September 30, 2025

On September 25, 2025, EZ Ride celebrated the achievements of schools, municipalities, and businesses at its Annual Awards Luncheon, honoring those who have shown exceptional leadership in promoting safer, cleaner, and more efficient transportation initiatives.

Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Awardees

This year, the SRTS program recognized 224 award recipients, including 77 municipalities and 147 schools. Throughout the year, these partners collaborated with EZ Ride to host over 800 safety-focused events, reaching more than 44,000 participants across Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Passaic, and Union counties. Notably, 67% of awardees represented disadvantaged communities.

Activities ranged from safety presentations and community audits to bike skill classes, poster contests, and walk/bike-to-school days. Many communities have made SRTS activities a staple in their annual event schedules. SRTS recognition extends beyond accolades—top-tier awardees achieve Sustainable Jersey certification, qualify for mini-grants, and gain a stronger position when applying for infrastructure grants like Safe Routes to School and Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside via the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership (EVAL) Awardees

EZ Ride also recognized 120 worksites with Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership (EVAL) awards, celebrating their commitment to sustainable transportation. EVAL is a workplace EV charging certification program supported by the U.S. Department of Energy. The program assists employers in advancing clean transportation for employees with initiatives such as EV charging, carpooling, biking, public transit options, and incentives for sustainable commuting.

Honoring Legacy and Individual Excellence

A special moment at the luncheon honored Kent E. Hansen, a beloved EZ Ride Trustee and legal advisor whose wisdom and generosity helped guide the organization. The new Kent E. Hansen Friends of EZ Ride Award will annually recognize individuals who exemplify his spirit of kindness and service.

This year, William M. Yarzab, Senior Planner at the New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), received the inaugural Kent E. Hansen Friends of EZ Ride Award for his work advancing pedestrian and driver safety through the Street Smart NJ program. Michael L. Hornsby, Chief Project Development Officer at the NJ Board of Public Utilities, was also honored with the Champion for Change Award for his leadership in electric vehicle safety and first responder education.

Program Presentations and Inspiration

Attendees enjoyed presentations from Michael Vieira (Essex County Special Transportation Services), Mayor Shelley Brindle (Westfield Sustainability), and Martin Ceperley (SOMa Bike Bus co-founder), each providing inspiration and practical insights into advancing safe, sustainable, and innovative transportation solutions.

EZ Ride congratulates all award recipients and invites additional organizations to participate in future programs and recognition opportunities. To access presentation slides, videos, or event photographs, please visit our event page.

For more information about Safe Routes to School (SRTS), Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership (EVAL), or the awards process, contact [email protected] or call 201-939-4242, ext. 3.