As the school year wraps up this Friday, Calvert Elementary students are already looking forward to an exciting new opportunity thanks to a community-driven initiative to promote healthy lifestyles and safe cycling habits. With support from the Paula Nye Memorial Grant, Calvert Elementary has launched a new bike program that not only teaches bike safety but also encourages students to embrace cycling as part of their everyday life.
The Paula Nye Memorial Grant, awarded through the Kentucky Bicycle and Bikeway Commission and funded by proceeds from the “Share the Road” license plates, is designed to support bicycle education, safety, and advocacy across the Commonwealth. Through this grant, Calvert Elementary acquired a fleet of bicycles to be used in educational programming and student recreation.
Throughout the school year, students have been learning how to safely ride and navigate roads from local cycling enthusiasts who volunteer their time to teach hands-on skills and build rider confidence. These lessons are more than classroom-based; students have access to the Moneymaker Trail, a 5-mile single-track trail located right in the heart of the city. Designed and built by Calvert City resident Steve Moneymaker, the trail is easily accessible from the school and offers a safe, exciting environment for young riders to explore and apply what they’ve learned.
Kendra Glenn, Principal of Calvert Elementary, praised the program’s impact on students:
“The bike program has opened up a whole new world for our students—not just learning how to ride, but how to ride safely and confidently. The access to the Moneymaker Trail and the instruction from our local bike enthusiasts have been incredible assets. We’re thrilled with the momentum and can’t wait to see where it takes us next school year.”
Another grassroots cycling initiative gaining momentum is the Calvert City Bike Bus, a parent-organized program where third to fifth-grade students ride to school together every Tuesday morning. Escorted by parents and community volunteers on bikes and golf carts, the group currently stops at three locations:
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6th & Cedar Street
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5th & Cedar Street
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7th & Juniper Street
Each week, nearly 20 students join the Bike Bus—fostering friendships, healthy habits, and road safety awareness. While not affiliated with Calvert Elementary or the City of Calvert City, the Bike Bus reflects the spirit of collaboration and community pride. Organizers are always seeking new volunteers to expand and sustain this impactful effort. Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out and get involved.
Mayor Gene Colburn, reflecting on his childhood in Calvert City, shared his enthusiasm for the growing bike culture:
“I grew up riding bikes all over Calvert City. Seeing our kids out there today—with the support of such passionate parents and community volunteers—shows a commitment not just to safety and wellness, but to each other. I’m proud of what we’re building here.”
With summer just around the corner and more kids eager to join in next fall, this program promises to continue shaping a more active and connected Calvert City.
