Bicycle Safety Class For Children Scheduled For Saturday In Manhattan

MANHATTAN, IL — The Manhattan Police Department is scheduled to host a free bicycle safety class for children from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Village Hall parking lot, 260 Market Place.

On-site registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, according to a news release from the Village of Manhattan. Manhattan Safety Officer James Redlich will instruct the course.

This event will include two bicycle obstacle courses, a balance and break test, a group 1-mile bike ride through a nearby subdivision and end with refreshments. All children will receive a Bicycle Safety Certificate for their participation.

Lunch will be served after the event, and all participants can enter their name for a chance to win a brand new bike, courtesy of the event's sponsors — Walmart, Wes Kochel Towing and Lincoln Generating Facility — according to the release.

“This event will teach children bicycle safety, the importance of safety equipment, and bike safety awareness,” said Manhattan Police Chief Jeff Wold. “We encourage children ages 4-7 and any new bike riders 8 years and up who live in Manhattan to join this event. All children attending should be accompanied by an adult and parents are encouraged to bring their bikes and participate with their kids.”

Village Trustee Ron Adamski has been working on connecting the trail system in the Village and will be volunteering at the event.

"As our community grows, we want to have walking and bicycle paths to connect everyone, including getting our residents into our downtown area safely,” Adamski said.

For more information, contact Manhattan Police officer James Redlich at jredlich@villageofmanhattan.org or call the Manhattan Police Department at (815) 478-4408.