought the bicycle garden to life with vibrant artwork that inspires excitement for biking. Despite challenges with the road surface, they successfully adapted to create a stunning space. Complementing the garden are educational and informative banners by designer, Hael Stewart-Fisher, reminding students about bike maintenance and safety. With this effort, the hope is that this project will shift the culture around walking and biking to school, fostering confidence and a stronger bicycle culture in the community.

News Stories: Spectrum News One | HOH Elementary School | Hudson Valley Magazine | Orange County