With the start of the 2023-24 school year, Aliso Niguel High School faculty has added multiple new bike racks to encourage students to bike to school and park their bikes on campus. Students have noticed less traffic in the parking lot, while bikers feel independent, and less of a need to get their driver’s licenses.
One of the most important aspects of school is knowing one’s mode of transportation. Whether it be walking, biking, driving, or even carpooling, students typically have a set routine. Aliso Niguel High School has seen an increase in the number of students biking to and from school this year and have implemented, and reimplemented, some policies to ensure students safety.
Asal Flodius (12) says, “I personally love biking to school because it gives me the freedom I like, and my parents don’t have to worry about picking me up since they have their own obligations. Getting the permit was worth it.”
Due to the many electric bikes and the concerns for safety, ANHS created a plan to educate students about the California Vehicle Codes associated with riding these bikes and the expectations on campus. Students who ride a bicycle, or Ebike, were obligated to complete an online application process to have their bike allowed on campus.
After this process, students were given a sticker on the first day of school that is visibly placed on their bikes; this process has no cost. Students had to have completed these steps by Sept. 1.
In order for students to park their bike on campus, students must have this sticker visible. The application also holds them accountable for walking bikes on campus, locking them using personal locks, wearing helmets and reducing reckless driving.
Additionally, students have noticed a difference in the amount of traffic as compared to last year.
Mariam Taheri (12) says, “I’ve realized that compared to last year, there’s less traffic in the morning and afternoon. There are also lots of empty parking spots throughout the day which I never used to see.”
Cycling has become more popular within recent years due to it being eco friendly and significantly less harmful than cars. Parents encourage their children to bike to school, get exercise and take in the fresh air.
Additionally electric bikes have soared in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic. According to Aventon Electric Bikes, its website sales increased 301% in the Los Angeles area and 235% in the San Diego area in 2021. There are also new tax incentives, including the E-BIKE Act that would provide a tax credit of up to $1,500 to anyone who buys an e-bike.
Many people found themselves bored and looking for a new hobby; many turned to outdoor activities such as biking to pass the time. Students not only found riding to be fun, but extremely practical as well.
Students feel a sense of independence and responsibility when biking to school. The increase in student bikers, particularly this year, has reduced a significant amount of traffic within the parking lot and ensures that students will have a wonderful year.
