FAIRFIELD, CT — The Fairfield Safe Streets Alliance will host an e-bike safety panel Thursday, Oct. 1, bringing together first responders, physicians, safety professionals and local cycling experts to discuss safe riding and sharing the road.
The event is intended for e-bike riders of all ages, including children and teens, as well as parents, drivers and others who share Fairfield's roads and sidewalks with bicyclists and e-bike riders.
"E-bikes have become an increasingly popular way to get around town, especially amongst our teens, many of whom may not understand the rules of the road," First Selectperson Christine Vitale said. "We continue to hear from residents who are concerned about the safety not only of the riders but of others on the road. There is a shared responsibility to make sure everyone understands how to ride, drive and interact safely on our roads."
Vitale said the event will give residents an opportunity to ask questions and hear from professionals about e-bike and roadway safety.
"This community conversation is an opportunity to ask questions, learn from professionals who are on the front line of consequences when safety rules aren't followed, and get practical information that families can use to keep themselves and their children safe," Vitale said.
Fairfield police Sgt. Michael Komm and emergency room physician Dr. Douglas Latham are scheduled to discuss roadway safety, injury prevention and steps riders and drivers can take to help prevent crashes and serious injuries.
Their presentations will be followed by a discussion with bicyclist and crash survivor John Bysiewicz and his wife, Jenny Glass. The couple will discuss their experience with a bicycle crash and what they want riders, drivers and families to know about bicycle safety.
A public question-and-answer session will follow the panel.
Attendees will also be able to visit informational tables and speak with representatives from the Fairfield Police Department, Fairfield Fire Department, Fairfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee, Bridgeport Hospital Injury Prevention Team, Pediatric Healthcare Associates, Cycle Dynamics and Fairfield Health Department.
The town is encouraging residents to attend whether they currently ride an e-bike, are considering buying one, have children or teenagers who ride, or want information about sharing the road safely.
The event, "E-Bikes, Safe Streets and Shared Responsibility: A Community Conversation," is scheduled for 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, at Fairfield Ludlowe High School, 785 Unquowa Road.
Admission is free and open to the public.
According to the announcement, the campaign is supported by a grant from the Connecticut Metropolitan Council of Governments, or MetroCOG, and sponsors, and no taxpayer dollars have been used.
About the Fairfield Safe Streets Alliance
The Fairfield Safe Streets Alliance is a Town of Fairfield coalition that includes representatives from the Police and Fire Departments, the Health Department, Fairfield Public Schools, Fairfield Public Library, the First Selectperson's Office, Fairfield Social Services, and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, all working together to encourage safer use of Fairfield roadways. The Alliance's goal is keeping Fairfield roads safe for all residents, whether they're driving, biking, walking, or riding a scooter. More information can be found here.
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