May 3, 2023: Bike and Roll to School Day

WHEREAS, on May 3, 2023, thousands of students across Michigan will participate in Bike and Roll to School Day, a nationwide celebration of biking, health, and alternative modes of transportation that encourages children to safely bike and roll to school; and,

WHEREAS, May is National Bike Month, which includes National Bike to Work Week from May 15 – 21, 2023; and National Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 19, 2023. In conjunction with these designations, schools across Michigan work to encourage and educate students to be lifelong bicyclists and safe road users; and,

WHEREAS, biking to school, work, and for leisure has a positive impact on health, wellness, navigation, and the environment. In general, students are healthier and more attentive, traffic is less congested, and busing costs are reduced in schools that continually participate in Safe Routes to School programs; and,

WHEREAS, as required by law, it is essential for motorists to always respect bicyclists and safely share the road by giving them at least three feet of room when passing bicycles, making Michigan roadways safe for everyone who uses them; and,

WHEREAS, Bike and Roll to School Day is supported by the Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan Fitness Foundation, event partner nonprofits, community organizations, and school districts statewide as a way to empower communities to make active commutes to school a safe, appealing, and preferred choice for families;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 3, 2023, as Bike and Roll to School Day in Michigan.