Authored By: The Circuit Trails | August 19, 2025

Summer initiative focuses on bike safety, maintenance, and road awareness for youth ages 12 and up

This August, the Lawrence Hopewell Trail (LHT) launched an innovative new partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Mercer County, introducing the “Spokes & Skills” program as part of the club’s summer programming. The cycling initiative provides comprehensive bicycle education to students aged 12 and older, combining safety instruction, hands-on maintenance training and real-world riding experience.

The program kicked off on Friday, Aug. 8, with participants gathering for the first of four specialized sessions. Each weekly meeting focuses on a different aspect of cycling, providing a well-rounded foundation for safe and confident riding.

“We’re excited to launch this partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Mercer County,” said David Sandahl, LHTC Board Chair. “This program represents our commitment to youth development and community safety while encouraging healthy, active lifestyles.”

Program Focus Areas

Each session highlights different skills and focus areas. The first two sessions were a GMTA-led session on general biking safety, including helmet usage and phone safety protocols, and a hands-on bike maintenance workshop led by experts from the Bike Exchange.

Still to come before the end of the month:

• Aug. 22: Head and brain safety presentation by Capital Health, featuring educational skull and brain props
• Aug. 29: Advanced road biking safety instruction from GMTA, covering traffic direction, bike lanes and traffic signal compliance

The program benefits from strong community partnerships, with support from the Greater Mercer Transportation Management Association (GMTA), Capital Health and the Bike Exchange. A dedicated team of volunteers will provide mentorship and assistance throughout the sessions.

“The visual and hands-on components of this program will give participants practical skills they can use immediately,” noted Claire Wille, LHTC Operations and Development Coordinator. “From proper helmet fitting to understanding traffic patterns, students will gain confidence and knowledge that extends far beyond the summer program.”

The initiative culminates with the LHT’s signature Full Moon Ride scheduled for September 6, offering Spokes & Skills participants an opportunity to share a unique experience. Students from the club will join hundreds of other riders for the annual full moon event.

For more information about the Spokes & Skills program or other Lawrence Hopewell Trail community initiatives, contact Claire Wille, 609-937-4075, claire@lhtrail.org