Cambridge Police Department Gears Up for Safety in Gear Campaign

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., April 30, 2014 – With warmer temperatures in Cambridge here to stay for the foreseeable future, the Cambridge Police Department expects an increase of pedestrians and bicyclists on the roadways. In order to provide bicyclists with a safe and enjoyable experience, the Cambridge Police Department will be launching a concentrated, multi-phased bike safety initiative in May in collaboration with City departments and local businesses.  “Safety in Gear” will focus on bike safety awareness throughout May. The overall objective of the initiative is to increase the safety of all pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers.

May – National Bike Safety Month
Over the course of May, which is National Bike Safety Month, the Cambridge Police Department will be partnering with multiple organizations to increase bike safety awareness.  Cambridge Police bike officers and its Community Relations Unit will be stationed at highly trafficked areas in the city and will provide giveaways, fliers with bike safety tips and information related to bike laws to all attendees.

*At the May 27th event, bike tune-ups will be available for any interested riders free of charge.

Electronic sign boards will also be stationed in Inman Square, Central Square and on Massachusetts Avenue throughout May with tips and information specific to bike safety. 

On-Bike Training & Bike Rides 
There are a number of bike rides and training-related activities taking place in May that the Cambridge Police will be involved with, all of which residents are highly encouraged to participate in:  

• A free on-bike training, which is geared for new bike riders and covers the basics of riding a bike, will take place on Saturday, May 10 at 2 p.m. at the Alewife T Station Bike Cage. 
• There will be two lunchtime bike rides in the City of Cambridge: Wednesday, May 14 starting at Vellucci Plaza and Wednesday, May 28 beginning at 6^th and Binney.
• On Saturday, May 17 at 10 a.m., there will be a bike tour of Cambridge starting and ending at the Cambridge Public Library. Cambridge Police bike officers and command staff will be among those joining participating riders and will be available to address questions and concerns specific to bike safety.

Bike-Related Content on CPD Social Media
The Cambridge Police Department’s YouTube channel features a Public Service Announcement on Pedestrian Safety as it relates to bicyclists and motorists. The Cambridge Police is also planning on unveiling a new Public Service Announcement around bike safety in conjunction with MIT.  

Lastly, as a way to reunite owners with their lost or stolen bikes, the Cambridge Police will be posting photos of bikes stored at its properties unit. To help an owner reunite with their bike, follow the Cambridge Police on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.