July 2025

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the entire EZ Ride Bike & Pedestrian Program team for their outstanding effort and commitment. Their hard work and dedication played a pivotal role in helping more than 200 organizations win Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Recognition Awards. Thanks to the team’s tireless advocacy and on-the-ground support, 224 winners were recognized this year by the New Jersey Department of Transportation — including 147 schools and 77 municipalities. EZ Ride’s 224 winners accounted for 62.7 percent of the 357 awardees in the state.

Our Bike & Pedestrian team’s comprehensive approach included organizing nearly 800 events, such as safety presentations, poster contests, bike safety workshops, walk assessments, and walk-to-school days, which collectively reached over 44,000 students. These impactful initiatives have promoted safer walking and biking in Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Passaic, and Union counties.

Importantly, 67 percent—or 150—of this year’s 224 awardees are from disadvantaged communities, highlighting our steadfast commitment to equity and inclusivity. The recognition levels of this year’s winners are as follows:

• 64 Gold awardees
• 75 Silver awardees
• 48 Bronze level awardees
• 37 First Step Awardees (new to the program)

These awards not only recognize each organization’s dedication to safe walking and biking but also help them with Sustainable Jersey certification and strengthen applications for NJDOT infrastructure grants, such as TA Set Aside grants or federal Safe Routes grants.

The impact of our team’s work is felt and deeply appreciated by school communities. William Fleming, Principal of Hoover Elementary, Bergenfield, said, “The incredible support from the EZ Ride Bike & Pedestrian Program team has been instrumental in our Safe Routes to School success. Their dedication, guidance, and hands-on partnership empowered our students, staff, and families to prioritize safe and healthy travel. Winning the SRTS Recognition Award is a proud moment for Hoover School, and we share this achievement with the entire EZ Ride team.”

To celebrate these remarkable achievements, EZ Ride will host its Annual Recognition Luncheon on September 25th at the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth. All winners will be invited to attend and recognized for their valuable contributions to safer and healthier communities through active transportation. The full list of awardees can be found at saferoutesnj.org.

For additional information about the program or the recognition event, please email [email protected] or call 201-939-4242, option 3.