The Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) is reaching out to families and their young cyclists to put the pedal to the metal on bicycle safety this summer. They'll be hosting June's Community Roundtable at the Langston Centre with a special focus on keeping kids safe on two wheels. According to a Johnson City press release, the roundtable will kick things into gear on Thursday, June 12 at 11:30 a.m., and is aimed at educating both parents and children about cycling safely.
As part of the event, families are encouraged to bring their children, along with their bikes and helmets, to "pick up their bikes and helmets, and practice smart riding habits" alongside officers from the JCPD Bike Team. The police department will first present a brief safety course tailored for the youngsters. Then, it's time to put those lessons to quickly apply, as kids will have the chance to ride with the officers in what promises to offer a blend of learning and fun, the city detailed in its announcement.
It's not just about the little ones—parents and caregivers will also glean valuable tips on how to ensure their kids stay safe while cycling. This practical approach allows community members to directly engage with law enforcement in an atmosphere that fosters education and relationship-building.
The JCPD emphasizes that helmets are a must for the riding portion of the event. "Kids of all ages are welcome to participate," as per the city's news release, but safety is a top priority, so make sure to strap on those helmets tightly. The event is free and open to the public, with no formal membership or appointments necessary to attend.
For those interested, the Community Roundtable will be taking place at the Langston Centre, located at 315 Elm St. Full details for the upcoming bicycle safety event and future Community Roundtables can be found on the city's website at Johnson City's official announcement.
