Parents in Mexico City lead safe cycling push

Amid rising concerns for cyclist safety in Mexico, a group of parents in Mexico City has taken an inspiring initiative to promote cycling as a safe and viable mode of transportation for children.

Known as the "Bike Bus," the initiative began two years ago intending to safely escort children using bicycles to school.

Monica Martinez, a designer, mother, and one of the organizers of the Bike Bus, recounted how the project started: "When I noticed many families were arriving at my daughter's school by bike... I thought about organizing ourselves to come all together," she explained.

The group, which started with around 15 to 20 participants, has grown to include up to 110 people, with at least half being children of various ages riding their own bikes.

The Bike Bus operates a monthly route of approximately 3.5 kilometers, challenging yet rewarding for young cyclists. Themed rides coincide with school events, adding a festive element to the journey, creating a joyful and safe cycling experience for the children.

Martinez highlights the ongoing need for such organization due to safety concerns, like vehicles ignoring traffic signals or sharing the road improperly. Patino emphasized the challenges posed by drivers' lack of awareness about cycling laws.

In 2022, there were 104 cyclist fatalities in Mexico, according to the Undersecretariat of Prevention and Health Promotion.

Areli Carreon, a cycling activist and member of the Safe Mobility Coalition, praised the courage of parents participating in the Bike Bus. "It's heroic," she stated, acknowledging the cultural shift required to prioritize safe and equitable street use.