(WWJ) -- Strap on a helmet and jump on your bike, Michigan. Wednesday is Bike to School Day.
Michigan students all across the state, along with their parents, teachers and community leaders, will join other students from around the country on May 5 to ride their bikes to school, as organizers emphasize the benefits of cycling.
The event is organized by the Michigan Fitness Foundation (MFF) Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program staff, in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Transportation.
SRTS is an international movement and federal program that aims to make it safe, convenient and fun for children -- including those with disabilities -- to bike and walk to school. SRTS initiatives also help ease traffic jams and air pollution, unite neighborhoods and contribute to students’ readiness to learn in school.
"When students have safe routes to travel, they can incorporate more physical activity into their daily routine,” said Mike Kapp, administrator, MDOT Office of Economic Development, per a press release. "By having a day dedicated to biking to school, we can show families what's possible in their community."
The program works with schools, families, and communities across the state to enhance active transportation through various modes and SRTS program director Katie Alexander says it’s exciting to see the way schools are embracing Wednesday’s event to encourage healthy habits and build excitement around biking to school.
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“This event encourages students to get the daily physical activity they need and learn safe biking skill,” Alexander said.