Every Tuesday morning, a dedicated group of parents and bike enthusiasts in Calvert City trades the traditional school bus for a healthier and more engaging way to get kids to school – the Calvert City Bike Bus. This grassroots initiative is not affiliated with the city or school system. Still, it is driven by a shared commitment to promoting physical activity and creating positive experiences for children on their way to school.
Started by Calvert City resident Dustin Brown, the Bike Bus has grown to include 10–20 children each week. With parent volunteers leading and following the group – some riding bikes and others using golf carts to ensure safety – the Bike Bus has become a community favorite. What is a bike bus? A bike bus is a variation of the walking school bus. It provides students the opportunity to bike to and from school with an adult volunteer.
“This is the only day I don’t have to fight my child to get up for school – bike bus day,” shared one parent volunteer. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Kentucky Bicycle and Bikeways Commission heard about the Calvert Bike Bus and mailed bike lights for each of the participating kids and volunteers.
The Benefits of Biking
In 1969, nearly half of children (48%) biked or walked to school. Today, that number has dropped to just 10% in the United States. The decline in active transportation has coincided with rising concerns about childhood health and well-being. Research shows that children who engage in regular physical activity, such as biking, experience improved cognitive function, better academic performance, and enhanced physical health. The Calvert City Bike Bus fosters these benefits while also giving kids a chance to connect with their peers and build a sense of independence.
How IT WORKS
SCHEDULE:
The Bike Bus departs every Tuesday at 6:00 AM from Royal Park Subdivision, winds through Calvert City streets and Memorial Park, and arrives at Calvert City Elementary at 7:30 AM.
Safety measures:
Parent volunteers ride at the front and back of the group, on bikes or using golf carts to carry backpacks and assist with traffic control. Bike helmets are required.
PARTICIPATION
3rd – 5th Grade. Must be able to ride a bike without training wheels. Wear a well-fitted helmet. Some street biking experience.
GET INVOLVED
Parents interested in joining the Bike Bus can reach out via Facebook to connect with organizers. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or simply eager to help, there’s a role for everyone in making the Bike Bus a success.
A huge thank-you goes out to the volunteers who make this program possible each week. Your dedication is creating a healthier, more vibrant community for Calvert City’s next generation.
For more information or to get involved, email Dustin Brown at dustinb14@hotmail.com and follow along on the Calvert Bike Bus TikTok.
About the Calvert City Bike Bus:
The Calvert City Bike Bus is a parent-led initiative designed to promote active transportation to school. While not a city or school program, it reflects the values of community, health, and safety that Calvert City embraces.
